While many teenagers enjoyed vacations and spent time in their rooms playing video games over the summer, Logan James decided to work the pumps at the Savannah Rubis gas station, earning money for his education.
“I just have the money saved up for college,” James, 13, told the Compass.
But his salary isn’t the only way his pockets are getting filled. Customers can’t resist being charitable to the soft-spoken youngster, who is doing honest labour.
“They’re nice, everyone gives a little, one or two dollars. It helps,” he said.
While it is common to see minors working in grocery stores as baggers, it is rare to see them greeting those looking to get gas, but James noted that customers have been encouraging and kind since he started.
“They tell me to keep it up, and you’re doing a good job, stuff like that,” James said.
Like the customers, his co-workers also praise his efforts as a young man who is taking a different path than most teenagers, and trying to learn the ropes of the ‘real world’.
Benjie Rivers, a fellow station worker, sang James’ praises.
“He is very friendly, open and very hard-working,” Rivers told the Compass. “Since he’s been working here, [he’s been the] top employee.”
The young man, who has been learning on the job, noted that co-workers like Rivers correct his errors and help him improve.
When it comes to employing young people, according to the law, children aged between 10 and 16 are permitted to legally work a maximum of eight hours on any six days during the week while schools are on break.
Additionally, when schools are in session, only students on approved work experience can obtain employment.
James admitted if he weren’t working, he’d be at home playing video games, and added he likes the job.
“The guys teach me how to do the work, it’s easy, it’s nice,” he said.
He noted he realised that working from a young age can also help him understand how things will be when he is an adult.
“I think it is very important,” he said. “It builds work ethic, and it helps you get a grasp of what you’ll do in the real world.”
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