Broadneck Teen Jobs, Part 3: Big Vanilla

Since its establishment as a tennis and racquetball club in 1977, the has become the place for Broadneck residents to get healthy and remain fit. Not only does Big Vanilla sport a floor full of exercise equipment and its very own rock wall, it also boasts a strong staff, and has built a reputation as being a great place for teen employment.

Teen jobs at Big Vanilla run the gamut, from checking in gym members to cleaning and manning the pool, to looking after the small children involved in the gym’s in-house daycare Kids Club. But while the jobs may sound simple, the work is in no way less enjoyable.

Each employee goes through an application process, generally involving a written portion and interview. Most of the younger employees admitted that they originally applied to spend more time with their friends, and ended up genuinely enjoying their job.

“Its actually a lot of fun to work here,” said a very cheery Victoria Davidson, Kids Club attendant and Broadneck High alumni. “The only downside is how busy we get in the mornings and evenings, and even then, all we do is tidy up and keep an eye on the kids.”

While most teens and young adults would think it would be more exciting to be in gym areas like rock climbing wall, there are quite a few teens working at the front desk and at the pool, who have jobs they say are equally as fun.

“We welcome and check people in,” said Allison Guerra, Broadneck High student and pool receptionist. “We work pretty decent hours, I never have to be here really late.”

The younger Big Vanilla staff, both teenagers and young adults, agree that the athletic club provides a non-stressful place to work where teens can make some money and help their neighbors at the same time.