<p>I'm a high school senior and I have this big problem that I've been thinking about for months now. I'm a teen so I need money for clothes, shoes, school supplies, snacks, etc... Since this is my last year of high school, I've been wondering if maybe I should start working and earning my own money because I don't like asking money from my sister whom I live with here in America. The only problem is that I fear that I won't be able to focus on my studies and not have enough time to do them after work if I do get one. My junior year was very hard for me because it was my first time to be a in big American public school so it was a big contrast to what I was used to back in my country. I was and still am depressed ever since I came here because of reasons too personal to announce, but I really want to work to earn my own money but at the same time I don't want to jeopardize my education. I have to work hard this year to bring my grades up from last year and do many things to make me presentable to my college choices. This is a "break or make it" year for me so I don't really know if I should get a job or just focus with school. I know many people, who are my classmates who are not doing so well with their grades because they work and don't have time to do their studies after. I fear that I will be like them if I started working. I know in college many students work and do their studies so I don't know if I should do it now or later in college. What do you guys think?</p>
<p>I know you want to focus on your studies as much as possible, but if the purpose of getting a job would only be for some basic spending money, as opposed to crucial savings, getting a job could even be beneficial outside of the money. So long as you only worked 10 to 15 hours a week, you would still have enough time for school work, you would get some pocket money, and your time management skills would improve (although you do sound rather studious, so I am sure you have time management down pat). I think you should go for it! The key is to not work TOO much.</p>
<p>I try to be studious. Being depressed can really affect your study habits. I used to be really really motivated but now it’s hard. I am seeking help though to bring me back on track. Sorry for the unnecessary info and thanks so much for your input. I see you go to NYU. That’s one of my college choices. I love New York City even though I’ve never been there.</p>