Navigating a busy college schedule can be daunting, but Elena Bonvicini, the founder of the viral clothing brand EB Denim, took it to the next level by running her business alongside her studies. Despite her company’s rapid success, with revenue exceeding $1 million by her junior year at the University of Southern California, Bonvicini felt pressure to pursue her degree.
As her business continued to grow, Bonvicini found herself torn between attending classes and focusing on her entrepreneurial pursuits. She would often prioritize her business, spending her weekends at flea markets acquiring jeans to rework and selling at her sorority house. Despite the challenges of balancing her responsibilities, Bonvicini insisted on continuing her education.
Bonvicini’s academic pursuits provided valuable skills applicable to her business, allowing her to think critically about her operations and approach with a professional mindset. When reflecting on her experience, she noted that her classes helped her to think professionally and sophistically, benefiting her business in numerous ways.
Bonvicini ultimately credits her mom’s persistence in insisting she complete her degree with helping her navigate the tough balancing act of college and entrepreneurship. Had she been allowed to drop out, she may not have had the same opportunities for growth and development that her academic experience provided.