Whether it’s saving for a car, a phone, or college many students have to find a way to earn money. Studies show that about 37% of U.S teenagers have had a job or are currently looking for one. Teenagers work for several reasons. Many students need money for things they want or for their future needs.

 Senior, Payton Wall said, “I think construction is the best job because it pays well which is needed for your future and other things like dates.”  

While some teenagers don’t have to worry about paying for their future, day-to-day expenses are something high school students face. 

Senior, Chris Barlow said, “My job is really chill, whenever I need some extra money for food and gas I sell stuff on eBay for my neighbor.” 

Around Farmington High we see a lot of diverse student jobs. More and more students are working for themselves rather than for a company.

 Junior, Cael Mckeon said “I don’t work at a job, but I use Depop to market and sell my clothes.” 

Nontraditional jobs have both benefits and challenges. Benefits include creativity within the workspace, productivity, and extra money. Some challenges can include inconsistency along with the risk of putting in lots of effort and getting little return.  

Jobs or working in general can help teach students important skills for their future. At our very own high school we have a place that functions just like any other job, like the snack bar. This teaches students how to handle money and interact with customers.  After school jobs can be time-consuming just as school is, so how do students manage both?

Senior, Daisey Hansen said “I try to get as much of my homework done in class as possible but the extra, I get done at my job because of how lowkey it is.” 

As the need for jobs and what jobs can bring increases, we see more teenagers exploring new jobs and ways to earn money. It’s interesting to see what jobs students enjoy the most and see how their creativity can earn them money.