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How and where can I apply?
How and where can I apply for a job? I am 15 and I am looking forward to working; to save up, help my parents out, etc.
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8 answers
Updated
Sonal’s Answer
Hi Nayeli,
First of all, congratulations on taking your first step towards your career.
The fact that you are already thinking about earning, saving, and helping your parents reflects the maturity, determination, and positive energy you carry. Whatever career you eventually choose, I am confident that with the same enthusiasm and commitment, you will do well. Wishing you all the very best for a bright future ahead.
Coming to your question about what job you should choose, I would suggest looking for something that meets your requirements while also being aligned with your interests and strengths.
Before you start exploring job opportunities, ask yourself:
1. What are my areas of interest?
Identify a few areas that genuinely interest you and explore opportunities related to them.
2. How much time can I realistically dedicate to a job without affecting my studies and health?
Create a schedule that allows you to work while continuing to prioritize your education, health, sleep, and personal time.
3. Is the job legally permitted for someone my age?
As Jean mentioned, make sure the work is legally allowed for your age and that you have all the necessary permissions and documents.
4. What will I learn from this job?
Do not focus only on how much you can earn. Think about the skills, experience, confidence, and exposure you can gain, and how these can contribute to your long-term career.
5. Take it one step at a time.
You do not need to figure out your entire career at 15. For now, your goal can simply be:
“Learn, grow, stay healthy, and earn in a way that supports my family while helping me build the future I want for myself.”
Your willingness to support your parents is something to be proud of. At the same time, remember that investing in your own education, skills, and future is also one of the best ways you can support your family in the long run.
First of all, congratulations on taking your first step towards your career.
The fact that you are already thinking about earning, saving, and helping your parents reflects the maturity, determination, and positive energy you carry. Whatever career you eventually choose, I am confident that with the same enthusiasm and commitment, you will do well. Wishing you all the very best for a bright future ahead.
Coming to your question about what job you should choose, I would suggest looking for something that meets your requirements while also being aligned with your interests and strengths.
Before you start exploring job opportunities, ask yourself:
1. What are my areas of interest?
Identify a few areas that genuinely interest you and explore opportunities related to them.
2. How much time can I realistically dedicate to a job without affecting my studies and health?
Create a schedule that allows you to work while continuing to prioritize your education, health, sleep, and personal time.
3. Is the job legally permitted for someone my age?
As Jean mentioned, make sure the work is legally allowed for your age and that you have all the necessary permissions and documents.
4. What will I learn from this job?
Do not focus only on how much you can earn. Think about the skills, experience, confidence, and exposure you can gain, and how these can contribute to your long-term career.
5. Take it one step at a time.
You do not need to figure out your entire career at 15. For now, your goal can simply be:
“Learn, grow, stay healthy, and earn in a way that supports my family while helping me build the future I want for myself.”
Your willingness to support your parents is something to be proud of. At the same time, remember that investing in your own education, skills, and future is also one of the best ways you can support your family in the long run.
Updated
Sandy’s Answer
Hi Nayeli, it's wonderful that you're eager to find a job! Share this with your friends and family so they can keep an ear out for any opportunities in your community. Online resources like Indeed.com or LinkedIn are also great places to look for jobs nearby. Make sure your resume is up-to-date, too. Wishing you the best of luck! - Sandy R
Updated
L’s Answer
Great question! It's awesome that you're being proactive. Wanting to get a job at 15 to help your parents and save money is really impressive. It shows maturity and a strong work ethic. Since labor laws limit your work hours to 3 hours on school days and 18 hours a week, look for places with flexible schedules. Local grocery stores, diners, movie theaters, or fast-food restaurant chains like Chick-fil-A and McDonald's are good places to start.
I also recommend you visit your school's guidance office to see if a work permit is required. Most jobs require a resume with contact info, so you should also create a simple resume. Even without work experience, you can include your GPA, any sports or clubs you participate in, or volunteer work. This helps show employers that you're responsible and dependable.
Instead of just applying online, take the initiative to visit local businesses. Dress nicely and go in during their quiet hours. Politely ask to speak with the manager and introduce yourself. This personal approach can make a great impression.
Good luck with your job search; you're already on the right path to success!
I also recommend you visit your school's guidance office to see if a work permit is required. Most jobs require a resume with contact info, so you should also create a simple resume. Even without work experience, you can include your GPA, any sports or clubs you participate in, or volunteer work. This helps show employers that you're responsible and dependable.
Instead of just applying online, take the initiative to visit local businesses. Dress nicely and go in during their quiet hours. Politely ask to speak with the manager and introduce yourself. This personal approach can make a great impression.
Good luck with your job search; you're already on the right path to success!
Updated
Jessica’s Answer
Hi! That is awesome that you are wanting to find a job. It sounds like this could give you some new opportunities, as well as help save money and give back to your family. Here are some things you could think about:
Where do I look? Do you know of anyone looking for some extra help - maybe babysitting, admin./office help, chores/tasks, etc. Maybe ask your parents to ask their friends/family if they are looking for someone to help out and provide some assistance with one of these areas.
What areas are your interested in? Maybe you want to look at areas you think you may be interested in after high school. For example, if you like animals and want to pursue vetrinary sciences you could look at animal shelters, vet offices or somewhere else that you can work with animals. High school is the time to build your resume for college so consider how this job would help you get into the college you are interested in.
Keep in mind your school work and health are important too! Don't over do it, as much as it sounds like you want to help.
Best of luck on this journey!
Where do I look? Do you know of anyone looking for some extra help - maybe babysitting, admin./office help, chores/tasks, etc. Maybe ask your parents to ask their friends/family if they are looking for someone to help out and provide some assistance with one of these areas.
What areas are your interested in? Maybe you want to look at areas you think you may be interested in after high school. For example, if you like animals and want to pursue vetrinary sciences you could look at animal shelters, vet offices or somewhere else that you can work with animals. High school is the time to build your resume for college so consider how this job would help you get into the college you are interested in.
Keep in mind your school work and health are important too! Don't over do it, as much as it sounds like you want to help.
Best of luck on this journey!
Updated
Evi’s Answer
Hi Nayeli!
Great question and fantastic job at being so proactive.
I would start with family friends / voicing this desire to your parents who may know where to connect you. Especially given your young age, I would prioritize opportunities where there is some sort of connection with the person. When I was 15 I told my dad I wanted to start working and then he mentioned it to my neighbor who let me be an assistant secretary at a doctor's office! Or they could even post in your community's Facebook page on your behalf. Definitely leverage your community and do something that is fun for you!
Good luck!
Great question and fantastic job at being so proactive.
I would start with family friends / voicing this desire to your parents who may know where to connect you. Especially given your young age, I would prioritize opportunities where there is some sort of connection with the person. When I was 15 I told my dad I wanted to start working and then he mentioned it to my neighbor who let me be an assistant secretary at a doctor's office! Or they could even post in your community's Facebook page on your behalf. Definitely leverage your community and do something that is fun for you!
Good luck!
Updated
Swetha’s Answer
Apply through the NYC Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP) and youth employment centers such as DYCD Youth Employment Program.
Look for age-appropriate jobs: retail, restaurants, tutoring, office/clerical work, camps, and recreation programs.
Ask your school guidance office about obtaining your working papers.
The NY State Department of Labor has a Job Bank for ages 14–24.
At 15, some jobs are legally off-limits, particularly factory work and jobs involving dangerous machinery.https://dol.ny.gov/node/6326
Look for age-appropriate jobs: retail, restaurants, tutoring, office/clerical work, camps, and recreation programs.
Ask your school guidance office about obtaining your working papers.
The NY State Department of Labor has a Job Bank for ages 14–24.
At 15, some jobs are legally off-limits, particularly factory work and jobs involving dangerous machinery.https://dol.ny.gov/node/6326
Updated
Kaitlyn’s Answer
It's great that you're ready to look for a job! I got my first job in high school, and it was a valuable experience. It helps you prepare for life after high school, whether you continue your education, start a career, or do something else.
Think about businesses nearby. Are there places where you'd be excited to work? It's important to know what you want to do and what you don't want to do. Make a list of your skills and interests, and another list of activities you would not want to work in. Your first job probably won't be your dream job, but it can teach you what you like and don't like in a job, helping you find a better fit in the future.
Think about businesses nearby. Are there places where you'd be excited to work? It's important to know what you want to do and what you don't want to do. Make a list of your skills and interests, and another list of activities you would not want to work in. Your first job probably won't be your dream job, but it can teach you what you like and don't like in a job, helping you find a better fit in the future.
Updated
Nicole’s Answer
Talk to people and let them know you are interested! Are there any trusted adults in your life with jobs that look interesting to you? If so, let them know you are looking to start working and ask if they have any ideas or recommendations. Many jobs out there are not even posted online, word of mouth is still a good wat to connect!