My CEO experience was amazing and unforgettable. Every day brought something new. As a class we worked on projects, visited local businesses, and heard from business owners who shared advice about entrepreneurship, leadership, and running a company. Those talks gave me a clearer idea of what it takes to start and manage a business and taught me communication, teamwork, and responsibility.

One of our first projects was the badge business. My group hosted a pickleball tournament to raise money for our badges. Planning required teamwork and organization, and it taught me the importance of preparation and marketing. Next, our class business was a golf tournament. We spent weeks preparing, and in March we raised a little over $5,000 to support our personal businesses.

Toward the end of the year we developed our own businesses. Mine is Momma’s Hot Sauce. I created three flavors: a strong habanero, a smoother jalapeño, and a horseradish kick. I prepared and bottled my sauces for the trade show on April 27, where I sold about 80 bottles and made a little over $650.

Overall, CEO was an incredible experience that taught me so much about business, leadership, and myself. I made memories, learned valuable skills, and met great people. I truly wish I had more time with the class because I enjoyed every part of it.