In the bustling world of teenage life, demands of school, work and social life often collide. For Jasper Forgey, time management has become second nature as he regularly navigates an intense schedule.

Forgey got his first job at 14 years old as a dishwasher at the Ypsilanti Food Co-op where he stayed for about one year. In the last two weeks, Forgey has begun a new job as a busser at Mani Osteria and Bar. 

“[Ypsilanti Food Co-op] was very solitary, but I found [Mani Osteria and Bar] to be a very fun place to work.” Forgey said. “It’s a lot. It’s a lot more fun to work there.” 

Though Forgey has a new job, the usual schedule strains and stress are still present. Last week, Forgey worked three shifts, totaling to 15 hours. The latest clock-out time for him was 11:20 p.m, yet items such as calc homework, piano practice, and eating dinner were still on his to-do list. With such intense hours, a little planning goes a long way. 

By planning a strict schedule, Forgey can avoid getting caught up scrolling on Instagram or with other unimportant tasks. This planning routine takes many forms, such as a mental run-through or writing it down. It’s all a balancing act: homework is completed when not working, shifts are devoted to hard work, and his social life fills in the gaps.

Though Forgey enjoys working, he also believes it is a pillar in productivity and character. 

“I think I’m a pretty hard worker,” Forgey said. “I’ve learned more in a restaurant than I ever would at university. I think working in a restaurant is an important experience for most. I think that more people should work in restaurants.”

In addition to a prosperous work environment and beneficial skills, Forgey also makes money at his job. With a low-mileage car and an extensive commute between school, work and home, gas is a cumulative expense. 

Additionally, having money is always a benefit, regardless of the situation. Forgey’s employment leaves him flexible to drop a few dollars on any given purchase, such as clothing, a sweet treat, or pencil led. 

Forgey believes everyone should work if feasible. Employment provides new perspectives and skills that cannot be harnessed in a school environment.