ASU student entrepreneurs showcase their work in new online marketplace

A new online marketplace has been launched to showcase the work of Arizona State University students.

Student-Made at ASU sells jewelry, apparel, knitwear, artwork and other items made by ASU students on student-run e-commerce and campus pop-up sites.

A total of 30 students, including 23 creators, have participated in Student-Made so far at ASU, said Lauren Dunning, director of student outreach and engagement at the J. Orin Edson Entrepreneurship + Innovation Institute, which offers the experience. Participating in Another 35 students are in the process of becoming creators, she said.

“People in the ASU community can directly support student ventures by making a purchase, which is different from traditional ways of participating as mentors or subject matter experts,” she said.

“We know people will be happy to give back to the university in this way.”

The site offers colorful necklaces and bracelets, T-shirts and sweatshirts (some with holiday themes), beanies, art prints, photography services, and more.

Some student creators have joined ASU's Student-Made as a way to make money with their hobby. Others are promoting brands they have spent years building.

Jenna Serag, a first-year computer science major, creates and sells jewelry on her page, Dulcet Jewels.

She creates earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and phone straps using pearls and gemstones sourced from Egypt, where she and her family visit every summer.

Student-Made at ASU includes photos and quotes from each creator. Serrag said: “I want to share love and confidence with people through my jewelry. I know some people don't always feel their best on some days, but my jewelry can make you feel more like yourself on those days. We want it to be a special item that can be given to you.”

When she started attending ASU last semester, she realized she needed to balance her time.

“The first semester was very difficult. I didn't have much time, but I made a lot of jewelry during winter break,” she said.

“I’m really looking forward to seeing how this goes.”

Madison Bullock, a sophomore interior design major, sells necklaces and bracelets at Beaded by Madison.

“We try to create a wide selection of different styles, including for men,” she said.

“I work at a craft store and I love jewelry, so I started buying it to make jewelry. And a lot of my co-workers said they wanted to buy it, so I thought I'd give it a try. Ta.”

Brock likes participating in Student-Made at ASU as an alternative to social media.

“If you don't have Instagram, you can't sell anything. I don't like posting on social media, so it's annoying,” she said.

“I’m still learning about the Student-Made process, but I’m really looking forward to it.”

Alonzo Coronado's venture, DadRockBand Shop, sells high-quality vinyl stickers of his artwork. He was a student at McClintock High School in Tempe and has been creating sticker designs since 2020.

“Creating digital art is fun, but seeing it in person is special,” said Coronado, a third-year animation major.

“Many of my friends are interested in personalizing their laptops and water bottles.”

When he was in high school, he posted a survey on his Instagram account, got some responses, and ended up selling a bunch of stickers, which he handed over and paid in cash.

“It was a great way to see friends and it was special to see their reactions firsthand,” Coronado said. He then decided to sell through Instagram and mail the stickers.

He decided to join Student-Made at ASU to become a part of the creative community on campus.

“The best part is the variety of items, including jewelry, glassware and clothing,” he said.

“And it’s great to have a wider audience.”

Coronado sold some stickers last year at an ARTfest event held by the College of Arts, so Student-Made at ASU will be participating in the Entrepreneurship pop-up event on March 12th to encourage more in-person interaction. I'm looking forward to being able to do that.

“It’s a great experience to engage with people about my art,” he said.

Seven students help run the platform. Her girlfriend, Asmi Sanjay Kachare, a second-year computer science major, is the student who manages the site and uploads the products.

“I was drawn to the mission of supporting student entrepreneurs and creativity,” she said.

“My job allows me to be at the intersection of technology, creativity, and business because I get to decide how my students present the items they want to sell to the world.”

Sanjay Kachare said he finds it rewarding to help students realize their ideas.

“It’s really rewarding to see them get the recognition they deserve,” she said.

Esteban Garcia, a sophomore finance and agribusiness double major, manages the accounts for Student-Made at ASU.

“I write the numbers for the creators, calculate sales, profits, where the revenue goes,” he said.

He is also involved in advocacy efforts to increase ASU's Student-Made profile.

“I built a table and am considering becoming a club to increase our presence on campus,” he said.

“For entrepreneurs, it's a great place to present their ideas. It's large but protected by the university.

“And buyers know they are doing something good for the community.”