Senior Jake Hathaway has accomplished what most people strive for in a lifetime: independence by pursuing one’s passion.

Through hard work and determination, Hathaway created and maintains a landscaping business called Lawn Enforcement, which aims to provide exceptional service for a low price.

Hathaway’s love for landscaping began as a freshman when he was on a trip to Florida with his buddy, senior Allan Bramhill. They did not have enough money to do the activities they wanted to do, so they ended up doing lawn work for nearby residents and made a good profit.

“I just fell in love with it,” Hathaway said. “I hate sitting in a chair. Like right now I’m rocking and shaking my legs; I just can’t sit still. [Landscaping] hits every point that I need in a job.”

Hathaway’s jobs are not just limited to local clients in Northborough and Southborough.

“I’ve had clients in Princetown, Framingham, Bolton, Harvard, Worcester, Shrewsbury, etc,” Hathaway said. “So I’m all over the place all the time.”

Hathaway’s work ranges from the traditional lawn mowing and yard work to even constructing tedious stone pathways and rock walls.

Owning his own business has also come with more responsibilities.

“The hardest part is keeping your equipment running,” Hathaway said. “Last year I was driving down the center of Southborough and broke the axle on my trailer. That involved me pulling over, getting somebody to be able to bring the trailer back to my house, and about $600 worth of repairs. There’s stuff like that that happens quite a bit: broken tools, servicing, etc. It’s pretty hard to maintain when you’re in high school.”

Senior Matt Mshooshian, a co-worker for Lawn Enforcement, has been by Hathaway’s side since the launch of the business as a friend and a collaborator.

“Working with Jake has been a great experience as he allows for flexibility and creates a positive working environment,” Mshooshian said. “While it’s a small business owned by Jake, we both take leadership roles in making decisions.”

This experience has taught Hathaway fundamental lessons that he can carry into his future career. He hopes to spread the word about Lawn Enforcement and provide the best possible service to every customer as he continues to follow his passion.