Student Entrepreneurs Get Creative
Between class, studying, and extracurricular involvement, the majority of students at A&M don’t have the stamina to take on anything else. However, there are the bold few that try their hand at starting an entrepreneurial venture. We decided to delve into the entrepreneurial community at Texas A&M in order to showcase the imaginative spirit of these students.
Gustavo Patton, a junior marketing major, shared the humble beginnings of his photography business. “My parents gave me a dope Nikon for Christmas this year, and I figured I might as well make some money,” said Patton. “All I did was adjust the aperture and throw some nice edits on my Instagram pics and the business came flooding in.” Patton is also contemplating adding his own all-natural candle line to accentuate his business.
“Photography is my true passion,” said Bessie Francis, a sophomore communications major. “It all started when I was editing some old pictures in the MSC, and I heard some people whispering about how hip I was. That really sparked my heart to start my own photography business.” Francis’ goal is to be a full-time wedding photographer and is getting most of her practice by taking pictures of her roommates in the most photogenic areas of the Historic District.
Merrill Pinkerton, a junior allied health major, is The Mugdown’s last featured entrepreneur. “My photos are a pure expression of my life as reflected on social media,” said Pinkerton. “I think my well-documented trips to every National Park in California and my 4000 Instagram followers are a true testament to my vision and skill.” Pinkerton’s hand lettering skills are also featured on all major social media platforms and can be purchased along with her photos.
The enterprises of these pioneers give a small glimpse into the wide range of talent put on display by student-run businesses.
—Koldus & Cream
This article was first published in our print edition released on August 30th, 2017. Pick up a copy in the MSC, Evans, Quadbucks, The Commons, or Wehner before they’re gone!
A College Station native, K&C has wanted to join The Mugdown since middle school. She somehow discovered where our meetings were and began priming us with anonymously-provided pints of Blue Bell, eventually sending in her application spritzed with the scent of Rocky Road. We couldn’t resist.