It seems like a great idea: making extra bucks by spending several hours after school at a part-time job. But is having a job during the school year worth it?
Many teenagers work during the summer or year-round, taking on various part-time jobs to save for college or earn cash for personal expenses. Yet jobs can take a toll on teenagers’ lives.
According to a 2011 study by the University of Washington’s Kathryn Monahan, working students may suffer academically. The study surveyed 1,792 11th and 12th graders and found that working students were less engaged in school than non-working students.
Monitoring the Future, an ongoing study led by University of Michigan’s Jerald Bachman, has found that an increase in work hours may result in poor grades and reduced college aspirations. Moreover, after-school jobs limit the amount of time students can spend studying.
Working students also miss out on time with friends. In a recent survey conducted at Irvine High School, 13 percent of 1,095 respondents indicated they held jobs and 61 percent of respondents with jobs said they lacked free time. Instead of volunteering with clubs or participating in social events, they are required to work.
Those who juggle work with extracurricular and social activities may suffer from fatigue and stress. According to the Irvine High survey, 42 percent of working students are tired or stressed. These students lose sleep because they either work late or stay up to finish homework.
Before getting jobs, students must think about work hours, school expectations, their social lives and whether the job is manageable. If so, is the money earned worth the sacrifice of high school memories?
Most importantly, teenagers should remember that school comes first. If academics slip, it’s time to quit the job and focus on school.
