New hire: Emp vs Indep Cont

In part of my new hire package, I was asked if I wanted to be an employee or an Idependent Contractor. I'm not sure what to do. I would like to be able to do visits as an Independent Contractor on my own eventually, but until I get more experience and get a Medicare billing number I will do strictly HH under an agency.

Can anyone give me some insight. I have already applied for my Ins to NSO, which I would do regardless of whether I was an emp. or IC. I would like to be able to write off my mileage, computer, etc (being an Independent Contractor).

Thanks in advance...