This year, Laulea Meyer, a junior at Sacred Hearts Academy, started her first retail job at Ala Moana Center; a job that turned out to be more than just folding clothes. 

She specifically chose to work at PacSun because she had been looking for a job since moving into town. PacSun was hiring, so she decided to apply and got an interview. Meyer had never worked in retail before. The first PacSun store opened in 1980 in California. Since then, this store has become a popular addition to Ala Moana Center.

Meyer works once or twice a week for five-hour shifts. Upon arriving, she checks in and sees her manager for a quick rundown of all their sales and anything else important for her to know about the store. Her work days are quite typical. Meyer gets assigned a certain role like cashier, dressing room assistant or store greeter.

She manages her school schedule and job responsibilities by using time management. Academic Collaboration Period (ACP) and Study Hall periods help her tackle schoolwork, so she has more time to work. She is also heavily involved in paddling, and she doesn’t have much free time outside of school. Meyer learned that schoolwork does come first for her. She can always take off of work or find someone to cover if needed. 

However, Meyer encounters some challenges along the way. One challenge is transportation. Meyer usually has to take the bus to work, and if it was delayed or if her work-study duties take longer than expected, she might not make it to work on time. 

Her mom was mainly concerned about her working, especially since many would agree that junior year is the most important year in high school. She promised to take off of work if her grades started dropping. 

“My parents have always been supportive of me. They love to see me making my own money and working,” Meyer said. 

When asked if she enjoys working, she said, “I do enjoy working. It’s given me a new perspective on life, and it taught me financial responsibilities and how to manage my time.”