The Blog of P.U.R.E. and Sue Scheff

At first glance you would think this is a misprint, but after applying online to a health food store, a young college grad student was asked to provide his Facebook link as part of the application process.  Before doing this, he did change his photo, and this is not implying his photo was inappropriate, however really wasn't what you want a potential employer to view.  It was a silly photo of him and his friends on a Merry-Go-Round, not exactly a first impression you want a future employer to view or misunderstand. In reality, many employers and college admissions are viewing Facebook pages.  We don't need The Social Network movie that took the number one spot for two weeks in a row, to remind us of how powerful the Internet has become. Just recently, Jessica Bennett , wrote an amazing article for Newsweek - " What The Internet Knows About You ."  If you haven't read it, now would be a good time, and remember to pass it on to your friends and...

A Guide for Teens: How to Find a Summer or Part-Time Job by Randall S. Hansen, Ph.D. Even if summer vacation is still a few months away for most teens, now is the time to plan and lay a foundation for landing that cool summer job you really want. Some caveats: This article is really geared to older high school and college teens, with a focus on summer jobs, not internships. For younger teens (under 15), check out another article I wrote, Job Ideas for Teens 15 and Younger: Beyond Babysitting . For college students looking for internship tips, we’re working on such an article, but for now, please visit: Quintessential Careers: College Internship Resources . The Action Plan for Teens Wanting a Summer JobThe first step you need to do is decide on the summer job you want or need -– in terms of the type of job, the location, the hours, the pay. You may not be able to find a job that meets all your needs, but given the current employment situation you should strive to find one that meets as ...

With today's economy, many parents are working full time and/or two jobs leaving many teens home alone. Many will spend their days online - however it is important to get them involved in constructive activities outside the home. This can also help build self esteem! Is there a local Humane Society? A local Nursing Home that needs help? Maybe a Holiday Tree Stand that hires many teens to help carry the trees or deliver them? Booths in malls that wrap gifts? Jobs at movie theaters increase - check in your local area. Encourage your teen to get busy! Keeping your teen active can help prevent them from mixing and hanging out with peers that are less than desirable and looking for trouble. As difficult as it is, keep your lines of communication open! They may think they need a break from the structure of school and studies, but help them to see that all these activities could be fun! Parents, your employment is critical to feeding your family and keeping up with your mortgage or rent ...