Cynthia enjoys going to school just like any other student in the Queen Creek Unified School District. Like most students, she attends classes, participates in student leadership clubs and makes friends.

But outside of the classroom, things are a bit different for this sixth-grader.

Cynthia’s entrepreneurial spirit has led her to open her own business. Cynthia opened Dear Darlin Stationary about two years ago, an idea that came to her during a family trip to San Diego.

“We saw a cute little stationary shop in downtown La Jolla and we went inside, and I absolutely loved it,” stated Cynthia in a press release. “As I looked around the store, I realized it was something that I could do.”

She started her venture in a huge boutique in her neighborhood called The Eastmark Boutique. There, community members and vendors come and set up booths to sell their items. Some of her wares include fidget spinners, mini backpacks, keychains, pens, hair accessories, and the most popular item of all, stickers.

“I sold over 300 stickers," Cynthia stated. “Lately, we’ve been selling lots of Bluey and Harry Styles stickers.”

Cynthia admitted that record-keeping and setting up shop are some of the biggest challenges she faces in owning a business. Luckily, her parents have helped her with her entrepreneurial path, teaching her how to properly keep track of records and make a game plan leading up to a boutique day.

Aside from the few challenges she faces, Cynthia says her favorite thing about owning Dear Darlin Stationary is meeting new people.

“It’s just really fun to sit at a booth and talk with the people walking up to us,” she said. “My communication skills have really improved from running my store.”

Those interested in inspiring students to become entrepreneurs can fill out the district’s QCUSD Business Partnership Form.