Do a lot of high schoolers work part-time jobs?

I'm trying to figure out if working a part-time job while in high school is common. How many of you have part-time jobs? Is it manageable with schoolwork and extracurriculars?

A significant number of high school students do work part-time jobs. According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, about 20% of high school students held part-time jobs in 2024. It can certainly be a rewarding experience as it can provide work experience, responsibility, financial independence, and time management skills.

However, finding a balance between work, school, and extracurricular activities can be challenging. Every student's situation and capacity are unique, and it largely depends on the individual's time management skills. Some students can handle their schoolwork, participate in after-school activities, and still maintain a part-time job without it affecting their academic performance. But, for others, this may prove too demanding.

If you're considering a part-time job, you should first evaluate your current commitments: your course load, homework, extracurriculars, and any other responsibilities you may have. Then, consider how many hours you would be able to devote to a part-time job without negatively impacting these other areas. As an example, some students find that working 10-15 hours per week is manageable, but this varies from person to person.

Remember that colleges do value this kind of experience, viewing it as a demonstration of maturity, responsibility, and life skills. They understand that not all learning comes from books, and real-world experiences like holding down a job can be just as valuable as academic achievements. But at the same time, they also want to see solid academic performance and involvement in extracurricular activities, so it's all about finding the right balance.