THESE TEEN ENTREPRENEURS BREAK THE MOLD WITH
By Larissa Van Beurden, The Tribune

Teens and young adults in San Luis Obispo County, some as young as 16, are moving beyond traditional jobs in tourism and retail, and starting their own businesses for the chance to earn more cash.

They lack experience and start-up money. But they possess energy, determination and fearlessness, and they're making their mark in the business world.

"I think what we're dealing with, especially in San Luis Obispo County, is the jobs available for our high school and college-age students ... are not traditionally high- paying jobs," said David Ryal, director of the Cuesta College Small Business Development Center, part of a nationwide program that provides technical assistance to small businesses. "If (they) go into business for (themselves), the earning potential can really be unlimited."

From Web design to a clothing line, various companies are being run by 16- to 21-year-olds, though many customers may not know how young these CEOs are.

"I don't like to tell people I'm only a student, or only 21," said David Serwitz, who owns a tutoring service called Make the Grade LLC. "I don't like to tell people I run it myself, or I think people take it less seriously."

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