High school is a pivotal moment in the lives of young adults. In the short span of four years, the lives of us teenagers change drastically. As we step into adulthood, we embark on new and special experiences. 

These experiences range from the joy and excitement we felt driving a car for the very first time to the overwhelming stress we felt while filling out college applications.

However, perhaps one of the most important experiences that some students experience while  in high school is that of having a part time job. This experience is one that finally puts us into real world situations and gives us a true sense of responsibility and maturity.

Handling a job as well as managing school work can be tough but many students are able to do just that. One such student who has managed to do this is Selma High senior Francisca Vasquez. 

Francisca Vasquez, a full time student, has devoted some of her time to working in the fields. As field work can vary depending on seasons, Vasquez explained that her primary duties at work included packaging bell peppers. 

“Adjusting work to my life wasn’t that hard,” said  Vasquez when asked about the difficulty of managing work and regular life. “It wasn’t that bad.”

“I had to learn how to put the correct sizes of bell peppers into the right box at a fast pace,” she added.

Vasquez elaborated on her enjoyment of work.

“I look forward to going to work, we have fun days. We laugh a lot, ” she remarked. 

She also explained that she worked in a very friendly and amicable environment. 

“The people there would talk to me when bringing the bell peppers,” added Vasquez. “I even made friends with people my age.”

Vasquez also addressed the benefits she received from her job opportunity.

“It was a good learning experience. I talked to a lot of new people and I learned a lot of new things,” she further explained.

In addition to this, Vasquez reflected on the impact this job had on her.

“A key takeaway I had from working was to appreciate the things that my parents are able to give me,” she expressed.

“They work hard for the things they get me, and when I work I appreciate that a little more,” she gratefully acknowledged.

For Francisca, this opportunity has been one of great value and one she appreciates greatly.