Executing all the right plans

Hanna Suarez, Editor-in-Chief

May 11, 2012

Students in Jeannette Hernandez’ Entrepreneur class packed their products and rolled up their arrangements for a Business Plan Competition on Wed., May 2, at Santte High School Los Angeles, California. Amongst Hernandez’ students who were ranked highest in a group of 600 other competitors are Vincent Quigg and Regine Bell.

Quigg and Belle both created, planned, and executed their plans with the help of the curriculum and guidance that Hernandez provided in class. Both entrepreneurs felt that the opportunity in many ways “pushed play” on their dreams.

“[The competition] put me on the right track,” Belle said. “It really pushed me to get my planning done.”

Quigg, who ranked in the top three also felt that the competition gave him the right motivation to complete his business tasks.

“We had to be prepared for any questions from the judges,” Quigg said. “It helped turn my dream into a reality.”

The two competitors gained plenty of insight and connections at the competition. Belle’s product, Pretty Face Cosmetics, earned plenty of attention. Her organic facial cleansers were even sought after by a store owner who was ready to place orders and start supporting her at her sight.

Quigg, on the other hand, took it home with the presentation of his company Tech World, a repair group for electronics of all types. Both students also share short and long term goals, including local business and eventually opening up different store fronts.

The competitors have their business coaches and mentors to thank along with Hernandez for taking the initiative in pushing each student to put their best effort in the competition.

“It prepares students in general, with presentation, research, and financing skills,” Hernandez said. “To see the kids put it all together and present their products and ideas is very rewarding as a teacher.”

Hernandez hopes for the students to gain more than just experience from their endeavors as young entrepreneurs. Moreover, she is aware that the dreams they have can be really close to becoming realities, if they work their hardest and chase after their aspirations.

About the Contributor

Hanna Suarez, Editor-in-Chief

Hanna Suarez, Editor-in-Chief of The Downey Legend, stepped into the world of journalism as a junior, as she carried on the challenge of the Arts and Entertainment Editor as her first position. The young writer was hesitant when first applying to join the staff, and doubts of acceptance crossed her mind. “I was kind of scared to join,” Suarez said “I didn’t think I would be much good.” Nonetheless, the hopeful student took the risk and was happy when she received the news of being selected as A&E Editor. She quickly adapted to the hectic environment and filled the newspaper room with her humor, as well as adding a sense of warmth and kindness. After successfully filling her section editor position, Suarez did not fret when the opportunity of E.I.C. was presented to her. She quickly grabbed the new title, and felt confident taking on the new role that was attached to more responsibilities. “I felt capable of handling the job well,” Suarez said. The leader was comfortable being promoted to a more prestigious position, and held her ground. While college years are ahead of her, the student is savoring the moments she has left in high school, taking in her senior year and trying to make the most of it. The Downey Legend editor is an active member in the school marching band, playing the clarinet and euphonium. The senior also enjoys spending time reading while having 3^rd Street Coffee in hand, and listening to indie bands and artists such as The xx and Lana del Ray. Once she graduates, the ambitious writer hopes to build a successful career as E.I.C. of her own magazine, making newspaper a foundation for her future endeavors. She anticipates stepping foot into the real world, attending the USC Annenberg School of Communications or FIDM. The young and talented individual has prospered as a writer and leader; providing the staff with a model of success, she leaves big shoes to fill.