You heard wrong. Very wrong.
Saying that everyone your age has a job is a gross overstatement. While it s true that many teenagers work part-time jobs along with school, it s not as common as you think. It s ill-advised if you have a lot of important courses that need a lot of attention, especially if you re taking special classes (like Advanced Placement). On the other hand, it s a great opportunity to learn about responsibility and such, and it gives you some spending cash on the side.However, many states have labor laws that will severely affect how much you can work at your age. Hours become more available once you turn 16, and completely open at 18. If you really want a job, many fast food restaurants will hire people under the age of 16. Retail chains do as well, but it s less common. Just don t do it because everyone you age is doing it , too. Just do what fits your lifestyle best. (:Oh, and welcome to the US, haha.
It s difficult to get a job right now because of the economy. However, because people are hiring more for the holiday season, you may be able to find a job, although employers tend to hire those who can drive and have their own car, and those in college because they re more flexible. You can get a job if you are a legal citizen with a social security number, and proof of your ability to work in the US (which I m sure your social security number proves). You can get a job with a work permit, but your best bet is working at a fast food restaurant or somewhere in a mall. It s especially difficult in Sacramento since so many stores are going out of business.
Most places arent hiring, but even when they do, they rarely hire anyone under 16. Kids that age do baby sitting, pet walking, lawn mowing etc