Rising Stars and the Look-Look Challenge

Entrepreneurs ooze with ambition, passion, and enthusiasm. From Internet start up companies, to crafty inventors, inspired hopefuls are taking control of their futures and dictating their destinies. To me, an entrepreneur is someone who not only creates their own company, but is instilled with devotion and drive. They have zeal in them to reach their aspirations, and courage to take risks.

Look-Look,(http://www.look-look.com/dynamic/looklook/html/index_.html) a company based out of Los Angeles, California specializing in the promotion and research of youth cultures, became fascinated with the sudden rise in entrepreneurial spirit and proposed an SMU challenge to our class. Look-Look requested we examine the increase in entrepreneurs in the age bracket of 19-35, and delve into the basis of their contentment, beliefs, and work ethic. What is responsible for the high numbers of entrepreneurs?

SMU, a private university located in Dallas, Texas, embodies the quintessential environment to encourage entrepreneurialism. This privileged university prides itself on high academic achievement, community involvement, and a sound alumnae network. Additionally, SMU harnesses strong social networking skills and connections, in turn opening doors for many eager students.

The Cox business school, ranked number 16 worldwide by Business Week, fosters devotion, integrity, and creative execution in its students. Signifying the foundation for many successful entrepreneurs from SMU, the Cox business school offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, and its faculty has received accolades for sharing their real-world wisdom with the students.

Most college students rarely relish in doing their laundry. Blake Mycoskie, SMU graduate, was one of these people. An invigorated entrepreneur, in 1997 Mycoskie created EZ Landry, an on-campus laundry service that caters to college scholars. Moreover, sorority girls adorned themselves in promotional t-shirts, increasing awareness and extending the company nationally. Mycoskie was directing eight trucks, 40 employees, and laundry services for seven universities. The simple idea of a laundry service blossomed into a full blown successful company, thanks to the entrepreneurial character of one student. Mycoskie accredits his savvy business skills with his classes at the Cox business school. On the Cox website, Mycoskie stated, “The Cox family is a strong and diverse one. Furthermore, everyone is very supportive and more willing to open up their network to those who ask.”

Now 25, Mycoskie recently introduced TOMS (http://www.tomsshoes.com/), “the most ethical shoe” currently being produced that arose from inspiration of shoes in Argentina created out of natural fibers and in “sweat-shop free conditions.” Mycoskie has also recruited the assistance of top celebrities to help in the promotion, and hopes to donate one million shoes to children in need over the next several years.

I feel confident that SMU will breed a multitude of successful and ambitious entrepreneurs so keep you eyes peeled for hungry business hopefuls.