Today we’d like to introduce you to Jessica “Jay” Hill, Shaye Brown and Kelsei Etchison.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Jessica, Shaye and Kelsei. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
It started off as a nickname for myself. When friends would see me at events, they would call me “Big Drip.” This is because I have been known to be a trendsetter when it comes to the latest fashions, styles and of course, I’m a sneakerhead. I commented on my Neo’s post and said “Drip” and she responded to my comment and said that “She was a student in my class and she went to Big Drip University.” Months later after reflecting on that name, Big Drip U was born.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
For me, it has been a smooth road for the most part. The reason that it has been a smooth road is because of the team that I have behind me and their support. The smooth portion comes from us being able to identify our strengths. Where one is weak, the other can fill in the gaps. The main struggle that we have faced is getting our name out there and getting people to follow our social media platforms. Though this is a struggle, we have taken a different approach to ensure that this will not be an issue for us moving forward. My advice is to make sure that you are a part of a team that is equally yoked. Each team member should understand and know that they play a vital role in the success of the company. Also, make sure that you hold yourself and your team accountable so that when you do face the rough times, you don’t have to bear the burden alone. We can come together and regroup and come up with a strategy to make things better.
What should we know about Big Drip University? What do you do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
Big Drip is an institution/organization committed to preserving fashion, music and black culture. Our goal is to be a pillar in the community reminding up and coming leaders that you can drip as well as be educated. Big Drip U currently has multiple avenues that we are currently pursuing, such as, humanitarianism for example, each of us giving back to our schools, communities. Merchandising by providing our audience with Drip apparel, beauty/cosmetics and offering the service of styling drippers for various events.
We are most proud of the unity that we are trying build within our culture, especially being a team of black women. Our ability to create a positive platform to post and discuss fashion, style and culture to serve in uplifting our community is what sets us apart from others.
Do you have a lesson or advice you’d like to share with young women just starting out?
Remember the reason that you started. We all go through tough times in our career and may feel defeated, but when you remember why you chose that career, it gives you a needed push. Make sure you surround yourself with positive people who motivate and encourage you to be the best you, not yes men. Lastly, be optimistic see the brighter side to everything, even things you consider “Ls” because there is growth and development within that lesson.
Pricing:
- $20 for Big Drip U Crest shirts
Contact Info:
- Email: bigdripu@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bduniversity19/
- Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/BigDripu/
- Twitter: https://mobile.twitter.com/BigDripU2
Image Credit:
PH Services for photo; Flintdesignz for the logo
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