[lordnacho]

But it's reasonable, isn't it?

I've washed dishes and cleaned toilets. I don't think it did anything to improve my knowledge of engineering, programming, economics, and so on. I don't think it helped me start businesses later on. I don't think there was anything learned that wasn't known already: it's physically and mentally tiring to wash dishes and clean toilets. Eventually my parents decided my time was better spent studying and let me off my duties.

If it had existed back then, I would have been better off spending my time studying programming. Or making a radio.

The admissions officer argument is an American thing, it's not a huge deal in Europe. But it's hard to see how a kid who is headed for college, and probably something technical, is better off doing menial work than just studying, anywhere. If you can do something to boost your earnings in a few years, do so. What's the big deal if you miss out on a few grand when you're in your mid teens?

[dnadler]

I think the big deal comes when lower-class teens work to help support their families. The fact that work doesn't matter to admissions officers only exacerbates their disadvantage.

[mixmastamyk]

It likely improved your appreciation and motivation.

There are many posts here describing the valuable lesson of holding down a job, showing up on time, and appreciation for the benefits an education can bring. Some kids desperately need this, especially those not able postpone gratification.