This stereotypical high school summer job can serve the community interests and provide personal benefits, as senior Will Mack and Junior Avery Smith have experienced.
“I wanted to become a lifeguard because my dad was a lifeguard, I thought it would be an easy summer job, and I could get a tan at the same time,” Mack said.
Mack has been a lifeguard for the past two years at Lifetime. He enjoys being able to work with other high schoolers and welcomes the opportunity to be a role model for younger kids.
Smith recognizes the social aspect of the job.
“I am going to be a lifeguard at Champions because I know friends that work there,” Smith said.
Smith has finished her training to become a lifeguard but is still waiting to start her job this summer. She is planning on working at Champion’s Country Club.
“I am going to love being a lifeguard because I have already met several new people while in training,” Smith said.
As with many jobs, the opportunity to meet students from around the city can be a draw as well.
“There are certain requirements that are mandatory for all lifeguards to pass,” Mack said. “I was naturally a good swimmer so I did not have to train a lot.”
Mack had to swim 300 meters straight, swim 20 meters and pick up a brick off a 12 foot deep pool, then carry it back in a minute and a half. He also had to do a full submerged victim save and also perform CPR on a dummy. He did all of his training through the city of Omaha.
“My favorite part about being a lifeguard is being able to work outside and sit in the sun,” Mack said.
There are not many jobs that allow a person to chill and relax like lifeguards do.
“I have never had to make a save,” Mack said. “One time though, I had to take someone else’s place while they were making a save.”
While both guards appreciate some of the perks of the job, they don’t take their responsibly lightly. Every shift they recognize that they could be saving someone’s life.