Students Managing School and Work

For many students at Cardinal Mooney, the day does not end when the bell rings. Instead of going straight home, some head to restaurants, stores, and offices to begin their shift at work. 

Working students juggle homework, extracurricular activities, family responsibilities, and part-time jobs. While balancing everything can be challenging, many say the experience teaches valuable lessons about time management and responsibility. 

¨I usually go straight from cheer practice to work¨, said Nakiea Boykin, who works at Hampton Woodlands. ¨It is not always easy to balance work and school, it can become very stressful and tiring but it teaches me responsibility.¨

Several students help to support themselves, save for college, or pay for personal expenses. A senior, Chardae Pittman who works weekends explained, ¨I work to have money of my own and to support myself. I don’t like to rely on others and to be independent.¨ 

Managing time is one of the biggest challenges. After long shifts, students still need to study for tests and complete assignments. ¨I stay up late after work to get my school done and it can be very stressful at times¨, said Tyra Traylor. 

Despite the difficulties, many students say working has helped them grow. A senior who has held a job for two years shared, ¨I have learned responsibility from having to be on time and making sure the work I do is correct.¨ 

Teachers also notice the dedication of working students. ¨I find it admirable the number of students who are able to maintain academic excellence while working outside of school¨, said Mrs. Furano. 

Working students also say that their jobs prepare them for life after graduation. They learn how to communicate with customers, manage money, and work as part of a team. ¨I have learned how important it is to show up on time and give my best effort,¨ said Michael McGlone. 

In the end, students who balance school and work demonstrate determination, discipline and maturity. Through long days and late nights, they continue to pursue academic success while building skills that will benefit them far beyond high school. 

-Sophia Rotunno and Mihali Frangos