November is National Entrepreneurship Month and, to celebrate, we caught up with some of our student entrepreneurs on their work and the advice they have for those looking to start their own business.
Jared Zima
“ReliefWax” | Berlin, Conn.
My company’s name is ReliefWax, and our mission is to help those affected by stress, anxiety, and nerves overcome their struggles both in their everyday lives and while playing baseball and softball. We hope to become the number one leather care product in the world and help do our part to fight back against youth anxiety.
What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs?
For those of you aspiring to be an entrepreneur take that leap of faith, and don’t give up. Ask questions and make connections! Starting a company is a scary thing, the more you wait around the harder it will be to do. There will be failure along the way, don’t let that discourage you, learn from it and keep going. Don’t be too prideful, ask questions about things you don’t know! Look to expand your network, sometimes just knowing the right people can make the biggest difference.
In one word, what is the most important thing an entrepreneur should focus on?
The most important thing an entrepreneur should focus on is resilience. Failure is part of success, and not letting that get to you is important. There are not winners and losers, just those who last!
Denise Colon
“Neicy’s Treats” | Marlborough, Mass.
What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs?
I would tell aspiring entrepreneurs to challenge themselves if they have a vision, take the risk, believe in themselves, and face their fears and go for it.
In one word, what is the most important thing an entrepreneur should focus on?
Time management
Desiree Martinez
“Prepared Meals and Wellness Service” | Meriden, Conn.
What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs?
Follow your dreams and don’t give up. Make sure this is something you truly want and believe in. I think when it comes down to it at the end of the day if you really want something in life, you have to be willing to take risks and just go for it. If you believe your business idea is great enough to turn it into something then you have something there. Do not give up, even if you’re scared. Build up some confidence and just know that you do not have to be a millionaire to start a business. Do all of the planning beforehand as well so you are not stuck with the 3 W’s- wondering, worrying, or waiting.
In one word, what is the most important thing an entrepreneur should focus on?
The Plan.
Jessica Hovan
“Wedding and Events Venue” | Oxford, Conn.
What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs?
My best advice to give to aspiring entrepreneurs is to research your industry and competitors as much as possible. Keep researching periodically too as everything in the world changes all the time. Also, to know your target market as specific as possible!
In one word, what is the most important thing an entrepreneur should focus on?
NETWORKING.
Christine A. George
“Kingdom Ambassadors Apparel” | Jamaica, N.Y.
My name is Christine. I am a New York native who is excited to put a unique spin on Christian apparel. The name of my company is called Kingdom Ambassadors Apparel. Our mission is to encourage people who struggle with mental illness such as depression and anxiety as well as empower Creative Christians. The goal is to inspire people through bold images and wording that highlight’s their personal journey.
In one word, what is the most important thing an entrepreneur should focus on?
I would advise aspiring entrepreneurs to celebrate small victories. Many wait until they take giant leaps to feel accomplished. Whether you walk, run or crawl as long as you’re moving in a forward direction; it’s all that really matters. You are not on anyone’s timeline and you have nothing to prove to anyone but yourself.
In one word, what is the most important thing an entrepreneur should focus on?
The one-word advice I would give to others is to focus on your “why?”.
Tina Royal
“Royltystylz on Etsy” | Buffalo, N.Y.
My mission is to show everyone how I use my gift to appreciate the resources around me to help others through personal development and empowerment expressed through my creativity in making things like crystal jewelry, hand-mixed essential oils, and handmade botanical soaps and bath salts tea bags.
What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs?
My advice to anyone who has a dream, no matter how far off it may sound, never discredit your dreams. You are the only one who sees your goal so don’t let anyone tell you that it cannot be done.
In one word, what is the most important thing an entrepreneur should focus on?
Focus on self, you are the most important part of the equation, though you may need help from others what you bring to the table on a personal level is what gives your goal true substance.
If you are a current student and interested in starting your own business or exploring an idea, contact Brandon Monti, the Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation’s Coordinator to learn more ([email protected]). Other entrepreneurial opportunities are available such as the three-week entrepreneurial challenge with the European Innovation Academy. To apply or learn more visit http://post.edu/eia.