Loyola has seen a significant rise in student entrepreneurship, with many turning their passions into profitable ventures. Platforms like Student Made-Loyola and social media have helped these young business owners gain recognition and build a loyal customer base. Here’s a closer look at some of the standout student-run businesses making waves on campus.
Johnny’s Art Box (@johnnysartbox)
Jonathan Kane ‘27 launched his art business, Johnny’s Art Box, in August 2024. Inspired by encouragement from friends and family, Kane creates unique paintings featuring flowers, butterflies, and other embellishments. He also produces digital art and ornaments, showcasing his versatility as an artist. Kane’s journey into entrepreneurship began with a leap of faith.
“My friends and family said, ‘Just put your art out there, get it out, get your name known,’” Kane said.
Balancing his university life with his art, Kane splits his time between classes and creative pursuits, often working on weekends. Kane’s innovative approach blends his scientific background with his artistic talents.
“I would do it in an abstract way, so I will incorporate some symbols, some chemical equations into it, and give it some design,” Kane said.
Looking ahead, he envisions combining lab work with art creation, potentially developing new materials and structures.
“Even hypothetically in the future, working in a lab setting and figuring out what I can make, mix together, material-wise as well to incorporate would be pretty cool as well,” Kane said.
Kane has been creating art since elementary school and credits his grandfather as a significant role model.
“He’s not a painter or anything art-related. However, he has a love for art, and that’s where I got a love for art,” Kane said.
To avoid burnout, Kane stays active on social media and surrounds himself with sources of inspiration. Kane’s message to fellow creatives is simple.
“Just do you. Keep creating. If you’re an art creator, keep doing what you love,” Kane said.
Crochetberry.co (@crochetberry.co)
Melody Argueta ‘27, a psychology major, found her niche in crocheting. Encouraged by friends, including Kane, she applied to Student-Made Loyola, which helped her grow both personally and professionally. Argueta began crocheting in high school alongside her best friend who initially encouraged her to sell her creations.
As someone who has experienced therapy, Argueta aims to bring comfort to others through her colorful creations. The support she receives from professors, peers, and recognition on Instagram motivates her to continue creating.
“I just wanted to make that for other people who are struggling,” Argueta said.
Looking ahead, Argueta envisions combining art with therapy in a dedicated space where people can express themselves through crafts. To prepare for this goal, she is pursuing a minor in studio art and hopes to incorporate painting, drawing, and other forms of self-expression into her future practice.
KK Nailed It (@kk.nailed.it)
Krystal Sowah ‘25 started her nail business out of financial necessity.
“Being a college student is difficult, especially when it comes to finances,” Sowah said.
After getting her nails done during her first week at Loyola, Sowah realized she had spent her entire allowance. Determined to find a more sustainable solution, she began researching how to do her own nails.
Sowah’s journey into nail art was gradual. She started by learning how to do her own lashes and hair before moving on to nails
“I would test them out on myself, I would test them out on my roommates, and after more research, I got better,” Sowah said.
Sowah’s greatest strength is her time management skills, honed from balancing multiple extracurricular activities in high school and her current involvement in the BSA Fashion Show. Despite her impressive skills, Sowah finds it challenging to appreciate her own work..
“I feel like being able to appreciate my own work is sometimes difficult because I always feel like there is something I could have done better,” Sowah said.
This dedication to perfection showcases her commitment to her craft.
Mansfield Photo (@mansfield_photo)
Kenneth Noah Mansfield ‘25 has made a name for himself as a photographer on campus. After working with Loyola’s marketing department and shooting events like the BSA Fashion Show and Loyolapalooza, Mansfield launched his own business. His work has gained recognition, with nine photographs and the cover featured in Corridors, Loyola’s literary art magazine.
Mansfield credits Professor Dan Schlapbach and resources like free access to Adobe Photoshop for supporting his growth as a photographer. One of his most memorable moments was capturing a photograph in Guatemala.
“I was staying in Guatemala in the mountains, and in this photo is Lake Atitlán, which is surrounded by mountains and volcanoes. We were standing up on the side of it. I woke up at 7 a.m. and I saw a guy fishing, so I climbed up the side of the building with my camera thinking I just have to get this photo. Yeah, so I had my camera over my neck on the side of the building and I took the photo. It was kind of scary as I was dangling off the balcony,” Mansfield said.
Other notable student-run businesses include Liv Paints Loyola (@livpaintsloyola), Crafted by Ayo (@craftedbyayo), Abstract Pieces Store (@abstractpiecesstore), and City and Sea Boutique (@cityandseaboutique). These entrepreneurs showcase the diverse talents within the Loyola community.
Student Made-Loyola continues to play a crucial role in fostering student entrepreneurship. As these businesses grow, they not only provide unique products and services but also inspire fellow students to pursue their passions.
Whether through art, crafts, photography, or nail art, these students are making their mark and inspiring others to do the same. For more information about these student entrepreneurs and their work, visit their Instagram sites and @studentmade_loyolamaryland.
