Some time ago, I was also in your shoes; nervous, anxious and excited for the future (as you should be). I still vividly remember the day I received an acceptance letter from the College of Arts and Science for Business Economics. If I am being honest, I did not know what exactly I wanted to do at that time but one thing I was assured of was there was a purpose as to why my fate led me to this school.
Not long after receiving my acceptance, I received an invitation to join the Entrepreneurial Management Program. I distinctly remember it said “Be your own boss” and in a blink of an eye I said YES! Mostly because I found it exciting to answer to myself and make something of my own name. Back then I did not know I was saying yes to one of the best adventures of my life.
During my first and second year of college, I was challenged with countless readings, essays, and analyzing numbers. I now see how these challenges have prepared me for the real world as they translate to the business world; giving me my own seat at the table. During my first panel presentation to present a business, I proposed a trendy frozen yogurt shop. Back then this was the latest hot spot.
The panel then asked me an obvious but life changing question, “Monica, is this what you want to do for the rest of your life?” The question was simple yet truly challenging as it forced me to examine answers beyond the surface. It then became obvious that the answer had been staring at me all along.
This was when I knew I had to go after my passion for beautiful nails and how this makes us feel. When I presented I Do Nails Homeservice to this same panel a few weeks later, this felt less like a project and more like a business that would impact my life. I excitedly graduated and aced the NBV while I ran after my passion.
You could say, I found the secret to my success. Success is not only the monetary value but how you evolve after this. It is said “every great dream begins with a dreamer. Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world.” If I had never said yes to that letter or the advice of my mentors, I believe I Do Nails would have never been created. Immediately after graduation we were offered our first real estate space by Megaworld and was recognized by the Philippine Franchise Association.
Today, I Do Nails has 9 branches in top shopping centers like Eastwood Mall under Megaworld, Ayala 30th and Ayala Feliz under the Ayala malls and most recently, Shangri-La mall. We have catered to all classes of customers bringing beautiful nails to our community. I must admit however that what I am most proud of is that this small and humble business has also created a livelihood for around 50-80 employees around the Philippines.
A small but meaningful way to help our country. UA&P has taught me to set strong foundations for business and life and utilize these lessons for the real world.
These very walls created a leader in me and molded me to act with empathy, passion and determination. I have no doubt we will see many more exciting developments and success stories from the Entrepreneurial Management Program.