Episode 19: The Student Who Balanced Books and Business

Join the Rise With Joice Circle

“While others waited for placement, she placed herself in purpose.”


Ananya was a final-year commerce student from a small town.

She loved her subjects, but she also had a gift—making handmade gift hampers for birthdays and anniversaries.

What started as favors for hostel friends slowly turned into paid orders.

One semester break, she said:

“Why wait for a job, when I can create one?”


Classes by Day, Orders by Night

She made hampers with love:

  1. Chocolates wrapped in pastel cloth
  2. Personalized messages
  3. Handmade soaps and jars of jam
  4. Budget-friendly packaging with recycled materials

She marketed through Instagram reels, student WhatsApp groups, and word-of-mouth.

By the time her batch graduated, she had a waiting list of 40+ orders.


She Graduated With a Degree and a Business License

Ananya registered her brand: “Wrap & Wonder.”

Now, she partners with small women-led brands to include eco-products in her hampers.

She employs two women from her neighborhood part-time.


“She turned pressure into potential—and passion into profit.”


Ananya’s Tip for Every Student With a Side Skill:

  1. Start now. Imperfect is better than undone.
  2. Don’t be afraid of small beginnings.
  3. Passion projects can turn into powerful platforms.


#RiseAgain #StudentBoss #BusinessInBackpack #SideHustleSuccess #YoungAndDriven #Episode19 #risewithjoice

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