High school students in San Jose are taking entrepreneurship to a whole new level as they juggle school and running their own businesses. Teenagers like Naomi Andalon Garcia, Lidia Dominguez, and Arely Rodriguez are proving that age is just a number when it comes to being a successful business owner.
Andalon Garcia, a senior at Yerba Buena High School, has been running a jewelry business for over four years, with a strong online presence on Instagram. Dominguez, a senior at Latino College Preparatory Academy, has been applying acrylic nails for clients out of her home for almost four years, with a growing following on social media. Rodriguez, also a senior at Latino College Preparatory Academy, creates artificial bouquets and flower baskets using colorful ribbons.
These young entrepreneurs have found success in their businesses, gaining financial independence and building a loyal customer base. Andalon Garcia plans to continue growing her jewelry business while studying child development at San Jose State. Dominguez will attend Evergreen Valley College in the fall, continuing to expand her nail business. Rodriguez, who finds creating flowers to be a stress-reliever, plans to keep growing her business as well.
As these students graduate this month, they are proving that with determination and creativity, anything is possible. Their entrepreneurial spirit is an inspiration to others their age, showing that it’s never too early to chase your dreams and become your own boss.