Although summer typically commemorates the end of a grueling school year, naturally allowing students to relax, some have sought out alternate ways of work. Despite impediments that come with work: (Missing out on summer plans), students’ motivation to earn money whilst establishing a gauge of the work field is allowing them to keep busy during the offseason months.

With their first year near completion, many freshmen are determined to find employment over the summer, as they approach their second year of high school. Although places of employment typically don’t hire candidates under the age of 16, some of Wilsonvilles affiliations have exceptions and standards for promising, young workers.

Layla Gray, a freshman, approaching her sophomore year, plans to find work in the summer; she described her intent behind seeking out work by saying, “If you’re  in high school, you’re working at a place…” where there is likely an element of customer service and communication, “so it helps with social skills.” 

As opposed to Gray’s summer ambitions to compile a profit and valuable skills, Ava Milanovich, freshman is committed to soaking up the sun and allowing for time of replenishment and rehabilitation. Although she doesn’t personally plan on working this summer, Milanovich still recognizes the value of having a job saying, “It teaches responsibility,” and allows for personal growth.

King Cannaday, a freshman, has already acquired a job, planning to continue pursuing it throughout the summer. Their initial motivation was to create a sense of independent money consumption without having to worry about, “Asking [their] parents for money.” Cannaday additionally added the importance of experiencing authentic customer service, whether it’s, “How to deal with people without getting upset easily,” Or, “learn how to be mature and make quick, smart decisions,” In the presence of external pressures. 

While some plan to spend their summer in the company of the sun and relaxation, a handful of freshmen are evidently committed to begin their working careers this summer. No matter the chaos and pressure that comes with working, these freshmen have a strong head on their shoulders.