Morgan Park Academy graduation requirements include successful completion of a “passion project” in which Upper School students focus on a topic or area of interest outside of their typical academic coursework.
Today, we asked Sabrina from the Class of 2021 to tell us about her project:
My project is an online business, selling maternity clothing online at sematernity.com. I am donating 20 percent of the profits to a local elementary school here in Chicago.
I chose this project nearly two years ago because I wanted to sell a product that would create enough profit to donate to disadvantaged students.
When I first moved to the U.S. from China as a child, I went to a local elementary school with some classmates who didn’t have pens, paper, or even a book bag. Since coming to Morgan Park Academy, I realized that I can make a difference in the world and help these students.
At first, I wanted to start a fundraiser for disadvantaged students, but I figured that it would be not be enough to help the amount of students I want. So I began doing research on what I can sell online.
In my research, it seemed that there weren’t enough nice, affordable maternity clothes available online, so I decided on that idea to fulfill a need and make a profit. I found a vendor, picked a few items, and set my prices. I learned to set up an account on Amazon Seller Central, which was new but exciting.
My project not only helps moms to have affordable and good quality clothings, but also 20 percent of the profit is donated to help provide school supplies for students at Burr Oak Academy.
By starting this project, I learned that the business field is what I am most passionate about; moreover, I realized that I can help my community as a business owner.
At first, I struggled to set up my business, but I quickly learned that I needed to ask for help, whether it was asking my parents or calling customer service.
My favorite thing about starting this company is that I was able to be in control of everything: the research, what I should change about specific clothing items, but most of all, the learning experience. I learned how to price, how to advertise, and how to develop my website.
I always thought that being a CEO is easy and all you have to do is wait for the money. But it is so much more than that! I had to learn how to calculate my income, the tax I needed to pay, and more. I have learned a lot that will help me become a better business owner.
I have been accepted into the entrepreneurship program at Babson College, so I believe my project will continue next fall when I am in college.