While many Portola High students are already balancing work and school, the transition from part-time to full-time after graduation can be difficult, but fortunately, becoming self-employed is a more advantageous option. As alternative career paths grow more accessible, largely due to technology, high school students should be encouraged to explore self-employment as a viable option alongside traditional part-time and 9-to-5 jobs.

In recent times, there has been an increase in individuals choosing to be an independent worker. Self-employment, which includes independently run jobs such as freelance work, online businesses and other services, has become an increasingly realistic option for students.

For individuals with demanding schedules, self-employment offers a level of flexibility and freedom that typical jobs do not. For senior and business owner Ethan La from Mission Viejo High School, self-employment means greater control over balancing his schedule.

“I run an e-commerce business through Amazon FBA,” La said. “I’ve been doing this for about four years now. Working for myself means that the ceiling is higher in terms of what I can do. I don’t have to report to anyone but me.”

Sixty-two percent of Americans say they want to become self-employed, according to Forbes. This growing interest reflects a shift in how people view work, as flexibility and fulfillment become important factors in career decisions.

In February 2024, several occupations with high rates of self-employment such as fine artists and taxi drivers were projected to grow faster than the average for all jobs over the next decade, suggesting that independent work is increasing in popularity and with long-term labor market growth, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Students such as senior Sahasra Arabandi, who has worked multiple part-time jobs, also recognize how self-employment can benefit individuals whose needs are not always met in traditional workplaces.

“Self-employment is way more convenient,” Arabandi said. “A lot of people suffer with chronic illnesses that make it difficult when they’re in a 9-to-5 workplace. And sometimes, actual workplaces create a lot of stress for a lot of people.”

Some argue that self-employment can be risky due to inconsistent income and a lack of traditional benefits, making it less appealing than a stable corporate job. Students, such as sophomore Kate Song, find the idea of a 9-to-5 more appealing, regardless of the freedom gained from being one’s own boss.

“It gives you a lot of stability, and hours are solid,” Song said. “ Self-employment is oftentimes really unstable. And with retirement plans and insurance, a 9-to-5 allows you to plan out your future a lot better.”

Ultimately, while no single career path works for everyone, self-employment deserves greater consideration among high school students navigating their futures. With increasing flexibility, independent work offers students the chance to take control of their careers earlier than ever before. Rather than viewing self-employment as risky, students should recognize it as a legitimate alternative to traditional desk jobs.