The Christmas season brings with it the joy of lights, trees, carols and, of course, shopping. Most Christmas consumers deal with the hassles of long lines, sold-out items and overspending. However, these problems can pale in comparison to what workers may deal with.
Many student workers find juggling increased hours at their regular jobs or taking on additional seasonal jobs can complicate their busy lives, adding stress in the process.
"People go in and out and it's amazing how busy it gets," said senior Malisa McLeod, who manages McDonald's in WalMart, working 40 hours a week. McLeod claims that there is much more chaos during the holiday season, such as muddy floors and longer hours.
In addition, average student workers see their hours double during the holidays, according to Mike Lund, the manager at Herberger's Junior Jan Waatti, who works at the Sportsman and Ski Haus, has noticed few slow times when working the holiday rush.
"I worked last weekend and we were steady the whole time," said Waatti. "Plus, the store is emptying out (of items)."
Even though Waatti is a cashier, she found herself gift-wrapping to help out the overly busy hired wrappers.
Students also find it difficult to manage the increase in time they spend working as Christmas break approaches.
"I have a lot more hours during Christmas," said senior Carrie Bartolini, who works at Orange Julius. "I have everything due (in class) and I have more at work too."
For some students, buying gifts for friends and family presents a problem for their budget. But the Christmas season also offers more opportunities to find a job. Many of these jobs are just for extra Christmas help.
"I work at Flowers by Hanson," said junior Anna Brady. "I needed money for Christmas so I took the job. It's probably just a holiday job, but it might extend past Christmas. But the extra money has helped me buy gifts."
Balancing holiday jobs and school work, many students find it difficult to relax and enjoy the holiday season.
Said McLeod: "Between school and work, sometimes I wonder if it's worth it."