Answer:
Me: Mom, Dad, I understand you want me to get a part-time job to earn some money, but I'm really worried about taking on more responsibility right now with my schoolwork.
Parent: We think a job would be good for you to learn some valuable skills and make your own spending money. It wouldn't have to be many hours each week.
Me: I know you see the benefits, but my coursework is really demanding. I'm already struggling to balance my studies with extracurricular activities and having any social life. If I take on a job too, I'm afraid my grades will suffer.
Parent: Your grades are important, but so are life experiences. A lot of kids hold down jobs and do well in school. It will teach you time management.
Me: You're right that work experience is useful. Maybe over the summer it would be fine, but right now I really need to focus on school. What if we revisit the idea after midterms, when I'll have a better sense of my workload? That way if I have more free time then I could consider a small weekend job.
Parent: Fair enough. We don't want your grades to slip either. Let's check in after midterms and see how things are going then. Just try to keep your commitments limited for now, okay?
Me: I will, thank you for understanding. School is my priority right now but I promise I'll look for other ways to earn and save money this year.
Parent: Okay, deal. Just let us know if you start struggle with anything. We're here to help.
Me: I will, thanks Mom and Dad.
