For East High School junior Darion Nelson, starting as the new courtesy clerk at Hy-Vee on Gordon Drive was a nice change of pace.
“I’ve just always been shy and socially awkward, but after I started working here I’ve felt a lot better,” he said. “I can go up to people and have a conversation. It has helped me with being shy.”
His first day in September was understandably nerve-wracking.
"I didn't know what to expect," he admitted. "It ended up being OK though. I've already made some friends."
He also works at Hollister Co. in the Southern Hills Mall, which has a different environment than the grocery chain, said Nelson, 17.
“I think at Hollister it’s a calmer atmosphere, but here it’s more normal to be outspoken and have a conversation with a customer,” he said.
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As with every job, there are good and bad elements. Nelson considers collecting outside garbage and retrieving rogue carts from the parking lot the worst tasks of the day as he prefers to interact with customers.
“Recently I’ve learned how to cashier and I really like that,” he said. “It’s actually easier than bagging groceries.”
Nelson wanted to work for Hy-Vee because of the work availability and atmosphere.
“I’ve heard so much about them giving people opportunities to work, so I applied,” said Nelson. “After a couple days, they called me back and I interviewed and got hired.”
Finding time for school, two jobs and a social life is no easy task, but Nelson manages to make it work.
“I try to get as much done as I can at school and if I don’t get my things done, I do it after work,” he said. “It’s a lot of work, but before I had my first job, I felt incomplete. Working makes me feel like I’m pushing forward and being successful. I want to be successful in all that I can.”
But does he sleep?
“Probably not as much as I should,” he said with a laugh.
Nelson credits his work ethic to his parents who have always encouraged him to be his best.
“My parents never went to college so they’ve pushed me to finish my education,” he said.
His determination isn’t just limited to work. Nelson is on track to graduate from high school in December 2015, a semester early.
After that, Nelson plans to begin at Western Iowa Tech Community College studying graphic design and motorcycle mechanics. From there, he is considering finishing his education in Los Angeles.
“Growing up, I’ve always been into music,” said Nelson, who sings in his band Beautiful Tragedies. “My parents have tons of videos of me singing and I love performing. I think Los Angeles would be a good fit for me.”
He hopes to find success in music, comedy or writing screenplays.
“I don’t believe just going to Los Angeles will bring me success, but I believe that because I’m willing to work so hard and not give up that I’ll find success.”
