At Florida A&M University, students are redefining what it means to be an entrepreneur, turning their campus side hustles into successful businesses that combine innovation, hustle and ambition into career success.
FAMU students living on campus have leveraged their talents to earn extra money while navigating college life. Today, side hustles remain a popular way for students to add to their income, but for some, these ventures have blossomed into full-fledged businesses and career opportunities.
FAMU’s campus is home to students excited about their education, but many face challenges due to limited access to resources or support from family. As a result, many turn to part-time jobs or use their skills to create side hustles in order to earn extra income. Students can find their peers advertising a variety of services and products for sale including hair styling, graphic design services, dorm decorating services at affordable prices.
Victoria Brown, owner of VLuxe Beauty Collection, said she was inspired to pursue entrepreneurship.
“During my time at FAMU, I discovered my passion for entrepreneurship through the resources provided, such as the School of Business and Industry entrepreneurship program and attending business conferences,” Brown said.
Hustle culture at FAMU inspires students to leverage their creative talents to their advantage. By pursuing their dreams with dedication, students unknowingly motivate one another to take their aspirations seriously.
Brown recalls being impressed as a young child by family members who owned businesses, but it wasn’t until she encountered FAMU’s entrepreneurial environment that she considered owning one herself.
“FAMU emphasizes the importance of innovation and self-empowerment. Seeing my peers turn their ideas into successful ventures inspired me,” Brown said. “I realized I could monetize my lash artistry skills, honed through freelance work and word-of-mouth referrals. This encouragement motivated me to launch my lash business.”
Upon graduation, students can feel excited yet still unsure about the future that lies ahead. For those who have built a strong reputation and client base during their undergraduate years, the possibilities are abundant. While decisions about graduate school, relocating to a new city, or continuing to grow their business may cause thoughts of uncertainty, these choices represent opportunities for personal and professional growth.
With a solid foundation already in place, these graduates continue to create their own unique paths and embrace the next chapter with confidence and ambition.
Andrew Chiwara, owner of Cozartts Collection, graduated from FAMU in 2022 and has gained even more exposure and returning clientele since.
“I have been able to create a career from starting Cozartts Collection, extending into the different services that I am known for now such as my clothing brand and doing custom work for both individuals and organizations, being able to retain clientele from a vast majority of the organizations on the campuses in Tallahassee and other colleges across the nation,” Chiwara explained.