DR. WALLACE: I love T.J. Maxx and Ross stores! It's a great shopping experience and I always visit these stores whenever I have free time, even though I only buy something occasionally.

I'm a senior in high school and my dad is going to allow me to get a part time job after the New Year's holiday.

Since I know and love these stores so well, does that mean I should seek employment at one of them? — I Love to Browse the Stores, via email

I LOVE TO BROWSE THE STORES: Absolutely! You'll likely interview quite well given your knowledge of those particular stores. And if you are able to become employed at one of these companies, your work time will be enjoyable in terms of the workplace environment.

Just be sure to follow all rules, communicate with your managers and coworkers, and even feel free to make a suggestion or two if you notice something that you feel can help the company and simultaneously make the shopping experience even better for the store's customers.

I CAN TAKE CARE OF MYSELF

DR. WALLACE: I'm 15 and my parents won't let me stay home alone while they go on vacation over the New Year's holiday for that entire weekend.

I think this is absurd since I'm an excellent student and I never get in trouble. I can definitely take care of myself. How can I get them to change their mind? — A Very Mature Girl of 15, via email

A VERY MATURE GIRL OF 15: This is your parents' call, and you'll need to respect their wishes. They must have a plan that involves a relative like an aunt or a grandparent who they plan to have stay with you.

I don't think I have any magic advice that will change their minds, but one thing you could consider is to see if you can stay at the home of one of your best friends with their family during this time.

Of course, the family would need to be willing to help you out, and if you can find one quickly, you might have a chance at this option. If you do have a possible scenario, have your parents visit that home right away to see the location for themselves and to meet these parents. On short notice in your case here, this is the best suggestion I can offer you.

Dr. Robert Wallace welcomes questions from readers. Although he is unable to reply to all of them individually, he will answer as many as possible in this column. Email him at rwallace@thegreatestgift.com. To find out more about Dr. Robert Wallace and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.

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