I started working at Chick-fil-A about eight months ago, and it has been such an impactful experience. I feel like in high school it is almost expected that you get a job and start working, but before I applied for Chick-fil-A I was not really sure what it would be like balancing work and school. It can seem really daunting, and although it is not easy all the time, it is definitely something that is possible.
My biggest tip is to apply somewhere with flexible hours. With a busy school schedule, going straight from school to work might not always be ideal. Understand there will be days when you just need time to study or relax.
Talk to your manager! Advocate for yourself and tell them what things you have going on at school. If you are really busy during certain times of the year, your manager should understand.
A great way to figure out good places to work while being in school, is to talk to people that you know that already have a job. They can tell you exactly what working there is like before you apply, and you can understand what type of time commitment you are agreeing to. I applied to Chick-fil-A with three of my friends already working there. I was able to get a feel for what it would actually be like working there through them.
Learning how to manage your time will also definitely come with getting a job. Prioritize certain things that you need to get done before work, and make sure that you do not put school second. You are not going to be perfect right away. There will be days when you forget to finish an assignment, or you just feel way too overwhelmed. That’s normal, and as time goes on you will get better at managing your time.
Getting a job was one of the best decisions I’ve made, and it has changed me for the better in a lot of ways. I have learned how to work in different atmospheres, how to serve people, and just get an entirely new humbling perspective on things. I took the step and applied one random day in January, and almost nine months later I am so glad I did. While you definitely should not feel pressured to get a job in high school, if you are thinking about getting one but still want to have time for other things, it is definitely possible. You got this!
As always
Love, Haley
