Despite Bleak Outlook, U.S. Teens Expect to Find Work This Summer

Summertime, but Living Not Easy: Teens looking for summer jobs face a dwindling number of opportunities, especially if the economy sags and home values don’t bounce back. Junior Achievement, a Colorado Springs, Colorado, organization that prepares young people to enter the workforce, says traditional sectors for summer employment are suffering the effects. That includes retailing and restaurant/hospitality. Even so, students in a Junior Achievement jobs poll remain optimistic, with nearly 89 percent saying they expect to land a position this summer in spite of the obstacles. Nearly one-quarter say they want jobs in retailing or sales, while roughly 19 percent eye work in fast-food or other restaurants. About 35 percent of young girls want to work to help pay for college. Nearly one in four boys cite the need for extra spending money.