I'm currently in the final stages of interviewing for a kennel tech position, but I'm feeling conflicted about whether to accept the offer. After doing some calculations and seeking advice from friends and family, I realized that this job might actually cost me money in the long run. I live at home and have minimal expenses, but the pay is around $12-$13 per hour, which seems really low considering the demanding nature of the work. Plus, the job is about 22 miles away, which translates to a 40-45 minute commute each way. With gas prices rising, I worry that I'll end up spending more on gas than I'll earn. I have an associate's degree and I'm preparing to take the Veterinary Technician National Examination (VTNE), which costs about $370 per attempt. If I fail a few times, that adds up quickly. While I genuinely like the idea of working in this role and believe it could enhance my resume, I just don't think the starting wages are worth it. I plan to keep looking for other opportunities that align better with my long-term career goals, especially since I haven't found many related job listings in my area. I'm hesitant to decline the offer, as I don't want to come off as rude, but I also want to make a smart decision for my future.