Bathing suits, sun tan lotion and a nice clear sky sound like the makings of a perfect beach day on the weekend. For some Panthers however, every bit of free time is consumed by bussing tables, hanging clothes, or recording inventory. They have entered the work force.

Senior Kaley Jaslow balances varsity volleyball, student council, and academics while also working at Hollister up to four times a week.

“At Hollister, I hang and fold clothes, work the register and fitting room, and I also greet people,” Jaslow said, “During volleyball season I work two times a week.”

Employment at a clothing store can be very stressful, juggling bosses and unsatisfied customers. Other Palmetto students have found different ways of working in the community. A member of the Palmetto soccer team, sophomore Shelby Denkert serves as a referee for U-6 to U-9 soccer games on the weekend.

“When I ref on the weekends, I also play in soccer tournaments,” Denkert said. “The weekends I have off, I have to ref and those are the weekends where I want to hang out with friends…but the benefit is that I get paid!”

Finding a job in a depressed economy can be difficult for students in high school. Recent reports have shown that 26 percent of jobs among teenagers are babysitting-related. Popular with high school girls, babysitting doesn’t require many specific skills, and teenagers who have this job are able to earn minimum wage and in some cases, even more.

Junior Laura Kent babysits children, not necessarily for the money, but for the enjoyment of spending time with them.

“Babysitting is good because I like kids and I enjoy playing games with them,” Kent said. “I also make them dinner and put them to sleep.”

Of course, even the benefits of making money and gaining experience through a part-time job can’t always be as good as they seem. Many jobs have demanding hours, an incredible workload, or difficult co-workers. Even babysitting has its negatives.

“Sometimes the parents call me last minute and I already have something planned but it’s hard for me to say no,” Kent said.

The almighty dollar may cause teenagers to join the workforce, but one thing’s for certain- employment among students at Palmetto supports the community and helps them prepare for the future.

“If I didn’t work, I wouldn’t be where I am today,” Kent said, “It has helped me tremendously with my future.”