Jason’s day is full of teachers, classes, and assignments. He also has an after-school job. Jason works hard to earn money and keep up with his studies. But in the past few weeks, he has been working too many hours and not doing his homework or passing his tests.

When Jason first started looking for a job, he was very excited. He put together a resumé to help him acquire a position. He thought having a job would teach him about responsibility, as well as help him earn some extra cash.

Like Jason, many students think that having a part-time job is a good thing. They get a chance to make new friends with their coworkers. Their bosses and coworkers perceive them as responsible adults. Students will also have more to put on their resumé when they are older. They start to learn the value of money and to save up for the things they want, like clothes, video games, or even a car. Some even help out with their family’s needs. These are all benefits of having an after-school job.

However, there are those who think students should not be working while they are in school. Jason could not sustain his good grades because of work. Some people claim that students who work do not do as well in school because they don’t have as much time to study or complete homework. These students are also tired more often and do not pay as much attention in class. Those who are against students working say that education should come first, so students can get better jobs as adults.

What do you think about this? Are after-school jobs helpful or harmful to students?