Student Spotlight - Amanda Slattery

Amanda Slattery is a sophomore at UNK who participated in UNK's first 3 Day Startup event earlier this year. She studies Interior Design and Construction Management, and plans to graduate in 2019. Here she shares about her experiences at UNK and how 3DS impacted her as an entrepreneur.

Tell us a little about yourself.

I am currently a sophomore studying Interior Design and Construction Management here at UNK. I grew up in rural southwest Nebraska just outside a small town, Indianola. I attended school in McCook where I was actively involved. I plan on graduating in May of 2019.

Explain what you are studying and what careers it can lead to.

I am studying Interior Design with a minor in Construction Management. Some do not realize but there are so many opportunities for Interior Designers; whether it be residential design, kitchen and bath specialist, or designing different areas of commercial buildings such as offices or sport complexes.

You participated in UNK's first ever 3 Day Startup event back in January. What was the biggest take away you gained from this experience?

From my 3 Day Startup experience I gained so much. My biggest take away from the whole experience was that the possibilities for business ideas are limitless. If you have a crazy idea and you are passionate about it; go out and pitch it to someone! They may love it or they may just give you awesome feedback which could only better your idea!

Explain your group's business pitch at 3DS. What was the inspiration behind this idea?

My group’s business pitch was centered around the idea of a mobile workstation for people wanting to do DIY projects. A mobile trailer would come to you with all the tools you require for your project and a skilled craftsmen would work alongside you to help you with your projects. The inspiration for the project came from the DIY craze. I myself like to redo furniture and décor and I found this summer when I went to redo some tables that I did not have all the tools I needed. It seemed so silly for me to go out and buy the tools for one project though, so I ended up finding a close family friend who had the tools to let me borrow and use them.

How have you pursued this idea or something similar since 3DS has ended?

Unfortunately, I have not had time to pursue this idea further after 3DS. However, the whole experience really helped build my communication and speaking skills. I use these skills in my classes and everyday life which is very helpful! Pitching a business idea is no different than trying to sell anyone on an idea you have as well, so it was very beneficial.

Why did you choose UNK?

I chose UNK because I loved the community. Kearney is such an active community and everyone is so supportive of the college population. Everyone is always more than happy to lend a helping hand to us students!

What has been your favorite part of your UNK experience so far and why?

My favorite part of my UNK experience thus far has been my involvement. I am very involved on campus through my sorority, the Student Interior Design Organization, as well as the Student Sustainability Committee I am a part of. Being involved helps me meet new people and is always opening up opportunities for me.

Name one thing you have learned in your classes that has made a significant impact on you.

One thing I have learned in my classes that has made a significant impact on me is to step back and look at things from every aspect. Sometimes I have crazy ideas in my design classes, but my professors are always willing to help me bring those crazy ideas to life.

What is your dream job?

My dream job would be an interior design position where I can design modern designs while also focusing on sustainability. I feel as though it is very important as a designer for my designs to work with the environment.

Which 3 words would you choose to describe yourself?

If I had to choose three words to describe myself it would be: motivated, artistic, and optimistic.

Who is your inspiration?

My parents are my inspiration. They are both hard working and always push me to do my best. I wouldn’t be where I am today without them!

What is the best piece of advice you've ever received?

The best piece of advice I have every received is to “follow your dreams because you can be whatever you want to.” This is such generic advice that everyone tells children but it is so powerful at the same time.