<p>My S worked in HS. He also ran track and cross-country.</p>
<p>We have discussed his up-coming freshman year at college. He told me that he felt that he had an easier time in HS with his grades when he was working and actively engaged in his sports. He said it made him better budget his time.</p>
<p>He told me that he is going to get a job after the first two blocks (his college is on a block system) which means sometime in late October. This is in line with what mathmon suggested.</p>
<p>I think you will need more than the $2K from the summer. Another $200 per month would give you a cushion. A job that required limited hours would be what I suggest.</p>
<p>Your desire to have as much independence as you can is admirable and advisable. Parents can have a change of circumstances or just renege on what they have promised. Also, try as a parent may, it is at least a temptation to want to put conditions on the money you give.</p>