McDonald's is actually a good place for young people to start learning what a job is. The responsibility, the disappointment in that small paycheck, taxes, working around some people who are difficult to work with... You don't have to live there. Just learn and move on when you are able. I worked at one when I was 16, for about a year until I grew to really dislike it. Previously I worked with my Dad in his trucking and agricultural company since I was 8. Yes 8. I thought McDonalds would get me away from all the heavy work. Come to find out, the heavy work was more rewarding and taught me so many more areas of mechanical, building, maintenance, working with a broader range of people, all of which I still retain today. McDonald's wasn't a terrible experience, but it took away from what previously was my free time to go out with friends. Ended up helping Dad a couple more years, until college. I was paid, and was given my first couple of cars as reimbursement.