Many teenagers across the Tennessee Valley are looking for summer jobs. But officials say this summer may be one hardest times for teens to find jobs. According to the Bureau of Labor three out of four teenagers won't be able to get jobs this summer. The official unemployment rate for teens is 25 percent.
But all the bad news didn't stop 16 year old Emma Brannon from finding her first summer job at Point Mallard in Decatur. She says it was very easy finding work and is thankful for the opportunity. "It's real exciting for me to have a job because I'm not used to having this responsibility and it makes you ready for the future of being an adult" Brannon said. "You have to be on time, be responsible and know what you're doing".
Point Mallard is a popular place where kids go during the summer to beat the heat. Theres a high dive, water slides and of course the giant wave pool. The fun park employees 280 people, 80-percent are teenagers like 16 year old Emma Brannon who works in the gift shop. But officials say teens like Brannon and others at Point Mallard are in the minority. This summer may be one of the worse for teenagers ages 16 through 19 looking for employment.
David Berkowitz says adults are taking the summer the jobs that teenagers usually get because of the poor economy and because many need the work. Berkowitz is a marketing professor at UA-Huntsville. "I think adults are more mature, responsible and they can work hours that teens can't work" Berkowitz said. "When your teen comes home and tells you I can't find a job, there might be more truth to that this year".
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