Going to college and spending time away from home is one thing, but working my first job at 18 years old was a unique experience. It was something I did not know I was ready for.
When I came to college, I was 17. I always had the idea of getting a job on campus, but I thought I would not be able to get one until the spring semester. Luckily, I was able to find one. When it was my first day, I was nervous. My mother never let me have a summer job because she always told me she wanted me to “still be a kid.” She wanted me to enjoy my summer. Looking back on that conversation, I understand why. As much as I enjoy the work environment, it can be stressful at times. But even though there is stress, it is all worth it in the end. Ever since I started working there, I have loved it.
This job means more than having a job and making money, it is about gaining independence. When I moved to college in August, it was the first time I did not have my parents with me. It was the first time I had made my own decisions. When I got this job, I felt proud of myself, knowing I took the next step into making a choice that would affect me for the better.
One of the things I enjoy most about my job is interacting with people. At the beginning of the school year, I was either not a people-person or thought people were secretly judging me and did not want to talk to me. But because of my job, I was able to interact with people more often. Not only that, when I am helping people with what food to pick out, it makes me feel good knowing that I was able to assist someone, even if it is about what will satisfy their appetite.
If you are thinking about getting a job during college, there is something you should keep in mind. I get it, you are a broke college student and want money to support yourself. But get a job that will not only make you money but also make you want to get up and go to work. Get a job that you will enjoy doing for a long time.