Dear Marilyn,
I don’t drink or anything like that, but I do really enjoy going to good local shows and concerts.
A lot of the entertainers that I like play in venues that require the patrons to be over 21. I am only 19, almost 20.
I am contemplating getting a fake ID solely for the purpose of getting in and seeing the artists and performers that I like.
Marilyn Tortolano
I know that it is definitely not the smartest idea in the world due to the possible consequences if I were to get caught.
And, truthfully, I am not a super lucky person, so if someone were to get caught with a fake ID, it would be me.
I know that you are probably going to advise me to just be patient and wait for the year and change that I have left before I turn 21, but sometimes waiting isn’t the most exciting thing in the world.
So, I would appreciate your feedback on this idea.
Signed, Impatient
Dear Impatient,
You guessed right. I am not going to ever advise that anyone get a fake ID for any reason.
At the age of 19, waiting for a year to do something one wants to do still seems like a long time. By the way, and I’m sure that you have heard this before, the time passes a lot more quickly when a person gets older.
So, you are going to have to consider other options. You can listen to recorded music. You can go to other types of shows and concerts that do not require the patrons to be 21.
If you do decide to experiment with other styles of music that don’t have age requirements for attendance, you are going to broaden your horizons.
You will be exposed to artists and music that is not the type that you currently enjoy. Though you may think you will be bored, or not have a good time, you may be surprised. You may have a lot more fun than you think you will.
Either way, be patient. Your 21st birthday will be here before you know it. And I know exactly how you can spend that special day.
Dear Marilyn,
I am a college student, and I go to school full-time, four days a week. The way my schedule is spaced, I can’t work at a part-time job on any of those days.
I really want a job, and my mom is constantly nagging me about getting one. But I don’t see how I can do it.
I can’t see telling an employer in a job interview that I am only available three days a week. I’m sure that I would not be selected.
I have called a past employer, and they told me that they need open availability, so I can’t get my old job back.
I pick up random babysitting jobs here and there, but honestly it isn’t consistent enough for me to make the money that I need.
Do you have suggestions for me?
Signed, Stressed Student,
Dear Stressed,
First of all, you are not correct that all employers will only consider college students that are available each day. I agree that most employers would find that to be preferable, but it doesn’t mean that you wouldn’t have a shot.
It will be probably take you longer to find a job than if you had more availability, but don’t give up. Keep going to interviews. Be personable and show that you would be a smart and dedicated employee, and you may be selected.
Right now is the perfect time for you to be looking for part time work. Many places are hiring for holiday help. You will be on winter break for some of that time, and would be available more days then as well.
Once you are in, and have proven yourself to be a great employee, you will have a chance at being asked to stay on even if you are only available on weekends. Also, you may have a more flexible schedule next semester.
So, get out there and hustle. Good luck.
Dear Readers, please send your questions and problems to Dear Marilyn, c/o Garden Grove Journal, 12866 Main St., #203, Garden Grove, Ca. 92840. Or send an email to mtortolano@ggjournal.com.
