Rachel Nicholas, Staff Writer
College is known to be a time of self-discovery and finding one’s path forward in the world by themselves.
For some students, that means providing for themselves financially, many choosing to start their own businesses — honing their passions into profitable skills like travel photographer Kaitlyn Burdette.
“I felt like I always knew how to take pictures,” said Burdette. “So I wanted to get a degree that would help me gain more experience that could help me grow in my business.”
Burdette, a fourth-year communications major, cites the start of her photography career as her freshman year of high school.
From graduations to weddings, Burdette captures it all as she juggles her business and classes.
“Honestly, it’s really hard,” said Burdette, “A lot of my work is destination-based so I had to be transparent with all my professors that there would be days where I would not even be in the country. But all of them are very supportive and accommodating.”
To further support her business, Burdette has chosen primarily online classes — allowing her to travel all over the world while maintaining her education.
Additionally, Burdette is responsible for her living expenses while her parents cover her tuition. More of her work can be found on her website.
While financial responsibility plays a major role in balancing school and work , the lessons gained through these experiences extend beyond money, according to third-year business student Marcus Johnson.
“I kind of knew I always wanted to study business, or entrepreneurship, in college,” Johnson said. “Being in the VCU area, I’ve learned a lot and how it’s not about making money, but also about telling a story.”
Johnson is the founder and designer of Passion. With. Purpose., a clothing brand with a mission that focuses on fulfilling goals with intention and direction.
Johnson’s father, an entrepreneur in his own right, serves as an example for him on managing work and day-to-day life balance.
“I like to make sure all of my activities and school work are done by around six o’clock,” Johnson said. “After that, I just sit down and draw up new ideas for content or new pieces. It’s all about prioritizing my education first, and then making sure I pour into my brand.”
Although some students create their businesses inspired by passion, some have done it as a way to make extra money on the side while completing their degree.
“I pretty much only do hair for my friends and my family,” said first-year business student Balima Yakubu. “I never really felt the need to do it professionally, but it helps if I want to gain some money pretty quickly.”
Doing hair long before her first year at VCU, Yakubu keeps a closed clientele list of her choosing. Operating between those closest to her when she feels she wants to make a little income to support herself.
Whether it be to fuel a spark or to fuel the wallet, there are businesses all across campus keeping students afloat as they enter the “real world.”