During high school, should I continue volunteering or get a job?

It's great that you are thinking ahead! Education certainly comes with a hefty price. That said, there are a number of ways to finance education, including scholarships and loans. So at this very early stage in your schooling, I'd suggest that making money should not be your sole focus.

Instead, I'd suggest pursuing experiences that resonate with you most. You will get much more out of any experience, volunteer or paid, if you are deeply engaged. A position to which you are genuinely committed can open up new previously unconsidered opportunities and better define your interests. Furthermore, it can help you build a well-rounded perspective on issues of interest to you, ultimately making you a more compelling applicant to colleges.

In short: focus on cultivating your interests for now!

Sounds like you are already volunteering (good for you) and continuing that can give you a wide variety of experiences, but you can also get a job and choose volunteering opportunities which are flexible.  I've found a variety of volunteer positions, like this one, which can be done whenever you have the time. There are also many one-time events where you can gain exposure to many different organizations and you could target those relating to your future career.

With every good wish -- and keep on volunteering!!

Mariya,

Why does it need to be one or the other?

Firstly, both working and volunteering give you experience. Secondly, why can't you find a part-time job doing something related to the work you find fulfilling and want to study later on?

Don't be like others who limit themselves in their choice of work in their teens. Every office needs help answering phones, making copies, keeping organized, and most likely, promoting themselves on social media. Since you've already done volunteering, you have a really good idea of what you can offer that is worth a paycheck.

You don't need to flip burgers, bag groceries, or waitress to make money because you're in high school. You can do something that is in line with your interests and future field of study. Be creative. Be bold. You can make it happen.

Great question! In my experience you don't really have to choose one over the other. You can often handle working and volunteering, as volunteering often is done in small time increments.

Currently I work a demanding full time job, work a part time job, and still find time to volunteer more than 250 hours a year. You may find that prospective employers are looking for both experience and volunteerism, showing that you are well rounded and able to handle managing your time effectively.

Hi Mariya,

This is a great question! I would suggest looking for volunteer opportunities that will also provide you with professional development opportunities. For example, if you are hoping to work in the medical field you might consider volunteering at your local hospital or nursing home. While it may be helpful to have a source of income now, it is possible that your experience while volunteering could lead you to a better scholarship or future university, or might introduce you to someone who will help you with your career.

I hope this is helpful!

Jamie

See if you can do both! Shadow 4 hours a week because the more experience the better and prioritize your time to get a job and start saving! It is so wonderful that at your age you are thinking about such a question but why does it have to be one or the other? It can be both so long as you are properly managing your time and not falling behind in school work! See if you can get a job in a doctor's office or in a health related field so it also works to your benefit!

I was always told while in high school that less is more in terms of resume. While you want to show that you are involved, it is important to show that you are passionate about one or a couple things versus having many little things. If you are passionate about volunteering and believe that you can make an impact on the organization, then do that. If you are passionate about the workplace and believe that you can benefit personally, then get a job. Either way, it is great that you are being proactive about preparing your resume!

With college entry becoming harder than ever, one of the biggest things universities are looking for are people who have done meaningful things in their community. I would say if you have to pick one, stay on the path as a volunteer, pick the hardest opportunities you can find and ones that have transferable, "job like" responsibilities.