Have you ever been the target of someone’s incessant complaining about how their crispy seasoned waffle fries are too crispy and seasoned?

Or have you ever been called an idiot because your ketchup-to-mustard ratio on a burger was not quite right?

Then you, my friend, have never had the privilege of working in the food service industry.

I say “privilege” both light-heartedly and seriously. While it is dehumanizing to get yelled at by a customer for the cheese on their cheeseburger not being “cheesy enough,” it is experiences like that I am actually grateful for.

For one thing, these types of complaints and experiences have given me capability the act poise in any dire (or ridiculous) situation. Never underestimate a customer’s ability to find something to complain about. It amazes me that with all of the things going on in the world, a customer can make the complaints about a fast food meal seem like it is neck and neck with all of the injustice going on outside of the door. Nonetheless, it is important to match that customer’s complaint with empathy and patience—even if it is just about a gyro.

It has also taught me the importance of hard work. The restaurant I work at is a small business owned by a man and his mother. The pair have been running and working at the restaurant every day for over 20 years. Every shift, I am always working with one of or both of the owners, which gives me the opportunity to know who and what I am working for: a family with a strong work ethic and passion for business. I also always have someone to lean on if I cannot handle a customer on my own or if I have any questions. Knowing who my bosses are beyond just their names makes me appreciate and respect their business more than if they were strangers who just popped in once in a while.

This job has helped me outside of the kitchen and restaurant—it has helped me with my organizational skills overall. This job has been a part of my schedule since freshman year of college, giving me not only necessary funds but also structure. I am currently enrolled in my busiest semester yet as I balance an internship, classes, my position as editor-in-chief of the Warbler Yearbook and the positions I hold in my sorority. This job has taught me to have responsibility and accountability. I need a shift covered or switched? It is up to me to communicate with my coworkers and figure something out. I am having an issue that needs to be addressed? I need to be a mature adult and discuss it professionally. These are skills I have taken from my food service job and have been able to apply to every single one of my duties outside of the restaurant.

Working in the food service industry is something I recommend every college student or person experiences. The things you will take away from it will teach you not only how to be a decent employee, but also a decent human being in general. It is not always glamorous, but it is infinitely rewarding in ways you would not expect unless you try it out for yourself.

Remember to always tip generously and complain with tact. And if you are on the other side of things, remember that this job will benefit you outside of the paycheck.

Carole Hodorowicz is a senior journalism major. She can be reached at 581-2812 or at cdhodorowicz@eiu.edu.