Senior works part time at Pizza Studio

Senior Miles Peng grabs a handful of pepperonis, placing them in a circular pattern on the pizza in front of him. Finishing off the pizza with a pinch of basil, he carefully places the customized creation in the oven and moves on to his next customer.

This has become a usual routine for Peng, who recently started working at Pizza Studio in downtown Los Gatos on Blossom Hill Road. His roles include working as a cashier, prepping pizzas and placing them in the oven. He works on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday after school for a total of 12 hours a week.

“[My job] gives me good experience in a work environment that will help me in the future,” Peng said. “The extra money is good too.” Peng said he isn’t allowed to disclose what his wage is.

Although he started working to stay busy and earn extra cash to spend, Peng has found his job rewarding so far.

“It’s actually pretty fun making the pizzas and experimenting with them,” Peng said. “I also get pizzas for half price and free soft drinks [at Pizza Studio,] which is a pretty cool bonus.”

Through working at Pizza Studio, Peng has learned more about the importance of money.

“Things are actually really expensive, and it’s easy to spend a lot of money without realizing it,” he admitted.

Peng found out about the job about a month ago after his father saw a flier for job openings while at Philz Coffee in Los Gatos, located next to Pizza Studio. After completing an online application and in-person interview, Peng was offered a job and completed basic training for four days before starting.

Because he works four-hour shifts, Peng does not get home until 8 p.m. on the days he works and has learned to manage his time carefully.

“I do my homework immediately after I get home from work so I can get enough sleep,” Peng said. “I also eat [at Pizza Studio] frequently, so I don’t waste time eating dinner when I get home.”

Peng thinks more students should consider working.

“Just being in a work environment provides valuable experience you can’t get anywhere else,” Peng said. “Even a simple job like mine is extremely valuable.”