At the beginning of each school year, Hughson High students are given the opportunity to work on their school campus throughout the school day. What they are given is a chance to work for the school’s cafeteria.
This job allows students to get paid while at school. This works out, because as a student they are expected to be there no matter what. The workers enjoy working at the school for that exact reason, that they get to do their job at school. Alejandra Gonzalez, one of the four student employees said, “I do enjoy it mainly because it’s an easy way to earn money that doesn’t require me to work after school or during the weekends.” Their income is about sixteen dollars an hour.
Students on the job make the work easier for everyone. The adult employees are able to operate more effectively because of them and appreciate their help. Nichole, an older employee, said they help with dishes, clean up, and take over their job at times. The older workers love their student coworkers, and vice versa. Penelope Duvall, a student employee, talked about what she liked about her job. She stated, “I love my coworkers. They were a great help when I started working, and they continue to assist me with everything I need.” The workers are a team, and are constantly helping each other out.
Although their job has lots of positives, it does come with its challenges. The workers have to deal with other students at lunch, who are not always respectful towards them. Gonzalez said, “My biggest challenge is kids who act rude and having to scold them when they do.” She said it can be difficult, because she is not much older than these other students and feels as if she has no authority over them. Duvall stated that she struggles with picking up at times, because different items can be heavy. Challenges do arise for the workers, but the benefits outweigh the disadvantages.
Students agree that the workload is light. Duvall stated, “The workload isn’t a lot at all. All I do is give pizza out and return to the cafeteria to put everything away.” They agree that it is easy money, although some students have a different experience compared to their coworkers. Gonzalez stated that she is sometimes “cleaning the tables, stacking them, and cleaning after I eat” She works in the cafeteria during her fifth period too, so her workload is a bit different compared to the other students. Although she takes on more tasks, she says it is not bad work, and not enough for it to be a challenge.
The cafeteria workers consist of people from every age group. They all work together to create a good lunch environment for the students of Hughson High School, and their service is very appreciated. They are faced with challenges, but none of them can disagree with the fact it is a good job to have.
