by Mallory Carlson ‘19

When a lot of teenagers try to get a job, they automatically believe they will have to work somewhere they do not like. Teens begrudgingly apply to anywhere hiring, which often leads to further discouragement upon rejection or disappointment upon realization of their new responsibilities as an employee.

It doesn’t have to be this way; Olney may not be a huge metropolis, but there is still a variety of businesses that offer opportunities for enjoyable employment. Even if a store is not advertising that they are hiring, it still could be worthwhile to introduce yourself as a potential employee to the owner or manager. Make a list of five local places you’d like to work and turn in a resume, in case they are hiring later. For those under 18, a work permit is required, but it can be printed out online and is valid after being signed by the minor, a parent, and the employer.

Also, your application becomes more appealing to employers when they can see that your interests reflect the characteristics of the business, for example, if you like reading, you could try to get a job at the local library or bookstore. An owner may be looking for extra help over the summer; lots of stores are busier then because there are more people out and about. There are also many positions that could just last for the summer: camp counselor, lifeguard, or full-day babysitting/nannying. Some of these jobs could start before summer begins and end up being permanent, so now is the perfect time to start looking.