8 answers
roxann
Student
Leander, Texas
1
Question
Asked
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should i be looking for a job right now?
i'm 15 and in 10th grade and i'm unsure if i should get a job. i want money for myself to spend , but i don't want to have a lot of stress on me with school and a job.
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8 answers
Andrew Vo Nguyen
Inside Sales Representative
10
Answers
Austin, Texas
Updated
Andrew Vo’s Answer
Hmmm well if you're unsure if you should get a job, ask yourself how badly do you want the money for yourself to spend? How soon do you want/need it? How are you currently doing in school and are you currently encumbered by your extracurriculars?
For example, working a job was hard because I also had extracurricular activities for school and a slight addiction to video games. If some of these are the case for you then maybe it's best to just focus on school.
If you're looking to work a side job to get money for something like a PS5 or even to spend on clothes, etc, then come to terms with what you'd be willing to sacrifice in terms of time and balance to make it happen.
At the end of the day though, you're still at an age where you can have the freedom to make this decision to see whether or not it's for you. If you can answer all the questions I asked earlier with ease, then why not?
You got this, keep your head up.
For example, working a job was hard because I also had extracurricular activities for school and a slight addiction to video games. If some of these are the case for you then maybe it's best to just focus on school.
If you're looking to work a side job to get money for something like a PS5 or even to spend on clothes, etc, then come to terms with what you'd be willing to sacrifice in terms of time and balance to make it happen.
At the end of the day though, you're still at an age where you can have the freedom to make this decision to see whether or not it's for you. If you can answer all the questions I asked earlier with ease, then why not?
You got this, keep your head up.
Josh Thias
IT
6
Answers
Austin, Texas
Updated
Josh’s Answer
Kudos to you for your thoughtful question about finding employment while in the 10th grade! This shows an admirable level of ambition and commitment, and you should be proud of your proactive approach.
I can relate to your situation, as I started my first job at the age of 15. Your forward-thinking mindset is something you should take pride in, and it will serve you well in the future.
As others have pointed out, it's crucial to evaluate your work-life balance. This is a skill that will be beneficial throughout your life, so the sooner you start, the better. As a high school student, your work opportunities will likely be in the evenings and on weekends. You might also consider seasonal jobs or summer-only positions, like lifeguarding, which is a popular choice in places like Texas.
If you're open to gaining practical experience without immediate financial gain, you might consider an unpaid internship or apprenticeship. While it might seem counterintuitive to work without pay, the long-term benefits can be substantial.
For instance, if you're interested in engineering or medicine, you could collaborate with your high school to find opportunities to shadow professionals in these fields. My own high school had a Medical Society that offered volunteering, hospital shadowing, research practice, and conference attendance. This kind of experience can give you a significant advantage over your peers, and it could lead to a paid internship in college and potentially a full-time job after graduation.
If you need immediate income, you can certainly find a job that fits your schedule and comfort level. This will provide you with valuable real-world experience that you can build upon in the future. Once you secure your first job (and you will!), you can leverage that experience for your next job, and so on.
It's important to be strategic in your approach, keeping an open mind and considering a wide range of opportunities. Cast a broad net and you'll be surprised at what you might discover. Your dedication and ambition are clear, and I have no doubt that you will succeed in whatever path you choose.
I can relate to your situation, as I started my first job at the age of 15. Your forward-thinking mindset is something you should take pride in, and it will serve you well in the future.
As others have pointed out, it's crucial to evaluate your work-life balance. This is a skill that will be beneficial throughout your life, so the sooner you start, the better. As a high school student, your work opportunities will likely be in the evenings and on weekends. You might also consider seasonal jobs or summer-only positions, like lifeguarding, which is a popular choice in places like Texas.
If you're open to gaining practical experience without immediate financial gain, you might consider an unpaid internship or apprenticeship. While it might seem counterintuitive to work without pay, the long-term benefits can be substantial.
For instance, if you're interested in engineering or medicine, you could collaborate with your high school to find opportunities to shadow professionals in these fields. My own high school had a Medical Society that offered volunteering, hospital shadowing, research practice, and conference attendance. This kind of experience can give you a significant advantage over your peers, and it could lead to a paid internship in college and potentially a full-time job after graduation.
If you need immediate income, you can certainly find a job that fits your schedule and comfort level. This will provide you with valuable real-world experience that you can build upon in the future. Once you secure your first job (and you will!), you can leverage that experience for your next job, and so on.
It's important to be strategic in your approach, keeping an open mind and considering a wide range of opportunities. Cast a broad net and you'll be surprised at what you might discover. Your dedication and ambition are clear, and I have no doubt that you will succeed in whatever path you choose.
Ken Walsh
Project Manager
35
Answers
Updated
Ken’s Answer
Hi Roxann,
This is a good thing to think about. I agree with Linda Cole's answer above. Having a job has many benefits. It teaches responsibility, teamwork and provides you the ability to learn new skills. It also shows people at the next level of what you are looking to do (college, working in a trade such as a construction worker, plumber, etc or something else) that you are not someone who sits around. Having a job also teaches you time management since you have to balance your time for school, work, family and friends.
This is a good thing to think about. I agree with Linda Cole's answer above. Having a job has many benefits. It teaches responsibility, teamwork and provides you the ability to learn new skills. It also shows people at the next level of what you are looking to do (college, working in a trade such as a construction worker, plumber, etc or something else) that you are not someone who sits around. Having a job also teaches you time management since you have to balance your time for school, work, family and friends.
Amalya Sukiasyan
ESOL teacher at Washington English Center
298
Answers
Yerevan
Updated
Amalya’s Answer
Hi Roxann,
It depends on your future goals. If you are going to attend a college once you graduate, it's better to think about the application requirements and get ready for it. In all cases, you should not work longer hours since your age doesn't allow it. It's a good idea to have a part-time or freelance job if you can offer different services based on your skills and abilities.
It depends on your future goals. If you are going to attend a college once you graduate, it's better to think about the application requirements and get ready for it. In all cases, you should not work longer hours since your age doesn't allow it. It's a good idea to have a part-time or freelance job if you can offer different services based on your skills and abilities.
Linda Cole
Sales Manager
13
Answers
Denver, Colorado
Updated
Linda’s Answer
Getting a part-time job offers benefits and challenges.. If you are just wanting some extra cash to spend on items you want, it might be a better option to ask your parents or other family members how you might be able to earn some extra money doing special projects around the house. If you are seeking a part-time job to explore career options or increase your social network, that would offer benefits beyond a few extra dollars to buy 'stuff'. Remember that having an outside job is a serious commitment.. your employer will expect you to be reliable... to be fully present during the time you are working - that means putting your device away, paying attention during training, etc. It can be a great experience for what it will be like when you join the working world and you will learn the types of work you enjoy and the types of work you don't particularly enjoy. You can build references to use for future jobs... and you can make new friends & social contacts. So I recommend you spend some time thinking about your motives for wanting to work outside the home.. and, if that is still your decision, be sure to think through the time you will have available for work and how you will get to & from the job location. Also, make sure you understand that the rate they will pay you will not be the actual amount of money you bring home, since there will be standard deductions; e.g., taxes, etc. When you work for your parents or family members, you will actually get the agreed-upon amount, without any deductions.. :-)
Nathaniel P. Creed
Administration/Technician
13
Answers
Tacoma, Washington
Updated
Nathaniel P.’s Answer
To find out your employment eligibility based on your age, simply search for your state's labor or workforce website.
Don't forget to explore your local area for potential internship opportunities. Schools, colleges, businesses, or firms might be looking for someone just like you.
Yes, it's true that navigating the American job markets can be challenging and sometimes demanding. But remember, each state has dedicated workforce or labor departments ready to assist residents in finding employment. There's always someone there who can help answer your queries.
If you're eager to gain some experience quickly, consider visiting local non-profit organizations or churches. Offer to help with errands or light maintenance tasks around their premises. This not only demonstrates your initiative, which is always a plus on a resume, but also showcases your time management and critical thinking skills. Keep going, you're on the right path!
Local work force/labor departments is a great start!
Local businesses might be open for part time hiring.
Relatives or friends might know a position that's right for you!
Don't forget to explore your local area for potential internship opportunities. Schools, colleges, businesses, or firms might be looking for someone just like you.
Yes, it's true that navigating the American job markets can be challenging and sometimes demanding. But remember, each state has dedicated workforce or labor departments ready to assist residents in finding employment. There's always someone there who can help answer your queries.
If you're eager to gain some experience quickly, consider visiting local non-profit organizations or churches. Offer to help with errands or light maintenance tasks around their premises. This not only demonstrates your initiative, which is always a plus on a resume, but also showcases your time management and critical thinking skills. Keep going, you're on the right path!
Nathaniel P. recommends the following next steps:
Jacob Taylor
Production Manager
523
Answers
Stafford, Virginia
Updated
Jacob’s Answer
Deciding whether to get a job at the age of 15 and in 10th grade is a personal choice that depends on your individual circumstances, goals, and priorities. Here are some factors to consider when making this decision:
**Pros of Getting a Job:**
1. **Financial Independence:** Having a job can provide you with your own source of income, allowing you to save, spend, or invest money as you see fit.
2. **Work Experience:** Part-time jobs can offer valuable work experience, teach you important skills, and provide insights into the working world.
3. **Time Management:** Balancing school and a job can help you develop strong time management and organizational skills.
**Cons of Getting a Job:**
1. **Academic Commitments:** It's important to prioritize your schoolwork. Ensure that a job won't interfere with your academic performance and commitments.
2. **Stress:** Juggling school and work can be challenging and may increase your stress levels if not managed well.
3. **Limited Free Time:** Working part-time can reduce your free time for extracurricular activities, hobbies, and relaxation.
Here are some steps to help you make an informed decision:
1. **Assess Your Academic Load:** Consider the demands of your current academic workload. If you have a heavy course load or challenging classes, it may be wise to prioritize your studies.
2. **Set Clear Goals:** Determine why you want a job and what you plan to do with the money you earn. Having clear financial goals can help you decide if a job is necessary at this time.
3. **Talk to Your Parents or Guardians:** Discuss your intentions with your parents or guardians. They can provide guidance, support, and insight into how a job may fit into your family's dynamics.
4. **Balance and Time Management:** If you decide to get a job, focus on effective time management. Create a schedule that allows you to allocate enough time for both work and school.
5. **Part-Time and Flexible Options:** Look for part-time job opportunities that offer flexible hours, so you can balance work and school more effectively.
6. **Consider Seasonal or Summer Jobs:** You might explore seasonal or summer job opportunities that won't interfere with your school year.
7. **Evaluate Your Stress Levels:** Continuously assess how well you're managing stress. If you find that your job is causing excessive stress and negatively impacting your schoolwork or well-being, it may be time to reconsider your employment.
Ultimately, the decision to get a job as a 15-year-old in 10th grade should align with your academic goals and personal circumstances. If you choose to work, focus on maintaining a healthy balance between school, work, and personal life to ensure your overall well-being and success.
**Pros of Getting a Job:**
1. **Financial Independence:** Having a job can provide you with your own source of income, allowing you to save, spend, or invest money as you see fit.
2. **Work Experience:** Part-time jobs can offer valuable work experience, teach you important skills, and provide insights into the working world.
3. **Time Management:** Balancing school and a job can help you develop strong time management and organizational skills.
**Cons of Getting a Job:**
1. **Academic Commitments:** It's important to prioritize your schoolwork. Ensure that a job won't interfere with your academic performance and commitments.
2. **Stress:** Juggling school and work can be challenging and may increase your stress levels if not managed well.
3. **Limited Free Time:** Working part-time can reduce your free time for extracurricular activities, hobbies, and relaxation.
Here are some steps to help you make an informed decision:
1. **Assess Your Academic Load:** Consider the demands of your current academic workload. If you have a heavy course load or challenging classes, it may be wise to prioritize your studies.
2. **Set Clear Goals:** Determine why you want a job and what you plan to do with the money you earn. Having clear financial goals can help you decide if a job is necessary at this time.
3. **Talk to Your Parents or Guardians:** Discuss your intentions with your parents or guardians. They can provide guidance, support, and insight into how a job may fit into your family's dynamics.
4. **Balance and Time Management:** If you decide to get a job, focus on effective time management. Create a schedule that allows you to allocate enough time for both work and school.
5. **Part-Time and Flexible Options:** Look for part-time job opportunities that offer flexible hours, so you can balance work and school more effectively.
6. **Consider Seasonal or Summer Jobs:** You might explore seasonal or summer job opportunities that won't interfere with your school year.
7. **Evaluate Your Stress Levels:** Continuously assess how well you're managing stress. If you find that your job is causing excessive stress and negatively impacting your schoolwork or well-being, it may be time to reconsider your employment.
Ultimately, the decision to get a job as a 15-year-old in 10th grade should align with your academic goals and personal circumstances. If you choose to work, focus on maintaining a healthy balance between school, work, and personal life to ensure your overall well-being and success.
Angela A
Bank Teller/ Banker
24
Answers
Yonkers, New York
Updated
Angela’s Answer
Hi Roxann! I do wonder if you ever got a job since posting this! Well, I suggest that you can look for a part-time job doing something that you're interested in. If you don't like it, you can always leave. Make sure that if you do end up getting a job that you put your schoolwork first. It's not worth it to sacrifice your grades for a part-time job.
Here are some things you can do: babysitting, car washes, tutoring, pet sitting/walking pets. When you're old enough to work you can try being a cashier, waitress, or barista. You can work in a library or restaurant. You can work in a grocery store or any other place that you want to work at.
I hope you find what you're looking for! Good luck.
Here are some things you can do: babysitting, car washes, tutoring, pet sitting/walking pets. When you're old enough to work you can try being a cashier, waitress, or barista. You can work in a library or restaurant. You can work in a grocery store or any other place that you want to work at.
I hope you find what you're looking for! Good luck.