Parnian Esmaeilishayeh (12) | STAFF REPORTER
In 2024, on average, 57.2% of youth aged 15 to 24 in Canada were employed (Spiteri and Adkins). This creates a concern about whether students having part-time jobs is beneficial or distracting. Part-time jobs bring a lot of new challenges, responsibilities, and stress. However, they also come with many benefits that outweigh the cons. Having a part-time job allows students to learn about the real world, network, and earn money.
Student life is entirely different from the real world. When students leave the academic world and enter the workforce, they are often struck with the contrasts. However, if students start working part-time before their education is complete and have to work full-time, they will slowly transition into the workforce. There is a complete difference in the manners of the workforce. There is an increase in professionalism, flexibility, level of collaboration, and much more. Students can gain experience adjusting to these changes sooner rather than later through a part-time job. Getting this exposure also allows students to make mistakes when it is more acceptable compared to when they are older and have high standards to meet.
Networking is a major component in how one’s life can proceed. Networks provide reference letters, knowledge, assistance, and resources that students need. However, there are very few networks that can be made in school. By entering a work environment, students are expanding their social circle and getting introduced to a whole new group of people. They can learn networking skills and meet a wide range of people to learn from.
At the end of the day, a job’s main purpose is to earn money. By working, students can learn how money works through the experience of getting their first paycheck and having to manage that money. They know how fast hard-earned money can be spent. Not only does this increase their appreciation for money, but it also teaches them about their future. Additionally, money can allow them to start saving. Their savings can go towards university, a car, or maybe something as simple as a gift for themselves. Learning to earn, save, and spend money is beneficial before becoming 100% financially independent.
Most debate if a job is worth it as it adds extra stress, responsibility, and effort to the workload of studying. However, this all depends. It depends on the job you choose, the major you have, and the lifestyle you maintain. In most cases, the pros outweigh the cons. Having a job prepares you for your final destination of entering the workforce and gives you a head start.
Work Cited
Spiteri, Suzanne, and Laura Adkins. “The state of youth employment in Canada.” Labour Market Information Council, 9 August 2024, https://lmic-cimt.ca/the-state-of-youth-employment-in-canada/. Accessed 1 March 2025.
