[Student Reporters] Students Take Summer Jobs

Min-Woo Park / <10th, Palos Verdes Peninsula HS>

As students gradually ease their way into school this September many look back at this summer not only as time away from the hectic atmosphere of school life but also as a practical and productive means of giving back to the community.

Bradley Rava a sophomore at El Segundo High School recently passed his Red Cross Lifeguard test becoming a certified pool lifeguard. His four years of experience as a Junior Lifeguard gave him the confidence to accept a neighbor's offer for a summer job.

Each week this summer Bradley spent a couple of hours supervising children at the local pool. "I'm more responsible now when I'm at the pool or the beach. Knowing that I have the ability to save a life I've learned to be alert and sensitive to the people around me."

Philip Paik a junior at Palos Verdes Peninsula High School also volunteered as an assistant lifeguard this past year at the Torrance YMCA. His daily duties included cleaning the pool deck hosing the pools and helping out the lifeguards.

Chris Im a junior at Cerritos High School worked as an intern at the Office of Assembly Member Ted W. Lieu of the 53rd District. Although the dreary one-hour drive to the El Segundo branch office was often impeded by traffic Chris enjoyed the actual work itself.

Using the Legislative Constituent Management System Chris organized and managed hundreds of issues and bills concerning the district residents. Along with fourteen other interns Chris learned firsthand the legislative process of lawmaking and had the opportunity to expand his social networking.

From labor rallies to town hall meetings Chris an outgoing and driven student met distinguished political leaders like Alexander Kim Deputy Director and Community Liaison to the Asian American community in Governor Schwarzenegger's LA Office. When asked what aspect of the internship made it appealing Chris replied "You get to meet all types of people who are willing to listen to you and the people they serve."

Michael Takata a sophomore at Peninsula High Scjpp; used his love of soccer to earn extra money this summer by supervising and teaching at two local youth soccer camps. "I'm saving up for a car" said Michael who hopes to drive around a sporty BMW by the end of this year with a shrug.

When school finally begins students will be sure to appreciate the responsibility social skills and attentiveness they have developed from their summer jobs.