Too young? Options

[stephinika]

That's lame though, there's nothing wrong with having a job at 15. I think thats when I had my first real job too. I think it shows you're maturity and independence that you want to go get your own job and make some money.

[MissHygienic]

I don't understand their rationale. They say that they push you because you won't push yourself, yet when you're asking permission to get a job (which, at 15, it's pushing yourself), they won't let you.

[jaeman]

I got my first job at 14, I was a floor sweeper.

[livwho]

I don't understand their rationale. They say that they push you because you won't push yourself, yet when you're asking permission to get a job (which, at 15, it's pushing yourself), they won't let you.

I told them I was quitting swim team. They think I'm only doing it because I'm lazy, which is complete bullshit. I'm sick of it; after ten years, you need a break. It's not worth wasting my summer over when I could be working and earning money for myself.

I'm sick of having to gain their approval on everything.

EDIT: SHIT. Triple post. Mergy please.

Reason for edit: fixed your triple post. =) - stephinika

[superstitious]

If I may, the "pushing" might only be in concern for academics and extracurricular activities (related to school, such as the swim team) and not necessarily a need to push on a personal level or a job related level. Obviously you are a motivated individual and I'm sure to some extent that they can see that.

I can see things from both side because I am a relatively young mom and I'm starting to understand (some) of my mother's perspectives on things when I was in school and of course I remember how it felt when it seemed like I wasn't given my own room to grow or felt like somehow my independence was being stifled.

At one point, you will have to work for the rest of your life (unless you get married and your spouse is able to completely support you. Despite that being a terribly boring notion, it doesn't happen as often as it used to). If you are able to focus on school, focus on participating in extracurricular activities (beit art, drama, music, sports, computers) and on friends then I would say do it. Live it and have as much fun and absorb as much as you can, while you still can. Not to say that life gets horrible, that the acquisition of knowledge ends and working is a bitch (ok, sometimes working IS a bitch) but there will be a point in your life when you will not get the choices that you have now and/or they will be pretty limited.

I just wanted to give an additional perspective.

And can someone help her out with the merging. LOL XD

[jesusisthebestth...]

I don't necessarily think that 15 is too young to get a job, but my sister is in your same position. She's 15, wants to work and mother refuses to let her get a job. I understand that your parents want what's best for you and they probably think that if you get a job you may have to take some time away from other areas they believe are more important. But trust me, honey, working isn't all that it's cracked up to be. Minimum wage is a bitch and there are pricks you will encounter on enough jobs you'll have in the future. There are other ways that you can express your need for independence without getting a job. You have your whole life to work, don't push the time. Be 15 and enjoy it.

[S-Majere]

I don't think 15 is too young - but in the UK anyone under the age of 18 has work hour limit. I'm not sure if it's the same in the States.

I think getting a part time job teaches you skills you simply can't learn at school. Try explaining that to your folks - it's a great experience.

[jaeman]

I think getting a part time job teaches you skills you simply can't learn at school. Try explaining that to your folks - it's a great experience.

You hit the spot, that's exactly why it's so good.

[karmakiller]

I think it's good that you're willing to get a job on your own and that your parents don't have to push you. Around here you can start working at the grocery store and McD's at 14. But if you're under 18 you have to get a work permit.

[YaGurlSukedMe2SL...]

depends on what kind of working. retail is a bitch, what happens when an 80 year old lady whose brother just died asks for a discount?

[Gryffindor-Girl]

Ok I DO NOT think you are too young you in my opinion are the perfect age to start working. Getting a job shows that you are strong enough to make your own way and it gives you the independence you probably crave.