by Abbigail Hollins and William Hudgins

Teenagers today are stepping into the workforce earlier than ever, taking on part-time jobs in retail, food service, and internships. Many are driven by the desire to earn money for items like clothes, food, and saving for college. These jobs not only provide a paycheck but also valuable skills like teamwork and time management. 

They juggle work with school and social life, and they learn important lessons about responsibility and independence that will shape their future.

“I manage school and a job mainly by focusing on getting all my schoolwork done in school. I try to never have homework and stay on top of all work,” said senior Elliot Buschman.

Parents observe their teens growing more responsible, encouraging their children to get a job.

“Teenagers should get jobs to learn responsibility and to get them ready for the world after you are out of school,” said JHS parent Carl Divine.

As the summer approaches, many teens have begun seeking employment opportunities. The question they all find themselves asking is ¨Where should I apply?”. 

“ Fast food restaurants, maybe some retail stores, depending on how old you are, like in Home Depot you have to be 18. But retail and fast food are probably in teenages workforce,” said Lead Business Academy Teacher Michael Pepa.

As they navigate the application process many face unexpected challenges due to lack of knowledge of how to set up a resume or find  an application.

School counselor Shelby McCorkle said to find a business that is hiring and follow their application process.

Once hired, they quickly learn the importance of teamwork and communication.

“As soon as I got hired I learned that I must get along with my coworkers and respect them,” said freshman Kris Ortiz who works at Derby City Pizza.

When settled into their roles, the teens discover valuable lessons.

Buschman said having a job helps better the concept of time management.

“Getting a job helped me learn independence to hold myself accountable,” said freshman Brayden Maxie who works at Dominos.

Workers are usually expected to bring fresh energy to the team.

McCorkle said to always be confident in your skills and always be prepared for potential tasks.

People note possible challenges of scheduling multiple teenagers all at once. 

McCorkle said a technique businesses use is making a calendar based on when people aren’t available then schedule students around those times.  Businesses also have teenagers work on certain days, which makes it easier for teens to remember their schedule. 

Peers such as teachers give advice to potential teenagers going into the workforce.

 Math teacher Scott Lowe said the key to succeed in life is to always be on time, make decisions on your own, and do the right thing without being hounded.