At Olympic Heights, students are encouraged to take initiative and become independent, both in and out of the classroom. Many programs at OH prepare students for future jobs, including those in the OH academies. 

However, some students are already making strides towards success. Not only are these students involved in school activities and athletics; they are also writing books, involving themselves in the community, and even starting their own businesses. 

Senior Jordan Levitt is the co-president of the OH chapter of the Future Business Leaders of America as well as a member of the OH Finance Academy. Levitt previously founded his own startup company while in middle school and maintains that his experience taught him important life lessons. “I learned a significant amount of valuable information regarding the legal and financial processes that go into starting a business,” Levitt said.

In an effort to consolidate the knowledge he gained, Levitt wrote a book, The Concise Journey to Success. “While my business endeavor didn’t work out, my curiosity and entrepreneurial spirit remain undiminished, and I intend to apply the lessons I have learned to whatever my next project will be,” Levitt added.

OH senior Sophia Martins is also a student entrepreneur, though her business revolves around her name. In 2018, she started an Instagram account (@sof.martinss) to share her study habits, and she currently has over 600,000 followers. “I started doing workshops – at first it was all volunteering – but then I started getting work opportunities. Then they requested that I start making worksheets,” Martins explained. 

Martins produces stationary and calligraphy products, each with her own floral designs, and she advertises them on her Instagram page. Each product released is licensed by Martins herself. Additionally, she maintains international partnerships, allowing her to launch many different lines of products in eight countries. Her most recent release was her Lilac Fields collection. “This is my passion and I plan on continuing it far past high school,” Martins said.

Senior Michelle Knaz is the co-president of the OH chapter of FBLA as well as a member of the OH Finance Academy. She recently opened a storefront for her own business, Kpop Kastle. It is a music memorabilia store centered around Korean pop artists and their merchandise. 

Knaz explained that her inspiration behind the store was “a general lack of community in the South Florida area. With this store, we hope for it to be a space where fans and listeners can gather to enjoy and reflect.” She also added that in the future, Knaz and her employees hope to bring artists out and have interactive opportunities for fans. After four years in the finance academy, Knaz feels prepared to handle whatever is thrown at her during her venture into the business world.

Not only do businesses provide student entrepreneurs with practice and experience for the future, but they also help students to stand out in the college admission process. The creation of a business shows initiative, passion, creativity, and dedication, which are all sought after by colleges.