The discussion on the benefits and drawbacks of working as a high schooler has been ongoing due to varying perspectives on the topic. On the one hand, there has been support for working while in high school because having a job means earning money to have a more active social life and pursuing hobbies. On the other hand, there is an argument that part-time jobs are distracting to students and can reduce academic accomplishment and interest in being successful at school. Despite the disadvantages, it is still a good idea for high schoolers to consider working part-time because of the positive skills and knowledge they can gain as well as learn how adult life is managed, thus preparing to be fully participating society members after school.
There are many advantages for high school students to get employed in part-time jobs while they study, at least for some portion of the year. Around 30% of high school-age students were reported to have jobs, with the percentage increasing with summer breaks (Walden University). Enrolling in a job can teach younger generations a relationship between learning and education. Specifically, the majority of high schoolers work in lower-paid positions that require little to no education. This allows clarifying that higher-paid jobs come as a result of experience and education. In addition, working teaches the value of money and that it takes effort and dedication to earn a living, making teenagers appreciate what their parents do for them when they get full-time jobs to provide for their families. Moreover, while learning about the value of the dollar, working students can improve their budgeting skills, which are an essential part of growing up and becoming independent from one’s parents.
Learning how to handle time management skills is another significant advantage of working when in high school. When they have a job, students will have to learn how to effectively schedule their day to ensure that they can have their school duties done while also completing their work-related responsibilities. Personally, when I got my first job in high school, I found it challenging to juggle an influx of duties, but with time, managing the schedule became easier as I learned to prioritize and make plans ahead.
The counter-argument to the benefits of working in high school is the premise that it can result in decreased academic achievement. While there is not enough evidence regarding the correlation between working and grades, some research suggests that students working upward of twenty hours a week suffer from reduced academic performance (Walden University). Thus, when students dedicate too much time and effort to working in part-time jobs, they do not have enough emotional and time resources to give to education. While this argument has some ground, the advantages of working outweigh the disadvantages. It could be challenging to manage time allocated for work and studies at first, but with experience, the issue will not have much of an impact on a long-term basis.
To conclude, having a part-time job in high school presents multiple opportunities for personal development, gaining valuable knowledge and competence, as well as preparing oneself for life as an adult. With a money-making mindset, students can become highly innovative and forward-thinking, developing plans for the future. While combining work and education can be time-consuming and affect academic achievement, it is still recommended for high schoolers to try their hand at some jobs so that they know what adult life entails and how they can prepare for it without the added stress.
Work Cited
Walden University. “Should Students Hold Jobs While in High School?.” Waldenu, Web.