Emily Daw, a senior at the University of Texas Permian Basin (UTPB), turned her passion for ceramics into a business venture with the founding of Emily Daw Ceramics. Daw's entrepreneurial journey began while pursuing her undergraduate art degree.
Daw's initiation into ceramics occurred during a mandatory upper-level ceramics course. The foundation of her business was laid with the intent of testing design ideas while leveraging the available resources provided by UTPB, according to a release from UTPB.
"As an artist, you are naturally and consistently creating or inventing new ideas," said Daw in the release. "The struggle comes in trying to find out how your work is interacting in the world." According to Daw, she measures success through various lenses while gaining insights as a business owner and honing her ability to define her intended audience.
Over time, Daw's products and selections have undergone development. She has sold her creations in the Permian Basin and beyond by utilizing the Student Made platform at UTPB.
"Selling in the Permian Basin has created many networking opportunities and has led to different gigs outside the purview of the business," Daw said.
Student Made is an online platform designed for student entrepreneurs, allowing them to buy, create, and sell their products. It has provided Daw with a platform to test ideas and expand her business beyond the local region while also mitigating risks associated with business experimentation. During the fall semester, student products from UTPB were sold in six different states, amassing close to $4,000 in sales. Student Made at UTPB boasts an 89% female participation rate and comprises 42% non-business majors.
As Daw approaches graduation this spring, she has plans to pursue a master's degree. Daw said starting her own business has guided her in defining her post-graduation path and uncovering diverse opportunities within her field.
To view or purchase some of Daw’s creations, visit the Student Made website.