The Shoemaker Scholars program brings together 10 Indiana University Bloomington students from a variety of academic disciplines. They encourage other students to explore their own entrepreneurial and innovative interests, and they oversee the StartupIU website that connects students with university-based startups. John and Donna Shoemaker funded the program, which awards annual scholarships to its members. Travis J. Brown launched and directs the program.
Brady Anderson, a sophomore from Noblesville, Indiana, majors in computer science in the Luddy School of Informatics, Computing and Engineering. This is his first semester as a Shoemaker Scholar.
“I’m very excited to return to Bloomington and further connect with my existing friends and new ones,” Anderson said. “Additionally, I will be able to really help people through the Shoemaker Scholars group, which will help me stay engaged in an active community. I love IU, and being on campus gives me a feeling of excitement and joy!”
Crimson Catalyst: What is the biggest impact Shoemaker Scholars have?
Brady Anderson: The biggest impact I’ve personally experienced from the program is being able to finally bridge the gap between the university and the community. The Scholars are really effective at helping people navigate between silos!
CC: How did you learn about the Shoemakers Scholars program?
BA: Through the Shoemaker Innovation Center and the events hosted by the Scholars through the space.
CC: What do you enjoy most as a Shoemaker Scholar?
BA: I am very new to the role, but I anticipate enjoying helping others connect to new opportunities and grow as entrepreneurs!
CC: What is a common misconception students have about entrepreneurship and innovation?
BA: Most people believe that you have to have one idea and stick to a single thing to be successful or to have a business that works.
CC: How do you share insights with others, as an ambassador?
BA: Usually through conversation or events.
CC: What are your own entrepreneurial endeavors?
BA: My entrepreneurial endeavors include three projects. First is Liftoff Drone Education, which provides online coding and flight training for drones. Next is a new project called MyJailHelp, which makes it so people can process bail bonds online and optimizes the process of applying for bail while allowing the users to stay anonymous. Finally, I have Mapped Out, which uses AI-enabled chatbots to send campus events and online events to students so they can remain engaged through a personalized tool.
More information about the Shoemaker Scholars program is available at the following websites:
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