In addition to homework and extracurricular activities, many students at Pembroke Pines Charter High School (PPCHS) assume another significant responsibility that prepares them for the next stage of life: having a job. Whether it’s a recreational sports coach, restaurant host, or even a science assistant at a museum, Charter students are embracing the possibilities of tomorrow by demonstrating growth and maturity in a professional setting.
Having a job in high school may seem daunting; however, it offers a variety of learning opportunities and advantages to students. To demonstrate, if you’re a senior and are looking to improve your college applications, earning a job can help boost your chances of getting into your dream school. It can also help strengthen your communication skills, making public speaking feel much easier.
PPCHS senior Olivia Kennedy works as a science facilitator at The Museum of Discovery and Science. She shares how she’s had to “explain things in different ways for everyone, and adapt to what age group [she’s] speaking to.”
“[Working has] also helped me gain confidence in speaking to large groups, as well as staying calm in busy, hectic environments,” she says. From working with box turtles and liquid nitrogen to interacting with young children, Kennedy has embraced her unique work environment as a fun and engaging learning experience.
A job also allows you to learn valuable life lessons, such as budgeting your finances. Considering that it is most students’ first time earning an income, it’s vital to understand the responsibilities that come with it. A highly recommended way to manage your finances is to open a savings account. From here, you can set aside a portion of your paycheck to save up for larger purchases like a car or a new video game console. The remaining bit of your check can be used for leisurely purposes, such as a sweet treat at Menchie’s or a hangout at the mall with some friends.
Senior Hannah Ikner works at an after-school sewing camp. Not only does she find immense joy in sewing, but she also motivates herself to work for her future. “I do my job to save up for college. I plan to go out of state, so I’m trying to make it easier on myself for when I leave.” During the summer, Ikner works for 7 hours, five days a week.
She continues, “[My job] has taught me perseverance. There were many times when I wanted to call out sick due to exhaustion, but I didn’t because I knew my end goal of having enough saved up for college.”
Having a job also builds independence in teenagers. Learning to navigate the adult world takes effort, time, and patience. Thus, working as a teen can enhance one’s ability to handle tricky situations with confidence and patience. This further motivates teens to pursue lifelong goals, no matter how difficult they may seem.
PPCHS senior Brianna Albuernes has fostered her independence with three jobs: waitress, lifeguard, and swim instructor. She shares, “I work to have money for myself, car payments, and shopping.” She continues, “I also like interacting with people and being a part of big moments in their lives. [For example], anniversaries and graduation parties while I waitressed, and [seeing] the joy people have when they can finally swim on their own.”
For other PPCHS students, work has offered them the opportunity to reflect on their growth as individuals. Senior Jocelyn Roldan has become an admirable figure to her volleyball athletes as a coach.
“In a way, I don’t want to be their coach; I want to be their friend. I think I’ve gained more knowledge of leadership after learning how to coach, motivate, and comfort the girls in any way possible.” She furthered comments, “I’ve learned how to be that adult for them in [hard] moments.”
No matter what motivations students have to work, every job prepares them for the next stages of life. So, if you have a little extra time on your plate, seeking a job may be the perfect opportunity to learn day-to-day skills vital for your future.
