On Wednesday, Sept. 17, New Trier High School’s annual student job fair took place outside of the cafeteria. Over 19 companies and organizations set up booths with information about their institutions, waiting for the halls to crowd with students before and during lunch periods.

“I feel like it would be helpful for the future, to have a job as a student,” junior Alexa Kunreuther said. “You get money, you get to build experience.” 

Because employment as a high school student is optional, the extra money is definitely a perk. Kunreuther also mentioned that not only does being employed as a high school student provide an income, but it also develops the skills necessary for transitioning into adulthood that are useful for the future. Time management, communication, responsibility, and work ethic are all crucial components that are developed with experience.

“It’s always a fun time, and it’s a good time to provide guidance and help in any way possible,” Human Resources Director Veronica Kagan, who represented Skokie Country Club, said.

Not only does a part-time job as a student advance your expertise, but it’s also an opportunity to explore your interests and a potential career, Kagan says. The job fair featured a variety of businesses, ranging from academic tutors to children’s sports coaches. The most common organizations represented are park districts. The Glencoe, Winnetka, and Highland Park park districts showcase a large selection of positions, such as summer camp counselors, lifeguards, swim instructors, basketball coaches, and ice skating instructors. 

Although having a part-time job as a student seems enticing, there are some obstacles that students must overcome; time management is an important factor that must be taken into consideration when a student is working regularly. 

“A teenager would have so many other things going on, especially nowadays, when they have so many different clubs, sports…maybe they’re not as focused on work,” Kagan explained. “This is more of a temporary thing for them.”

The North Shore is teeming with businesses old and new, whether they’re small, local boutiques, mall-based retail, or chain restaurants—there’s always something for everyone. 

“We came here today because we know that kids want to make some money,” Kagan said. “And we have that opportunity to help each other out.”

The job fair isn’t the only opportunity for students to become employed. The Job Board, which can be found under “Students” on New Trier’s website, helps students discover employment opportunities in the local area. Company names, job titles, descriptions, job addresses, pay, hours, age requirements, and more can be found in the Job Board spreadsheet. 

“[The job fair is a] really wonderful way for our school to build bridges with local businesses in the community who are looking to support students at our school,” job fair organizer and Post High School Counselor Cassandra Barca said.