I began working well before I started university.  I loved working with children and found summer and after- school jobs first as a babysitter, then at a camp and then at a daycare. After high school, I travelled and took courses abroad and came back around the winter semester.

Since I intended to pursue a kinesiology arts degree, I enrolled in courses to become certified as a personal trainer and pilates instructor. I knew it would be difficult to find a well paying part-time position as a student and I realized that being certified would allow me to earn money to pay for my education and also gain relevant experience during my studies in kinesiology.

Soon after I became certified, I was excited to find a job at a local gym. But, when I returned to school full-time, my schedule often conflicted with work and it was difficult to balance both.  So I quit my job.

I realized that starting my own fitness equipment and fitness apparel business might be a great idea since it would allow me to create my own work schedule.  I did a little bit of further research on how one starts their own business and I discovered that it would require a lot of money, time and space – none of which I had.

Since I always loved making jewelry and designing, I decided that for the time being I would sell accessories. I found several suppliers, designed my website and logo with a major design company, and then launched my accessories business, veredben.com  In my third year as a student, I finally felt ready to pursue my passion in the fitness and health industry. I started V2Be, a fitness training program for women and girls. I developed a curriculum and launched an after school fitness program that focuses on healthy living and self- esteem building for children.

It has definitely been a challenge combining school with business, but it is absolutely amazing to have the flexibility of creating my own schedule and deciding how much work I want to put in and when.  Although I am only doing this business part-time, I have the option of pursuing it full-time when I graduate.

Most career centres and schools focus a lot on grades, career options and resumés, and usually do not let students think outside the box when it comes to job searching. I think schools should help students see that working for yourself can be a great option.

– TalentEgg.ca, Canada’s online career resource for students and recent grads, wants to hear your Student Voice. Share it at TalentEgg.ca.