Students start getting part time jobs in high school. They might work a few hours every day after school. This gives them more freedom, because they no longer have to depend on their parents for dough. They can choose to spend their money however they feel like. Naturally, high school students are also busy doing homework and getting ready for college, but they are given the responsibility to decide for themselves how they want to spend their time. Having choices is one of the major characteristics of American high schools. When you are young, if you want some spending money, you will have to work for it. You have the choice. Most first jobs are: fast food clerk, cleaner, sales assistant, waiter etc. If your parents own their own business you will start your part-time job even earlier.