For many high school students, leaving their last class doesn’t mean the day is over. Instead of heading home to relax, some students have to clock in for shifts at restaurants, retail stores or other part-time jobs, trying to balance earning a paycheck while keeping their grades up.
Nearly 30% of high school students work at least part of the school year, either out of necessity or by choice, gaining experience, confidence and money for the future. However, juggling work and school can also create challenges, from increased stress to less time for studying or personal life. For many teens, succeeding in both the classroom and the workplace is a constant negotiation, testing how much they can handle.
Some students say having a job teaches discipline and helps them stay organized. Junior Giovanni Ocampo, who has a part-time job, said maintaining a strict schedule allows him to keep up with both school and work.
“I balance school work and job work by maintaining a schedule. When I get home I have four hours before I go to bed. I spend two of those hours studying, and then an hour to myself, and another hour doing some extra studying or homework that I need,” Ocampo said.
However, even with strong time management, working can have an effect on students, whether it’s emotionally or physically. Long shifts and limited free time can leave students feeling exhausted, making it harder to stay focused on schoolwork and stay motivated.
Other students find that the type of job they have plays a major role in how stressful the experience is. Senior Marlene Nieto, who works as a babysitter, said having control over her schedule makes balancing responsibilities easier.
“I don’t feel overwhelmed trying to manage both, because with babysitting you set your own hours so you don’t get told when to work,” Nieto said.
While some students can manage it well, others feel the pressure more strongly. Ashley Alcaraz, a senior who works part time, said working can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially when it is not necessary.
“Working while in school doesn’t really affect my mental health, I just wish that sometimes I didn’t get a job because it’s just a lot, especially while you’re still in high school, it’s better to not get a job if you don’t need it,” Alcaraz said.
Research shows that working while in high school can help students gain valuable life skills and prepare for future careers, it can also negatively affect academic achievement and mental health if students take on too many hours. In addition, students might struggle to find jobs that fit their schedules due to having their schedules filled with classes or lack of transportation.
Employment trends have also changed over time. In the 1990s, more than 30% of high school students were employed, but that number dropped significantly in the early 2000s. By 2010, only 15.7% of high school students were working. Since then, the rate has increased again, reaching about 22.5% in October 2023.
As more students enter the workforce, the question remains whether working during high school ultimately helps or harms them. While some students find jobs rewarding and beneficial for their future, others experience stress and fatigue that can have a negative impact on their education. For many, the impact depends on how well they are able to balance their responsibilities.
