I'm interested in working on a farm over the summer. Do farms still hire high school students for seasonal work, or is it more common to see them hiring only experienced workers?
Yes, it's fairly common for farms to hire high school students for seasonal work, especially during the summer months when there's a high demand for extra labor. While it's true that some farms might prefer workers with previous farming or agriculture experience, many are more than willing to hire beginners and give them on-the-job training.
The kind of work available can vary from working with crops (planting, weeding, harvesting) to tending to livestock. Usually, it tends to be manual labor, so be prepared for physical work and long hours in the outdoor elements.
However, you'll need to check in your local area, as hiring practices can differ from farm to farm. Some farms might have formal internship or apprenticeship programs that specifically cater to high school students or those interested in pursuing a career in agriculture. You could also consider farmers' markets, as they often need part-time help.
Lastly, remember to start your search early as many of these positions can fill quite quickly. Networking can be particularly effective in this line of work, so reach out to local farmers, agricultural teachers, or organizations to learn about potential opportunities.
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