Journey on the field

By Claire Bott

Miguel Sanchez is 17 years old, and it's his last year at Yerba Buena High School. He started working at age 16 and started to learn about discipline and the responsibilities of hard work, and money.  Miguel says that starting a job at a young age has already taught him a lot about what real life is like.

Sanchez talks about how he started his first job with his uncle. It taught him a lot about responsibility and how he has to work hard for his money. He enjoys helping his uncle, which has created a better bond with him. “He taught me a lot just by working with him”, showing how he appreciates him a lot. He and his uncle would work long hours in the heat, working on construction projects. He would end up learning how to use many tools safely and correctly.

Miguel talks about the challenges of working in the hot sun. He talks about how school and work can be stressful, but they taught him life lessons, He said, “Having the responsibility and being able to make money helps me grow as a person.” He also says that working in tough places shows him that nothing in life is easy. Miguel believes that these things he has to do make him stronger and prepare him for when he's an adult

His work is hard and tiring, but he says that it's very rewarding in the end, getting the paycheck and experience. Miguel also explains how working has made him appreciate the value of money more because every dollar takes time and effort to earn. He says that having his own money makes him feel more responsible.” Getting to learn how to work basically is something I'm happy I got the chance to do”. Miguel also feels proud knowing that he can save up for things that matter to him. 

He says that having school and work is not easy, but it keeps him focused and motivated to do better in life. Miguel feels proud when he can help his family with the money he makes, and for himself. As he said, “it's a good feeling knowing that you can provide for yourself”.

 Even though there are days when he feels tired, he knows that having a job helps him practice for the future. He explains that working has helped him manage his time better, and he makes sure he keeps up with both his schoolwork and job. Miguel believes that these experiences are making him more independent and getting him ready for life after high school.