The bell rings, school’s out, but the day isn’t over for all. Some students are turning up some Bruno Mars as they mentally prepare themselves for their after-school shift. Walking into work ready to get their job done and make some mula. Teenagers at Arcata High work various jobs both after school and on the weekends, unknowingly leaving a mark on the community and changing their lives for the better.
Senior John Adams works for the Trinidad Chamber of Commerce as an Executive Director for the board. John’s biggest motivation for work is the “community service aspect,” which allows him to give back to the community he loves. Being able to give back to the community is a common dream, and for Adams to be in a position where he can do so is truly remarkable, especially at such a young age. Adams’s role allows him to attend meetings and have a say in events that attract tourism to Trinidad. Specifically, he was in charge of signing musicians to come and play for the Trinidad Arts Night, which ended up being a major success.
Senior Taegan Clancy is a beloved name around the hallways, as well as a beloved name at NorthTown Coffee shop, where he works. Clancy’s biggest takeaway from being a part of a coffee shop is the social aspect, whether it’s bantering with coworkers and making friends, or even dealing with grumpy customers who haven’t had their coffee of the day. If you are in the mood for some espresso and baked goods on the weekend, be sure to stop by and say hi to Ol’ Clancy.
Fellow senior Rowan Carter has worked at Round Table for quite a while now and can do most everything there. His favorite part of work is “the monetary gain,” as it is a great motivator and leads to financial stability, which is fun.
Junior Ava Gaskell works at the American Cancer Society Thrift Shop in Eureka; her biggest takeaway from work is her “work ethic and discipline improving”.Having a tremendous work ethic will take you far in life, regardless of the avenue you choose to pursue. It’s great to see teenagers heading down a good path.
Working as a high school student is a great way to become a well-rounded individual: it challenges you to be a diplomat when interacting with customers, make friends with coworkers, create a social group outside of your classmates, build discipline and work ethic, all while earning a paycheck. Gaskell sums it up best: “Work is great.”
