Waitresses experience difficult working conditions even when they are not harassed. Few waiters have health insurance or other workplace benefits and often can't afford to take time off when they're sick. Shifts are irregular in many restaurants, making it difficult for waitresses to organize the care of children or the elderly. Marie Billiel, who has worked in the restaurant industry for 10 years, talks about wearing a “mask” for eight straight hours.
A ruined college student is not a degree I like to carry. To offset my many expenses (don't discount tuition), I got a job. One of the most popular jobs college students get is to serve. I currently serve tables at an Asian fusion restaurant five days a week and earn more than enough money to cover my expenses.
Fair warning, serving isn't just rainbows and sun—and it's not for everyone. Even though I was able to handle it, I wish someone had warned me before I became a server. As I said, I've worked in practically all types of restaurants and bars, which not only helps me get the best jobs now, but it also means that I can be demanding if I want to get a permanent job in a restaurant. I was fired about two years ago and I wanted to get down to something quick.
I found another job in the field I was in before, but I continued to serve and have been there ever since.
