2008 Woodie Awards
Changing opportunities into success
Heidi Stenquist
Issue date: 2/26/08 Section: News
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City Times
Students in Free Enterprise, SIFE, held its 11th annual Business Opportunity Marketplace in the Gorton Quad Feb. 27 as part of their curriculum; giving those enrolled hands-on business experience within a network community they create.
SIFE events are similar to project's you might see on "The Apprentice," with similar challenges of creating a business plan, organizing it, finding sponsors, designing a look, advertising, setting up, and left to students to implement. Coordinator Saurice Grady credits SIFE advisor, Dr. Leroy Brady, for "promoting leadership" in students, giving them the tools and resources needed to succeed in business.
The B.O.M event was comprised of companies that have opportunities for students and is part of several ongoing projects led and created by SIFE students each semester in an attempt to bring industry knowledge to fellow on-campus peers about free enterprise.
Blue and white balloons decorated the canopied booths that spotlighted the businesses of Western and Southern Financial Group, the U.S Marine Corp, Washington Mutual, Comerica and entrepreneurial students Miguel Valdez and Marie Disnew, who all showed up with opportunities and information. Student Tim Mitchell, accounting major, was "checking it out," among other passers-by who were treated to Rock Star energy drinks during the sun drenched event.
Christina Rodriguez-Gonzalez, sales representative for Western and Southern Financial Group, was at the event to educate students about "20 Pay Whole Life Insurance," a program for adults or children you pay into for 20 years, then never again. It is a rare investment that lets you pull out the interest in case of emergency, without paying penalties or taxes, and can be used for college or retirement.
Passionate about her work, Christina goes to homes and fingerprints kids with "Child ID Kits" she provides free to parents, bringing along "Play it Safe" coloring books for the kids. With five of her own kids, she has life insurance for all them. She said, "people don't want to think about death," but having recently lost a brother who didn't have insurance, she believes in her work and the peace of mind she brings to families. To set up an in-home free consultation, contact christina.rodriguez-gonzalez@wslife.com.
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