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Hover-parented girl wants help finding herself
Dear Straight Talk: My parents have always dominated my life. I’m a junior at a college I hate. I play college sports and a musical instrument I'd rather not play. I’ve never worked, being too busy being "enriched." I sound…
6 Comments
Is boss out to lunch regarding wages?
Dear Straight Talk: My boss keeps telling me young people have it easy today. But I’ve worked 40 hours a week at $12 an hour for eight months and have been unsuccessful at saving money for college. I ride a bicycle six miles to work,…
5 Comments
Kids in hard-hit family not pulling weight
Dear Straight Talk: I have two daughters in college. Due to the recession, our economic situation changed drastically since they were in high school, where they enjoyed private schools, lessons, cars, trips abroad, etc. How do I get…
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Boy, parents at odds over gap year
Dear Straight Talk: I'm slated to head off to college in August, but I want to take a gap year in South America first. I have savings and will work as I go. I think immersing in a different culture is good for Americans. My parents…
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Need a job? Clip this column!
Dear Straight Talk: My 16-year-old son has started looking for a summer job and is having a tough time. I have a feeling he is not presenting himself well throughout the process. I remember an article you wrote a few years ago with…
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Making a better world, Part II
DEAR READERS: Each New Year I ask the panelists: What bugs you most about the world? How would you make the world better? Last week's “better world” column covered concerns about how digital networking has diminished face-to-face…
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Facebook: It’s amazing who’s looking at your posts!
DEAR STRAIGHT TALK: When are kids going to learn that anything posted on the Internet is potentially exposed to the world? As a hiring manager, I am floored by the number of applicants…
1 Comment
College kids give tips on stretching a dollar
DEAR STRAIGHT TALK: I’m leaving for college this week and am nervous about finances. I have taken out loans, a grant helps with my dorm and tuition, but there’s not enough to…
0 Comments
Earning money when you’re under 16
DEAR STRAIGHT TALK: I need to raise $300 for driver training in August so I can get my learner’s permit. I don’t like little kids so baby-sitting is out of the question. Mowing…
1 Comment
Teen need a job? Clip this column!
DEAR STRAIGHT TALK: I’ve been trying to get work at a fast food place with no luck. I’m 16 and I’ve never had a job before and there are so many kids applying. How can…
