Hannah Woodling

I had always been very involved in all of my business and marketing classes throughout high school; they sparked my interest far more than any other courses had. I believe that’s why I was chosen to be the manager of our school’s store. Once chosen, I spent most mornings of my senior year working for free---and I absolutely loved it. Others may say I was silly to have worked for free, but the experience I gained was worth every dollar forgone. Some of my tasks included running the social media accounts, stocking the new inventory, assisting customers, and my personal favorite: designing the new merchandise. Every month, my marketing teacher and I would sit down, browse through hundreds of design catalogues, and work with suppliers to create the new arrivals. Each time the new merchandise that we had designed arrived, I felt like I was living out my childhood dream of being a fashion designer. Managing the school store was an amazing opportunity that I truly had a passion for. It really did feel like my own and I poured my heart and soul into it. Working in the store showed me how much I would love to open one of my own in the future---if I'm ever able to endure the hefty startup costs.