Recently, I had the chance to talk to Canyon High School student Ricardo Perez and asked how he manages his time between school and work. I asked him what his schedule was like and he said, “After I get out of school at 4:30, I go straight to work at 5:00, then don’t get off [until] 11:00 and I repeat the same process basically all week.” 

I followed up with how Ricardo is able to get schoolwork done with the busy schedule. He replied, “It’s tough and challenging, but I try to get it done right after work for about 2 hours and go right to sleep or get up early in the morning and try to finish.” 

If this isn’t challenging, I don’t know what is. Many students don’t have jobs and get to do their work without any hassle. Ricardo said he has been working for two years and plans to keep working. He said the most stressful thing about it is,  “Constantly having to get up and do the same thing everyday.“ 

Hearing those words made me wonder how my parents feel each and every day. I think it is a good thing to learn at a young age about responsibility and hearing this from a fellow student is eye opening and makes me wonder what I want to do with my life. 

I appreciate Ricardo Perez for taking the time out of his day to tell his story. Join me in wishing the best for him and his journey.