Senior, Matthew Molica wakes up and rushes to Essex County Co-Op. He arrives, no matter the rain, snow, or sunshine, ready to greet customers and haul around animal feed.  

Molica’s initial appeal to having a job was having some spending money. However, as he got deeper into the experience, he not only found joy in his work but also lessons to carry with him for the rest of his life. 

“I’ve learned about different types of hay and what’s healthy for animals, but also people skills and handling physical labor,” said Molica. 

Molica chose the co-op industry because he was in search of a high-paying job that included being outside and doing physical labor. Originally those were the only benefits he saw, but with deeper examination, he realized he’s learned how to communicate with customers and how to best meet their needs. Locally, there are many different types of businesses willing to hire teenagers. All of which have a lot to offer for current and future needs.

During the summer, junior Abby Richard works at Swell Willey’s, in Salisbury. Summer is a busy time in Salisbury due to the beach and you can learn a lot about people.

“I’ve learned a lot about customer service and how to get people to keep coming back,” said Richard.

Richard then went on to say, “It’s definitely just a starter job but I would love to pursue a career that involves communication with other people.

Aubrey Jodz, a Triton junior, got a job at The Poynt, in Newburyport and is more than satisfied with it. 

“I love it most of the time, it really tests my patience and kindness with strangers but 90% of the time it’s fun and a great way to learn how to interact with people in the real world,” said Jodz. 

When asked what she has learned from customer service she responded, “People are very impatient and responding to harsh remarks with calmness and kindness will always work. I also learned that putting in work and dedicating yourself will bring good things, like working hard and being available for shifts gets you a raise.”

Lukas Rainsford is another Triton senior in the workforce. The Deck, a popular restaurant in Newburyport, employs Rainsford. He works in the hectic and crowded kitchen, making tasty tacos for hungry customers. Motivated by a need for money and life skills, Rainsford eagerly applied there. He’s been a member of their team since the summer of 2024. The experience he gained in the cooking field will be useful for the remainder of his life. Before his job, he didn’t know much about the art, but now, he feels confident in his ability to construct almost any meal he desires.  Despite the long, twelve-hour shifts, Rainsford loves his job and could see himself in the industry long-term. 

“I chose the industry because I love food and cooking,” said Rainsford. 

On the other hand, his passion for the job comes with its consequences. Rainsford claims that his job has gotten in the way of his schoolwork multiple times, ultimately leading to becoming only a summertime thing. 

Another past member of the restaurant industry is Triton junior, Peighton Hertigan. Hertigan worked at The Poynt in downtown Newburyport during the summer of 2023, and a little into her sophomore year. She was a hostess for the establishment but chose to resign for multiple reasons. 

“I started to get busy with sports, it was overwhelming to go from school, to practice, then straight to work, leaving no time for any homework or leisure,” said Hertigan. 

Hertigan faced a lot of stress, balancing making waitresses and customers satisfied led to anxious shifts. Although, she didn’t walk away from the business empty-handed. 

“I learned the importance of time management and saving up the money I earned,” said Hertigan, “Working can take up a lot of time but there are definitely still benefits that prepare you for life out of High School. It’s important to be trained for a full-time job and support yourself.” 

Currently, Hertigan is in the process of applying to Dicks Sporting Goods, in hopes of becoming a cashier. She made this decision because she desires a less stressful job. A close friend of hers works there already and recommended it because of its kind staff and negotiable hours. 

The Dicks Sporting Goods in Seabrook’s faculty is filled with teenagers and college students. Store manager, Eddie Hernandez, is open to hiring people of all ages in search of an assortment of skills and experience. Whether it’s teaching the youth, or getting their fresh opinions, he sees multiple opportunities when it comes to filling his staff. 

“I have kids of my own, I wouldn’t want them overworking themselves, so I wouldn’t do that to my young staff,” said Hernandez. 

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, nationwide, 54% of youth were employed in July of 2024. This could be viewed as a positive, or negative fact. On one hand, the article “The Benefits of Experience” by Melissa Marcus of the UNC School of Medicine, states that working as a teen is linked to personal growth, helps build your resume, and leads to higher-paying professional careers. Their research also shows teenagers learn valuable skills, time management, and develop confidence in their abilities. On the other hand, “The Benefits and Risks of Adolescent Employment” by Jeylan T Mortimer of the National Library of Medicine claims teens who work long hours tend to have significantly lower grade point averages. Some students are simply not cut out for the stresses of employment, others will eternally reap the benefits. 

“Honestly, I just want to do what’s best for my future, that’s all I care about,” said Hertigan.