Does a high school job count as professional experience?

I'm thinking about college applications and internships and wondering if my part-time job in high school counts as professional experience. Will admissions or employers see it as valuable?

Absolutely, a high school job does count as professional experience. Admissions officers value employment because it shows that you've gained real-world skills like time management, teamwork, problem-solving, responsibility, customer service, and communication, among others. Your job can help demonstrate practical knowledge and shows that you can balance commitments, which colleges appreciate.

As for the corporate world, it's never too early to start accumulating practical work experience. It may not be directly related to the field you're aiming for, but it still signifies that you have been exposed to a work environment, which can be a significant advantage. Employers will appreciate that you've had exposure to the discipline required in a working environment, such as punctuality, following rules, managing tasks and dealing with supervisors and colleagues.

For example, if you were a cashier at a fast food restaurant, you could focus on the customer service skills you developed, and how you responded to high-pressure, fast-paced situations. If you babysat regularly, you could highlight your responsibility, organizational skills, and ability to handle unexpected challenges.

Remember, it's all about how you represent these experiences, framing them in a way that emphasizes the skills and qualities you've developed. It’s the kind of preparation that provides a strong foundation for future work and academic endeavors.