For Denton seniors Ana and Edith Alvarez, creating content and posting on social media hasn’t always come naturally. However, after amassing 6.7 million views on one of their Instagram Reels, their lives as Baylor students began to change.
Browsing: Student Business Spotlight
“Professional brand image is how your reputation is perceived by others,” reads Shiners’ website. “We provide our services so that you can achieve and maintain that reputation.”
This realization that Charkalis’ journey isn’t too different from many of her peers’ seems to be a source of comfort. Charkalis said her goal is to bring a sense of community to the journey. She said when you aren’t alone in your walk with mental health, there seems to be far greater hope.
“I encourage anyone who has some sort of passion, if it’s artistic and creative or some other area entirely, just consider going into that and pursuing it,” Mosley said.
Four months ago, Houston sophomore Brooklyn Joseph began her hair locking services after doing a favor for a friend. That talent soon turned into a business venture. Joseph’s business offers starter locs, retwists and styling, which has allowed her to make money while in school.
“My favorite part is the interaction between people who buy things from me,” Sartor said. “So when I get to do things like that, it’s when I really get excited about it.”
“I think I would probably die in a corporate job where I’m working 9 to 5, and it’s just not who I am. So I love the aspect that everything’s different every day; no day is going to look the same. And, I don’t know, just seeing that growing up, I feel that totally inspired me and encouraged me to start something like this.”
Most 18-year-olds leave their high school with just a diploma, but freshman Morgan MacAnanny left with a bridal collection she created that is showcased at a popular local bridal showroom.
“It’s more just like, for the joy of doing it, and a lot of my stuff shares the gospel with people,” Bowden said. “So I think that that’s a really big part of it is like, not only am I like selling fun, cute little stickers, but they also each one I make has a message behind it.”
“Not many college students with businesses have been able to sell their own stuff. So that’s why I wanted to create the market at Common Grounds to give student entrepreneurs a place to sell.”
Freshman Grace Craighead began her small business out of her love for stationery. Her business has grown since August 2021 following online sales and her participation in pop-up shops.
Cypress sophomore Aly Jasso brings a positive light to everyday items like sweatshirts and car fresheners with sweet messages to spread joy.
Highlands Ranch, Colo., sophomore Trinity Fay is adding life to the everyday cowboy hat by adding customizations for every occasion.
“Art is definitely something that I enjoy doing. Regardless of how many customers I get, I would still continue to do this. It’s very fun for me,” Beanie Babe owner Ellie McIntyre said.