By Ella Stone
If you’re anything like me, broke but full of fun ideas of places to go or things to do, maybe you should look into finding a part-time job–just like I did. The world nowadays has become so expensive, and not having any money makes it hard to go out with friends or even just to go grab a Starbucks after school. Especially if you drive, digging money from couch cushions or extra change from the dryer to pay to fill up your tank gets tiring.
Many places in Benicia hire younger kids that are looking for work experience. Places that hire teenagers also seem to be more lenient with hours or time off, so you can still experience all the fun that comes along with being in highschool. Places like Raleys and Safeway are great places to work to gain experience, and so are places like Sandoval’s or Sailor Jacks for learning skills like serving food and learning customer service skills. If you are into clothing or ethical fashion, there are boutiques on First Street like Collektive and Pink Arrows that could be more your speed. Since many students already work at these places, it’s a good chance to make more friends.
If you live closer to Vallejo or don’t mind a ten-minute drive, students can work at Target or the movie theater, Century Theater. If there is a job that you are interested in, there is no harm in going in and asking if they are hiring. The worst that could happen is they say ‘no.’ Places like FaceBook or the Library also tend to post things on Benicia Happenings or their bulletin boards showing requests for tutors or babysitting jobs. They may also post jobs in the area hiring.
Once you find a job you could be interested in, go ask for an application. Look it over and research a little about the job to make sure it is something that you would enjoy and may be good at doing. Remember, even if something confuses you, it is okay to ask questions. This is a learning experience. Messing up is part of life. Fill out the application and hype yourself up a bit. The more friendly and excited you seem, the more likely they will want you to join their team.
When it comes to the interview, try not to stress too much. Ask a friend or a family member to ask you some questions that may come up and practice your answers. A common mistake is practicing so much your interview sounds scripted. Be yourself in the interview—they know you aren’t going to be perfect—and that’s okay!
Don’t be nervous, whether it’s your first day on the job or your first interview, just enjoy it. Just because one job says no doesn’t mean everywhere will. Life is all about growing and learning, so take in every second of it.
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