What to Sell in High School (and How to Crush It as a Freshman)
Starting a small business in high school might sound intimidating, but freshman year is actually the perfect time to dive in. You’re new, energetic, and have a fresh perspective on what your peers need—or secretly want. Whether you’re looking to earn extra cash, build skills, or just have fun, here’s a guide to turning your locker into a mini enterprise.
1. What Can You Actually Sell?
High schoolers aren’t exactly rolling in disposable income, so the key is to offer affordable, convenient, and cool products. Let’s break down some crowd-pleasing ideas:
A. Handmade or Customized Items
Got a creative streak? Handmade jewelry, stickers, or custom phone cases are easy to make and sell. Freshmen often want to fit in or stand out, so personalized items like friendship bracelets with names or class-themed keychains can become instant hits.
B. Snacks and Drinks
Never underestimate the power of a midday snack. Sell pre-packaged treats like cookies, energy bars, or even flavored popcorn. Bonus points if you cater to dietary trends (gluten-free, vegan). If your school allows it, bottled drinks like iced coffee or smoothies could fly off the shelves during lunch breaks.
C. School Supplies with a Twist
Basic pens and notebooks? Boring. But glitter gel pens, themed planners, or sticky notes with funny memes? Now you’re talking. Partner with a local print shop to create custom supplies featuring inside jokes or school mascots.
D. Secondhand Clothing or Accessories
Thrifting is huge with Gen Z. Clean out your closet or host a weekend thrift pop-up. Curate trendy items like vintage band tees, Y2K accessories, or gently used sneakers.
E. Digital Services
Tech-savvy freshmen can offer services like graphic design (for club posters), photo editing, or even TikTok tutoring for classmates who want to grow their social media.
F. Seasonal or Event-Based Goods
Capitalize on school spirit! Sell homemade bracelets during football season, Valentine’s Day candy grams, or holiday-themed decorations.
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2. How to Start Your Hustle (Without Getting in Trouble)
Before you start counting imaginary profits, follow these steps to avoid becoming that kid who gets shut down by the principal.
Step 1: Do Your Homework
– Check School Rules: Most schools have policies about selling items on campus. Ask a teacher or check the student handbook.
– Survey Your Audience: Poll friends or post an Instagram story asking, “Would you buy ___?” Gauge interest before investing time or money.
Step 2: Keep Costs Low
Start small. Use materials you already have (e.g., baking ingredients from home) or split costs with a friend. For handmade items, calculate pricing like this:
(Material Cost + Time) + Small Profit = Final Price
Step 3: Master the Art of Subtle Marketing
– Social Media: Create a simple Instagram page for your business. Post pics of your products with catchy captions. Use hashtags like Classof2027 or your school’s name.
– Word of Mouth: Tell your friends, teammates, or club members. Offer a “bring a friend” discount to grow your customer base.
– Flyers: Design eye-catching flyers (Canva is free!) and post them in high-traffic areas like the cafeteria or library.
Step 4: Deliver Like a Pro
– Discreet Sales: Avoid disrupting classes. Sell during lunch, between periods, or at after-school events.
– Pre-Orders: Use Google Forms to take orders in advance, then deliver items quietly.
– Payment Options: Cash is king, but Venmo or Cash App can make transactions smoother.
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3. Freshman-Specific Tips to Stand Out
As a new student, you have unique advantages. Here’s how to leverage them:
A. Be the “Solution” Seller
Pay attention to freshman-specific needs. Are upperclassmen charging $10 for used textbooks? Offer yours for $5. Is the cafeteria line always too long? Sell pre-packaged snacks outside the gym.
B. Collaborate with Clubs
Join (or partner with) a club to boost credibility. For example, team up with the environmental club to sell reusable water bottles, or the art club to host a DIY jewelry workshop.
C. Build a Reputation
Freshman year is your chance to become known as the “go-to” person for something. Consistency matters—show up every Friday with your products, or send reminder texts about weekly specials.
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4. Handling Challenges
Time Management: Balance schoolwork and your side hustle by setting a schedule. Example: Bake on Sundays, sell on Mondays and Wednesdays.
Dealing with Competition: If someone else starts selling similar items, focus on what makes yours unique—better quality, customization, or customer service.
Failure ≠ The End: Not every idea will work. If a product flops, pivot! Ask customers for feedback and adjust.
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Final Thought: It’s About More Than Money
Selling stuff in high school isn’t just a way to fund your Starbucks habit. You’ll learn negotiation, marketing, and problem-solving—skills that’ll help you long after graduation. Start small, stay creative, and don’t be afraid to experiment. Who knows? Your freshman-year hustle might just turn into something legendary. 😎
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