The Economy is looking up…..for teens at least
By: Bridgit Bowden

                At the beginning of last summer, I went on my very first job hunt.  Little did I know that the middle of a recession is the hardest time for anyone to get a new job, especially a teen.  In May 2009, the national jobless rate had skyrocketed to almost 10 percent.  Jobs were being cut everywhere, leaving more and more people searching for employment. 

                There is an old saying that says “the easiest time to find a new job is when you already have a job.”  Last May, I discovered that that is entirely true.  I filled out a dozen applications, and heard back from none.  I called each establishment, and tried to set up interviews.  Only actually two agreed to an interview.  Both said that although they thought I was fully capable, they had other candidates with more work experience than me. 

                So, they hired workers who had previous employment.  Workers who had been fired from higher-paying office jobs, but needed work, so took whatever was available.  Unfortunately for me and the rest of the teens seeking a first-time summer job, all the jobs went to those people.  Eventually I did find a job, but it was only because I have a special skill; I can teach dance.  However other teenage job-seekers were not so lucky.    

                Since then, the jobless rate has risen to around 15 percent, but has now fallen back to around 10 percent.  But there is one clue that this summer may be better for teen job-seekers.  I have received calls from both establishments I interviewed with last year, and one email from an application I sent.  All wanted to know if I am still looking for a job, because they are now hiring.  

                Although it is difficult for us to see the economic recovery, something must be improving.  If part-time employers are now hiring, than some of the desperate workers who lost their jobs must have gone back to full-time work.  So, the economy is definitely looking up now, especially for teens seeking a summer job.