Students

Developing a Dazzling Business

Posted
March 19, 2024
Pace University Lubin School of Business student Isabella Betancourth

Isabella Betancourth

Class of 2027

Currently Studying: BBA in Finance

Member Of: Entrepreneurship Club

Pronouns: She/Her

Many first-year students focus on adapting to their new college environment, but Isabella Betancourth jumped right in, going after opportunities that would make her a better business owner. From joining the Entrepreneurship Club to using on-campus resources to learn about strong business practices, Isabella is on the right path to grow her business, Isabella’s Jewels – and she’s just getting started.

Why did you choose Pace University and the Lubin School of Business?

Growing up in New Jersey, I constantly visited Manhattan, which led me to fall in love with the city. There are so many fun things to do and places to discover, so it was a no-brainer to continue my studies at Pace University. As for studying at Lubin, attending a business school that is well known for preparing their students for the real world was important to me.

Most of all, being in the heart of the Financial District as a finance major is incredible, and I can’t wait for the opportunities I will have over the next few years.

How have clubs on campus helped enrich your student experience?

So far, I’ve joined the Entrepreneurship Club, which really spoke to me and my passions. This club has introduced me to Pace University’s Small Business Development Center and Pace Entrepreneurship Studio here at Pace - both of which I’m excited to start working with and use their resources to grow my business.

Tell us about your business, Isabella’s Jewels.

Isabella’s Jewels is a fine jewelry company featuring 925 Sterling Silver and 14k gold vermeil pieces. Our website features a high-quality curated collection of trendy and timeless accessories at an affordable price point. Isabella’s Jewels pieces are designed in New York City and imported from Italy, ensuring that each piece is not only a style statement but also a lasting investment intended for everyday wear. Our pieces are available online at Isabellasjewels.shop, as well as through pop-up events through partnerships with small businesses such as boutiques, salons, and workout studios across New Jersey and New York.

What motivated you to launch Isabella’s Jewels?

I’ve always been very entrepreneurial - it’s how I express my creativity. Ever since I was young, I would launch little businesses that revolve around the latest trends. It went from selling handmade rainbow loom bracelets, stickers, and lip scrubs in my elementary school years to shipping hundreds of custom college apparel pieces across the country through my last business, Icon Sweats. Using my experience and funds from four years of growing Icon Sweats, I decided I wanted to start something new and chose jewelry, something every woman wears and loves.

How have your classes at Lubin helped you grow your business even further?

Although I only just finished my first semester here at Pace, my professors and the courses I’ve had have helped me strengthen the business foundation I already had. I’ve been able to use the concepts I’ve learned to make better business decisions. Mastering Excel spreadsheet skills in my Intro to Computing course has also made a big impact. Excel has helped me organize my business materials and inventory in a way I had not been introduced to before!

What has been your favorite opportunity at Pace?

Being on the Dean’s List with first honors after my first semester was amazing. Hard work pays off! Also, this experience - having a profile written on me for the Lubin School of Business - is such an honor. I’m grateful for the recognition and support that Pace University is giving me and my business.

Do you have any advice for other Lubin students?

Follow your dreams, stay focused, and make connections. People from all over come to New York City to pursue their dreams. There are so many opportunities and resources here, and you should go for it. Stay focused, show up to class, and take your coursework seriously because there are no do-overs once these four years pass. Most importantly, make connections. You are in the business capital of the world, and the people you know can make a difference in your career.

What does #LubinLife mean to you?

To me, #LubinLife means embracing the community around you at Pace University in order to succeed. Students appreciate learning from their diverse classmates, taking advantage of the business opportunities around them, and challenging themselves in order to grow into better people and professionals.

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