BY BLAINE BUG CREW
While most kids are hitting the pool or gaming it up in the basement, some young people choose to get a job and not only get a paycheck, but also learn valuable skills they can use in their own career path in the future. Here are some of the benefits members of the crew identified while working a summer job.
Sienna – I am usually a quieter person around new people, but the bug crew changed my shy personality. Bug crew is all about talking to new people and educating them about bugs and noxious weeds. It has begun to be my favorite part of bug crew because it helps me get out of my comfort zone, and to be confident. This part of the job will help me talk to people, and to not be nervous around others in the future.
Joselyn – I learned something about myself this summer. I was working in the field out in the sun when I became nauseated and dizzy. I told my boss my situation and he told me that it was best if I took a break. I took a few minutes to ground myself and then jumped back into work. I realized in my life that I will be faced with many uncomfortable and maybe even hard situations. It’s okay to take a break, but refocusing and giving my best effort will ensure my success in the future.
Liberty – I’m normally a very self-conscious person who is scared of putting myself out there. This has made my life difficult, up until recently when I joined bug crew. When I met my crew for the first time, I was extremely nervous and thought that I wouldn’t be accepted. I soon realized that my crew was amazing. They were so nice to me and they didn’t judge me. I finally put myself out there and they still accepted me for who I was. I eventually grew to love my crew, and now we joke all the time. My favorite part of bug crew is my crew. They are so supportive of everyone. My boss is really awesome, too. I have learned that in life you have to learn how to get along with people’s different personalities and attitudes, and that no matter what, there will almost always be someone who is cheering you on and always supporting you no matter the circumstance.
Genesis – When I came to bug crew I originally just wanted a summer job. However, this has become much more than a source of income. Throughout my life I haven’t enjoyed strict rules or closely monitored routines. I had come to expect it when doing bug crew. While it has come with a strict routine, it has not been hard to adjust. With the routine comes teamwork I rarely see outside of here. Everyone has a unique job that everyone works at with fully focused minds and a good attitude. Even when things do not go as planned, we can fix it with our teamwork, giving us lessons to apply to our adult lives. In life there are many rules you will have to follow for various reasons, whether you are trying to impress your boss or simply be kind. These rules are there for a reason and allow you to be better at what you do.
Bug crew members bring various skills, talents, and attributes to the job. As they learn to work together, rely on each other, and accomplish the tasks each day, they are preparing for a productive work life after high school. Summer work can become an investment in yourself.
