SHOULD YOU GET A PART TIME JOB?
People seem to get really divided over this issue. Some people *cough parents cough* argue that students are students, that their only job is to study, and the pressure of a part time job would be too much. Other parents argue, equally fervently cry that the best thing for their kid is to earn some money, get some responsibility and learn the true value of money.
There is also a lot of fear surrounding part time jobs as well. Will you miss your chance? What if you don't have anything to write on your resume? What if it stops you from getting in to university?
THE POSITIVES OF PART TIME WORK
There are some distinct positives to getting a job young. It can be a lot of fun, looks fantastic on your CV, and can help you learn life skills that school some how fails to teach. When I first started working it was the first time I began to appreciate the value of money.
Some of my best friends are from my part time job at Maccas. We had lots of fun doing late night shifts for $9 an hour, learning about the fantastic and really generous parts of humanity, as well as the less than ideal ones.
Having an extra source of income is also great! Whatever pocket money you get, working for your money makes you appreciate it a whole lot more.
BEFORE YOU SIGN UP, MAKE SURE YOU'RE AWARE OF THE NEGATIVES
Balancing study and work can be difficult. Rosters often change week to week, and it can be hard to make sure you have enough time to do everything.
It will probably mean you have to miss out on something. Bosses generally don't take to well to people skipping work every time someone has a party.
Working, particularly in retail or hospitality, you will be starting at the bottom of the ladder. It will be up to you to slowly work your way up to the top, but at the beginning you'll have the gross jobs, the hardest jobs, and the jobs that pay the worst.
NOTHING IS FOREVER
I didn't start working until after I had finished school, and I don't think it hurt my chances. I have friends that started working in year 9, and they did just as well in school as I did.
No matter what you choose, there will be other opportunities to change your mind.
And hey, when you graduate, come and work as a tutor with us!