Students are redefining what it means to be business-minded before graduation. From making flawless bouquets to taking jaw-dropping professional pictures, students are finding ways to make their business stand out on campus.
When asked what drove her to start her business, “Carmensxcreations”, Senior Carmen Alvarez Perez states, “My dad inspired me to start my business, since he is an entrepreneur himself, it really helped me get started.” Alvarez Perez has had a variety of businesses, from baking to making and selling flowers. When Alvarez Perez first created the idea, her brother suggested selling flowers. “He helped me with the idea since I needed something to do,” she states. Starting a business takes money, so having a funding plan is really important. “I saved up some of my money from when I used to bake,” says Alavarez Perez. Alvarez Perez offers bouquets in various sizes, colors, and quantities based on the client’s preferences.
Across campus, many have developed a business in photography. With shooting sports and other events, these photographers have a goal to shine. Popular photographer, Andrew Xayaraj, promotes his business, “Shotbydrewx”, through Instagram and referrals. When asking Xayaraj how he started up this business to what it is now, he states, “I borrowed my aunt’s camera to get started, and from there I taught myself everything I know now.” That early start set the stage for the growth of his photography career. Xayaraj has inspired many other young photographers on campus, and for the future, he wants to stay in this field but explore outside of sports photography.
Students are not the only ones recognizing these young entrepreneurs. Security guard Michael Martin has noticed many just by working on campus. “I have noticed many students making t-shirts and selling homemade flowers and gifts,” Martin states. Since most of the students do their own business stuff off campus, Martin believes it would not affect the school’s responsibilities. However, Martin strongly argues that if the business is the main focus and not school, it could jeopardize school responsibilities. Besides that conflict, Martin believes students should pursue entrepreneurship. “I always do, I think it’s important for it to happen,” Martin states.
As more students take chances on their own ideas, they’re showing that entrepreneurship doesn’t have to wait until after graduation. Whether it’s Alvarez Perez carefully arranging bouquets or Xayaraj capturing the perfect game-day photo, these students are putting real heart into what they do.
