Gabe Duenas started working at Burger King in the spring because he needed money to cover his expenses as a senior. “I don’t like how some of the workers there don’t come in with a positive attitude,” he said. Duenas knows the importance of attitude when on the job.  “When it comes to having a job, you should always make sure you are positive towards the customers,” he said.

Duenas puts in a lot of hours every week and that means that his paycheck covers a lot of his expenses. That’s not the only reason that he works, though. “I like being there in general and also getting to work with my best friend,” he said.

In the long run, it is about the experience. Working, even if it is in a fast-food job like his, can help teens earn experience and teach them good work ethics for after school when a full-time job becomes necessary.