Many people can say they cut their hair after dealing with terrible stylists or expensive haircuts, but not everyone can say they started at such a young age. 

This was the reality of Tosa West Junior Roman Long, who, for his fourteenth birthday, was handed a pair of clippers and was told to start cutting his own hair. But this birthday gift was something special, something that started a chain reaction and has led him to start a business cutting hair. 

“My father handed over a pair of clippers for my 14th birthday and told me he wasn’t cutting me and my brother’s hair anymore. I grew up getting my haircut by my dad, and I learned how to cut hair when he would cut my older brother,” said Long.

Student created small businesses are growing in popularity in order for students to own their own money, as over 99% of businesses start at this level.  

Instead of going the traditional route of a part-time job, some students have taken matters into their own hands. These students are hoping to make it their future career and join the percentage of now bigger businesses.  

“It’s an option I can choose when I get my barber’s licence next year. I’ve got 3 years of cutting experience, and I plan to own my own shop in the future.” Said Long. 

For Tosa West students, many have worked hard to juggle both work and school. Others juggle more than just a simple job after school. 

Students from all over the school have taken inspiration from important people in their lives and used that to further their ambitions. 

“My dad was the real reason he got me into this. I would go thrifting with him and find items to resell for a profit,” expressed Tosa West junior Evan Laserstein. “My dad has been thrifting and reselling his whole life as a side job and has been selling on eBay since 1999.”

Both Laserstein and Long are well known among friends for their busy schedules, as they juggle school work, their own businesses, and sports on top of it all.  While cutting hair and reselling clothing are vastly different, both students have learned similar lessons throughout their journey. 

“I always have to make time to be available for my clients and also have time for myself.” Said Long.

“If there were any life lessons to be learned from my small business, it is to stay persistent and organized. This is because running a small business like mine takes a good amount of time out of not just my day but my life, so I usually have to work around my schedule. Staying organized is important, so I know where inventory is as well as keeping track of revenue and spending.” Said Laserstein. 

As time passes, they have grown to understand themselves and their businesses better and continue to improve their skills. Many have come to support them both and hope to continue their growth. 

Small businesses depend on the community around them, and these students take charge through their social media or friend groups to get the word around about their services.

“Starting up a small business can take a lot of time and effort. From finding products to listing, driving, and more, there are a lot of little things that add up.” Laserstein continued, “Also, if you start a small business, expect it to start slow, but don’t stop that from you continuing.”

Evan Laserstein: 

Instagram: @laservintage

Depop: laservtg

Roman Long: 

Instagram: @dopeblendzz