Senior Jacie Huang arrives already dressed in uniform and walks to the back of the crew room where she puts up her bag before beginning her shift at McDonald’s with an assignment from her manager after clocking in.
Meanwhile, senior Sara Sommer parks her car hurriedly and places her purse in her car’s trunk along with her cell phone, rushing into Old Navy to start her shift.
Both girls work at different places and have different schedules. Sommer works when her managers call her in and Huang works during the weekends with alternating hours that are also determined by their managers.
As soon as the 6th period bell rings, Sommer jumps out of her seat and gets into her car to get to Old Navy on time by3 o’clockon Highway 6.
“Old Navy has amazing managers and employees so it’s awesome to work with people you love. Also, we have some really fun customers that make my day better,” she said.
Despite all her rushing, Sommer has had some unique experiences and entertaining managers that keep her happy while she’s working.
“It seems strange but, one of my favorite managers absolutely loves shoplifters. You know when someone is stealing because she’s running around with a huge smile and bright red face. It’s pretty funny,” Sommer said.
As a fast food employee, Huang sees McDonald’s as a place where she can be independent and earn her own money.
“I like the feeling when you see your paycheck deposited in your bank account, and you’re finally able to buy some things you’ve only been able to drool over before,” she said.
Work isn’t just about making your own income and meeting new people, sometimes deals with rude people or works long hours sometimes from8 a.m.to4 p.m.or even until closing.
“What I dislike is the stress that comes with it. Sometimes the scheduling isn’t the best, and dealing with difficult customers or co-workers can be really tiring. Also, long shifts are the worst, especially when the manager on duty decides to give you a super early or late break,” Huang said.
Huang finishes her homework during the week and attends after school activities and tutoring since she only works during the weekends. Sommer’s job trial ended and was kept permanently. Now whenever her managers call her, she goes in to work.
“I have practically no homework as a senior, but when I do, I try my hardest to get it done during class if I’ll be home late [because of my job],” Sommer said.
In spite of the hard responsibilities of work, both girls enjoy the perks that come with having a job as well as the downfalls. They both know to look on the positive side and get the best out of them.
“Generally the commentary you get from people working at McDonald’s is negative. But I’ve managed to find some fun within this job. Having a friend or two that already works there helps, but it’s always up to the individual – any job is as fun as you make it,” Huang said.
