University of Central Florida Launches Student-Only Market Day

News Summary

The University of Central Florida recently held its inaugural student-only Market Day, featuring around 20 different vendors showcasing unique merchandise. From handmade jewelry to thrifted clothing, students enthusiastically engaged with vendors, highlighting local creativity and culture. However, some vendors expressed concerns over lower attendance compared to past events. Despite the challenges, many participants are optimistic about future market days, emphasizing the opportunity for student entrepreneurs to flourish in a supportive environment.

Exciting Market Day at UCF: A Showcase of Student Creativity!

Welcome to sunny Orlando, where the University of Central Florida (UCF) just kicked off its very first student-only Market Day right outside the Student Union! The bustling event held on Thursday featured a vibrant mix of UCF’s talented student vendors, all eager to showcase their unique and personalized merchandise to fellow Knights.

The Atmosphere

Can you feel the excitement? With roughly 20 different vendors showcasing everything from thrifted clothing to handmade jewelry, it was a treasure trove of student creativity! Attendees got to browse through booths filled with eclectic offerings including crochets, stationery, shoes, trinkets, and even fundraising promotions. Imagine the buzz of students enthusiastically chatting about their passion projects while surrounded by a colorful array of products!

Spotlight on Student Vendors

One of the standout vendors was Eryka Salta, a junior majoring in health sciences. She proudly presented her own stationery company, EryBeary Company, offering products she expertly sourced from the Philippines. It’s not just about selling; it’s about representing cultures and stories—something many vendors enjoyed expressing. For Salta, this event was an amazing opportunity to connect with customers and gain visibility for student-owned businesses over larger corporations.

Another booth that caught the eye was Isla Morenna, run by UCF juniors Dania Alvarado and Micaela Tello. Their collection of hand-crocheted swimwear and clothing is not only stylish but also made from sourced materials from second-hand stores. Alvarado hails from Mexico, while Tello’s roots are in Peru, allowing their collections to be a beautiful jigsaw of their cultural backgrounds.

Selling Challenges

lower attendance compared to the usual buzz of Market Day Wednesdays. Karla Pierre, a 2020 alumna, pointed out the noticeable decline in foot traffic, which caught several of the vendors by surprise. Similarly, Alanis Arocho and Sophia Diaz, seniors in environmental studies who launched their jewelry business, AA Jewelers, shared similar feedback regarding the attendance levels.

A Space for Growth

Kat’s Crochet. She mentioned the positive aspects of having a student-exclusive market, highlighting how it provides an invaluable chance for vendors to promote their work and connect with customers in a less competitive setting. This focused environment was a breath of fresh air for many, allowing them to focus on building relationships without the overshadowing presence of larger commercial vendors.

The Future of Market Day

continued growth and exposure. After all, showcasing creativity and passion right at their doorstep is a dynamic way to foster a supportive community within UCF.

In the end, UCF’s first student-only Market Day became more than just an event; it became a celebration of student spirit, creativity, and the entrepreneurial drive of the Knights. With hopes for improved turnout in future events, it looks like this initiative is just the start of something spectacular!

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Additional Resources

• Nicholson Student Media: First Student-Only Market
• Nicholson Student Media: UCF’s First Asian Pacific Islander-American Caucus Market Day
• News-Journal Online: UCF Knights Football Ticket Prices
• Nicholson Student Media: UCF Celebrates LGBTQ History Month
• Your Community Paper: Downtown Market Day at Creative Village

Author: HERE Orlando