Part-time or full-time work? (My first job in the US)?

[Anonymous]

I just moved here in the US last September, I've been living and working in the Philippines.

I applied to school districts because my husband is a teacher and we want to have similar vacations.

I have a Bachelor of Science in Hotel and Restaurant Management and I've worked as a Shift Manager in restaurants.

I am fortunately able to get a job offer from the school district in our city as a cafeteria worker but it's only part-time. Although it's just 20 mins away from home.

Then, another school district invited me for testing. If I pass that, I still need to have an interview, and they would still have to contact my references. It's full-time, but an hour away from home.

The pay rate is similar, the only difference is the part-time and full-time. Same position. And the distance from home.

The thing is, I'm about to start with the first school district.

What should I do?

Updates

2 mo

If I get hired by the full time option, I will be riding with my husband to and from work because his school will be nearby but we would have to wake up way earlier like 4am and sleep by 8pm.

[Oliverlogan263]

Here are a few things to consider:

As your first job in the US, a part-time position that's close to home might be an easier transition. The hours would be more flexible since it's only part-time, and the shorter commute would be less stressful.

However, financially a full-time job is usually better for the long run. You'd get benefits too since it's full-time. And work experience in a full-time role looks better if you want to apply to other/higher positions later on.

Since the other school district is still in the process of interviews/references, I'd maybe take the part-time job you already have an offer for now. It gives you income right away while you're going through the full-time application process.

If/when you get an offer from the full-time position, you can decide then if it's worth it to change jobs based on all the details like hours, pay, commute etc. At least this way you're not waiting without any income.

The hour commute for the full-time job might be tough at first too. Having the part-time job to start will let you get settled in the area better first before taking on longer hours/travel each day.

Either way I'm sure you'll do great! Starting a job and moving countries is very brave. I hope it all works out for you! Let me know if any other questions come up.

[Staximus]

You should go on the website called Indeed and look for restaurant manager jobs in your area.

[Staximus]

Go online and search for hotels in your area, the big ones will have restaurants. They need managers and you can apply online on their company website

[Staximus]

School districts pay their cafeteria workers more than other places and you get benefits and all summer off, if there's no summer school shifts

[Staximus]

But you could get a better job with your experience and education

[Staximus]

But you won't have summers off

[Asker]

Yeah, they usually go camping during summer, so I wanna be able to join.