Tackling a part-time job in high school is a lot of work, especially when you’re trying to keep up in all your classes. However, there are ways to make sure you thrive at work and in school! Here are some things to consider if you hope to work a part-time job in high school.
1. Find a job that aligns with your schedule
When working a part-time job throughout the school year, you want to make sure your job works with your schedule. If you have after school activities on certain days, be sure to communicate that with your employer. You may find that working a fixed schedule every week is the best option for you. You should also inquire about the time commitment before accepting the position.
Since you are a full-time high school student, it would be difficult to work more than 10 to 15 hours a week. Be sure you are aware and informed on the labor laws in your state. Here’s a resource that can help. It’s likely that your employer will be understanding of your academics, so don’t be afraid to speak up. It can be intimidating to talk to your boss about this, especially if this is your first job. If you want some advice on how to vouch for yourself, peep this video.
2. Find a part-time job you enjoy
If you enjoy your part-time job, it will feel less like work, and more like a hobby or an extracurricular activity. Think about which job you would prefer after a long day at school. Take into account your interests. For example, if you enjoy hiking and other outdoorsy activities, you may prefer working at a store that sells camping equipment. (As opposed to waiting tables at a restaurant). If you love to read, you would likely enjoy working at the library or a bookstore.
You may also want to consider any particular fields, industries, or careers of interest. There may be local internship opportunities to shadow professionals in that field. For example, if you hope to pursue a career in media, contact your local news station to see if they offer any opportunities for high school students.
3. Prioritize your responsibilities
Staying organized and setting priorities will serve you well in striking a balance between work and school. If you don’t already, invest in a planner or download an app to keep track of your responsibilities. This may include homework, test dates, essay deadlines, work hours, club meetings, sports games, and so on.
When setting your priorities, your school work and studies should always come first. If your grades start to slip, you may want to cut back on your work hours or take an extracurricular off your to-do list.
4. Take care of yourself
Managing the stress of school and a part-time job can seem overwhelming. Make sure you are taking care of yourself by adopting healthy habits. This includes maintaining 7-9 hours of sleep each night, drinking more water, and recharging in ways that work for you. Taking care of yourself also requires leaning on your support system when needed. If the stress becomes overwhelming, reach out to your family or mentors for advice and encouragement.
Balancing school and a part-time job is not an easy thing to do. You should be so proud of yourself for having the drive and dedication to take on that challenge. To learn more about starting your first internship, check out these tips.