UC Student Follows Entrepreneurial Path

The spark of entrepreneurship can come from many places – even an encounter with a stuffed animal.

In an article in the 2023 WV Senior High Magazine, UC student Grace Underwood describes the journey that led her to pursue her own business, and says, “I am incredibly grateful for the entrepreneurial gift of vision and creating, as well as a place that fosters it such as UC.”

Grace had been creating clothes since she was a child, but a chance encounter with her nephew’s stuffed fox (and his request for pants to fit it) sparked an idea for a business.

“People are uniquely beautiful, and they deserve clothes that make them feel that way. They shouldn’t have to alter everything they buy. Thus, the essence of my business, Ethereal, was born with adaptability as its main priority.”

Grace entered UC’s i3 competition and tied for second in her category, giving her idea even more traction. She currently serves as state president of Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA), and through that organization and the experiences UC offers, she is developing the skills and knowledge to help her business become more tangible.

Her advice to budding entrepreneurs? “…stay steadfast, learn the necessary skills, and believe in the good things that can happen for you.”

Read the complete article: Grace Underwood Article