Major: Entrepreneurship & Corporate Innovation
Minor: Urban Planning & Community Development
Hometown: Fishers, IN
Academic Year: Senior
What are you most looking forward to this year in the Shoemaker Scholars? What is one thing you hope to accomplish?
I’m really excited to have the opportunity to promote entrepreneurship on campus. Every day, I’m amazed by the innovative ideas my fellow students come up with, and I’d love to give them the support and resources they need to make those ideas a reality. I would be so proud to come away from this year knowing I’ve helped even just one student make the brave choice to start their own business.
What innovative or entrepreneurial projects are you working on this year?
This year, I’m focused on how I can help foster other entrepreneurs. As a Shoemaker Scholar, I’m working with the rest of the team to promote entrepreneurship all across IU’s campus. We’re looking at innovative ideas for how we can bring students together and connect them with local professionals in the startup space. I’m also working to advance the entrepreneurship major within the Kelley School. It’s been the most wonderful experience for me, and I would love to see more students taking part in the program!
What’s one piece of advice you have for IU students with regard to innovation and entrepreneurship?
Talk to people about your idea. I think we all get this belief that when you have an idea for a business, you need to protect it. The reality is, though, that many of the people you come across won’t have the time or desire to act on this idea like you might. And the benefits of sharing it outweigh the potential risk. Talking about your ideas can lead to new ways of thinking, can confirm your idea has legs, or could even help you find someone to work on the idea with you. So share it. You never know what you’ll learn from the next person you talk to!
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