There are several student entrepreneurs at school.
Tracee Saunders, senior, is a student entrepreneur who runs a nail business, Nailed by Tracee.
Nailed by Tracee targets all customers who desire a luxury service.
Saunders started practicing in October of 2020 and began taking clients in May of 2021.
“My dad motivated me to start my business,” Saunders said.
“In five years, I can see myself still growing my business while I’m still in college.”
“I think a challenge I face is often comparing myself to others,” Saunders said. “I think some common mistakes people first make when starting a business is buying unnecessary products and comparing your journey to others’ experiences.”
Saunders believes that confidence, dedication and support is essential for success within a business.
“Don’t give up, don’t compare yourself to others, have a plan to promote your platform, and buy good quality products,” Saunders said.
Tara Hatcher, senior, owns a cookie business called Boujee Delights, starting in February of 2025.
“Money motivated me to start my business,” Hatcher said. “I didn’t have time for a real part-time job because of my role in Show Choir; I also have nothing else to do during the weekends so I decided to bake, and I really enjoy doing it.”
“Hungry teenagers in school are the people that are most attracted to my business,” Hatcher said. “Once summer begins, I would like to start catering.”
The income and time management is what Hatcher finds most challenging.
“I have to put the money I earn back into the business.” Hatcher said. “Finding time for other hobbies and activities is difficult.”
“I feel like a normal high school student who doesn’t have much experience in culinary might sell old products,” Hatcher said. “It’s really trial and error; when I first started, I had to experiment with my cooking time and my ingredients.”
“I had a huge rewarding moment when someone ordered a massive batch of cookies without having to try them; it was a big moment,” Hatcher said.
Hatcher envisions her business as a successful restaurant in New York, selling Italian and soul food with a bakery on the side.
“A piece of advice I can give to young and upcoming entrepreneurs is to taste test your products and start out small. Do not start your business with expensive prices,” Hatcher said. “Don’t expect to start a business and everyone will love it; don’t expect a lot of money at first.”
