Is there a way to buy and sell stocks on your own (without a financial middleman)?

Absolutely. You do need a conduit to make the transaction, but that doesn’t mean there has to be commission involved. Try this link to learn about direct investing. I use this for all my DRIP’s. Click on the tab that says :About DRIPS.

There are other ways, too. But this is the easiest way to buy and sell without commission that I have found.

Yes you can right from your computer

The best load, is no load!

I buy and sell mine directly from the company.

Yes there is, but I would advise to wait a little right now.

Also think about funds. Stocks are way too risky, if you plan to invest a relatively small amount of money.