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By: Rochelle N Saenz
As I stepped into my senior year at the University of Texas at Austin, a wave of uncertainty washed over me. The impending graduation brought with it the daunting question: What's next? I found myself standing at the crossroads of academia and the real world, uncertain about which direction to take. Little did I know that the transformative experiences within two unique classes, the Kendra Scott Institute's LeadHERship and the Product Prodigy Institute, would not only guide me through this period of uncertainty but also pave the way for an unexpected entrepreneurial journey.
The LeadHERship class at the Kendra Scott Women's Entrepreneurial Leadership Institute proved to be a beacon of inspiration and self-discovery. Focused on nurturing leadership skills, the class emphasized the concept of Ikigai, a Japanese philosophy centered around finding purpose and fulfillment in life. Through introspective exercises and engaging discussions, I began to unravel the layers of my passions, values, talents, and what the world needed.
It was during one of these sessions that I stumbled upon a passion for designing and creating jewelry. The Ikigai framework encouraged me to explore this newfound interest further, and soon enough, I found myself enamored with the idea of turning this passion into a meaningful career.
Enter the Product Prodigy Institute, a class that not only honed my skills but also instilled in me the mindset and work ethic of a product manager and entrepreneur. This class provided practical insights into the world of product development, teaching me how to turn ideas into tangible, market-ready products. The hands-on experience was invaluable and gave me the tools needed to navigate the entrepreneurial landscape.
The turning point came when a fellow student named Analee pitched the concept of a self- defensive jewelry line during a collaborative project. It was as if the stars had aligned, and suddenly everything fell into place. This innovative idea not only resonated with me but also perfectly aligned with my Ikigai—creating something meaningful, utilizing my skills, and addressing a pressing need in society.
With the knowledge and confidence gained from the LeadHERship and Product Prodigy Institute classes, I took the plunge into entrepreneurship. Together with Analee, I co-founded Securella, a self-defensive jewelry company aimed at empowering individuals to protect themselves stylishly. From concept to execution, the journey was challenging yet incredibly rewarding.
The lessons learned from these classes were not just about business strategies; they extended to personal growth and understanding. LeadHERship taught me the importance of resilience, empathy, and effective communication in leadership, while Product Prodigy Institute equipped me with the practical skills required to bring innovative ideas to life.
As I reflect on my senior year, I am grateful for the unexpected path that unfolded before me. The uncertainty that once loomed large has transformed into a sense of purpose and direction. Securella is not just a business venture; it is a manifestation of the lessons learned, the skills acquired, and the passion ignited during my time at the University of Texas at Austin.
In the end, my senior year became a pivotal chapter in my life—one that began with uncertainty and culminated in the creation of something impactful. To all the students standing at the crossroads of their own senior year, I say this: Embrace the uncertainty, explore your passions, and let the journey unfold. You never know where your path might lead you—perhaps to the creation of something truly remarkable.
About The Author:
Rochelle N Saenz '24
Consulting and Change Management
Entrepreneurial LeadHERship Fall 2023 Student
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