By Tausif Salim

With the Puja and the Eid just around the corner, the city is getting dressed for the festivities. This also means that everyone is looking forward to earning some quick bucks. As for us teens, the need for money could never be too little. (Think in the lines of concerts, phone bills, pool, CD's...etc.) Being a teenager incurs costs, and if your parents pay the whole of it, you are one of the few lucky brats. As for the rest not-so-lucky ones, odd jobs could be the only answer.

The concept of odd jobs is not new in the local context, and is ever more thriving now. With the growth of the malls and eateries in Dhaka, the need for young, energetic people has grown exponentially. More and more students are availing a part-time job to earn some pocket money, or just for the fun side of it.

Even to this date, most of such jobs in Dhaka revolve around the academic arena. Students, having passed their S.S.C or O' levels, look for part time jobs in schools or coaching centres, or go for private tutoring. The question arises as to why schools or coaching centres should hire students who do not have a formal degree, let alone the experience. When we talked to the officials of a few such institutions, they more or less echoed the same feelings. "I hire students only when I am sure about their capability", said an official of a renowned institution, seeking anonymity. "Their inexperience is somewhat compensated as they, compared to the professionals, are more adaptable to the young students. In addition these students are more familiar with the latest concepts, and changes in syllabus."

When we talked to Rita, an A' level student teaching at a school, her feelings were a bit contrasting. "They hire us because they can get away by paying lower salaries." she said. "We understand the problems of the kids even better than the senior teachers can. It is plain unfair why we are treated with less importance."

Other than teaching, university representation is a job that is gaining momentum in the academic sector. Most universities need young, smart and dynamic people to represent them at various fairs and seminars. The only two things you will require are basic smartness, and fluency in both English and Bangla. Such jobs also help one to develop his/her communication skills.

For those who feel they have already had enough of schools and studying, there are other options available as well. 'Cats Eye', one of the leading menswear producers of the country, is providing opportunity for young guys who are still in universities or colleges. "The best thing about students is their fashion sense..." an official was quoted as saying. "They quickly understand the needs of the customers and the interaction is also very good." he added. The working hours at Cats Eye are from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. with a break in between for lunch. The salary is good, and increases as the employee gets more experienced with time. They also arrange a training session for the newcomers.

The chic interior of Ecstasy is not any less attractive a workplace. According to them, fluency in English is a crucial factor that students provide. "Students with fluency in English are very important, especially while interacting with foreign customers." an official said. "We have two shifts, one from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and the other from 4 p.m. up to 11 p.m. This way, students can have more flexibility in choosing their time according to their schedule." Overall Ecstasy offers a complete package where one can do enough studying to secure the grades, and earn enough to pay the bills for the dates.

We talked to Afsana, an honours student working at Pizza hut, and her beaming face pretty much told us the story. "I am 99.99% satisfied. The bosses are really nice and friendly, the pay is good, and most importantly the working environment is fantastic." When asked if she had faced any problems from her friends or family, she cleared all such doubts with a shake of the ponytail. "My family is very open-minded and they have been very supportive. I know this is a bit uncommon job for a girl, but it's high time things change." Raihan, a student of Dhaka College also working there told us something about his own experience: "I work here 8-9 hours everyday, but I haven't faced much problem regarding my studies. Actually it's all about how one organises his schedule."

Being asked to elaborate on the issue, the manager of the place pointed out the togetherness. "We are like a big family working together in here. The students adapt well to the environment, and make friends with each other very quickly." When asked about the social taboo against such jobs he quickly brushed away such ideas. "These days people don't call these 'odd jobs' anymore. It's all about learning to respect all kinds of jobs, and no one is bothered about those age-old ideas."

Availing a part-time job is really the 'in' thing, even if there are no financial concerns. It helps one to learn a lot of things and at the same time can be a great source of recreation. Studying is not hampered as long as you know how to manage your time well, and who knows? This experience could actually act as a plus point in the university applications (ECA's). So for those who are still thinking, start getting your CV's ready, and dive into the arena…

(The names of the concerned individuals have been changed to protect privacy.)