COMMUNITY STORIES: ADONIAH LEE
My name is Adoniah and I am the owner of Designs by Adoniah. I’m from the big ol’ city of McCamey, Texas! (If you are from around the area, you could say that’s a bit of a stretch haha) I’m currently studying Business Management at the University of Texas Permian Basin and I am absolutely loving it! The plan is to graduate at the end of 2024!
I make and sell quite a few different items, including smellies (freshies/air fresheners), jewelry (beaded, stamped, and resin!) and pet tags!
Growing up in McCamey has really been a big part in who I am today. Coming from a small West Texas town, the Western/Native American/Mexican culture has a huge impact on the products I create! I love helping others embrace their culture as well as make other fun and unique items!
I’ve been running Designs by Adoniah since I was a sophomore in high school, which is about 5 years now. I wanted to start a business of my own because I just don’t see myself working for someone where I can’t use my creativity as much. I just love using my skills to create pieces that make my customers smile. Because we all need those little things in life that bring us a little joy, like hanging a cute air freshener with your favorite scent from your rear view mirror. :) I hope one day I can bring my vision and creativity to a storefront.
I chose to attend UTPB because it’s close to home and being able to see my family was very important to me. Not to mention that the environment of the school has that family feel! I also love that the university is on the smaller side, I feel like I can easily get the help and connection I need.
I’m not sure how long I will pursue this small business of mine, but I can say that the courses I’m taking for my Business Management degree have certainly helped me in various aspects of my business and have even grown my entrepreneurial spirit!
One of the biggest struggles I have faced is balancing my time between life, school, and business. I wish there were more hours in the day so I had that extra time to fulfill orders quicker and to have more time to create new designs and ideas! Which is one reason why I am extremely thankful for the Student-Made community.
It’s awesome to be a part of a community doing the same thing you are! We all might make different forms of art but we’re brought together. It’s a group of individuals going through many of the same struggles and the community shows me I’m not alone. I love the encouragement I get in all the posts, group-chats, emails, and events!
This organization is making a difference in our journeys, they are so FOR us! They want to help in whatever way they can! I can’t wait to continue to make new friends and grow my business with the help of Student-Made!
Submit the form in your Resource Portal to let us know your interest in sharing your journey with our Student-Made community— whether you’re a Creator or Manager! We’ll be in touch with you soon about helping you craft your inspiring story.
