Written by Nancy Spivey, VP of Talent Strategies, NKY Chamber of Commerce
I was 13 when I started earning money selling fresh produce on a neighbor’s front porch. I also had “teen jobs” as a babysitter and a high school sports beat reporter. Money earned paid for movie tickets, Mountain Dew, and gas. More important, those early work experiences were instrumental in me becoming the professional I am today.
There’s increasing debate over whether students should work while in school. Rising costs, a declining population, and shifting workforce demands make student employment not just a personal choice, but an economic necessity.
In today’s competitive job market, early work experience can give students a significant advantage. A recent survey by the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) indicates that nearly 91% of employers prefer candidates with some work experience, and 65% value those with relevant internships.
The number of entry-level jobs in the U.S. is steadily increasing, yet there’s a paradox at play. A 2023 U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) report shows approximately 5.4 million job openings, with many in fields that require minimal experience or training. Despite this, employers are finding it difficult to fill these positions. This gap between job availability and workforce readiness is where student workers can play a pivotal role.
Locally, an estimated 6,000 Northern Kentucky residents ages 16-24 are not working. Statewide, that number jumps to approximately 75,000. Speaking on behalf of the business community, I want to encourage all who have an influence on our student population to support some work experience.
The U.S. Census Bureau projects that by 2034, there will be more adults over 65 than children under 18 for the first time in history. This shift means that the labor force will increasingly rely on younger workers to sustain economic growth. Encouraging students to enter the workforce while still in school is not just beneficial for their personal development, but also essential for maintaining a robust labor market.
Beyond the financial aspect, the skills gained from working—time management, teamwork, problem-solving—are invaluable. These skills enhance a student’s employability post-graduation while contributing to their overall development as responsible, self-reliant adults.
There are, of course, valid concerns about the potential downsides of working while studying. The balance between work and academics is delicate, and there is a risk that too many hours on the job could detract from academic performance. However, research from Georgetown University’s Center on Education and the Workforce suggests that students who work a moderate number of hours per week (around 15-20) tend to perform better academically than those who do not work at all. The key lies in finding a balance that allows students to gain work experience without compromising their education.
Moreover, as we look towards the future, the nature of work is changing. Automation and artificial intelligence are transforming industries, and the jobs of tomorrow will require a blend of technical skills and human creativity. Students who engage in the workforce early are better positioned to adapt to these changes, acquiring soft skills that machines cannot replicate and learning to navigate the complexities of a dynamic economy.
Yet, amidst the economic and personal advantages of working during school, there is growing pressure on students to focus on other pursuits, particularly sports and academic excellence, as pathways to scholarships. The allure of a full-ride scholarship, either academic or athletic, is undeniable. For many, it represents a chance to achieve higher education without the crippling debt that so often accompanies it.
The pressure to focus exclusively on sports or academics, while understandable, can be shortsighted. Scholarships, while incredibly valuable, are not guaranteed, and the odds of securing one are often slim. Moreover, the skills gained from working—real-world experience, financial literacy, and the ability to manage multiple responsibilities—are essential, regardless of whether a scholarship is secured. These skills provide a safety net and a competitive edge in an increasingly uncertain job market.
Balancing work, academics, and extracurricular activities is undoubtedly challenging, but it is also a realistic reflection of the demands students will face in their future careers. Employers today are looking for well-rounded individuals who can juggle multiple tasks and adapt to changing circumstances. Students who learn to manage these demands early are better prepared for the realities of the workforce.
In conclusion, while the pursuit of sports and academic scholarships is admirable, it should not come at the expense of gaining valuable work experience. Demographic shifts, rising educational costs, and a demand for a skilled workforce make student employment not just a means to an end but a crucial component of preparing the next generation for the challenges and opportunities of the future. It’s time we rethink our approach to student employment—not as a distraction from education, but as an essential part of it.
