GDS Independent Study Supports Student Startup

Michael Juergens ’25 had always dreamed of starting his own business. Thanks to the Independent Study program at Greensboro Day School, that dream became a reality with the launch of Michael’s business, 3DPrintedBusts, which creates high quality 3D printed busts of customers’ friends and loved ones.

After taking the Entrepreneurial Problem Solving class in Semester 1, Michael was inspired to approach Upper School Director Ryan Cook about creating an individualized curriculum for an Independent Study. With the curriculum and assessments built around Michael’s startup idea, he has been able to focus on developing his business plans and getting them market-ready. Throughout the process, Michael conducted market research, pitched his ideas to people that support his business launch, and developed a marketing strategy.

An example of the 3D printed busts produced by Michael's company

Michael said that he has felt supported throughout his Independent Study. “Whenever I go to Mr. Cook,” he said, “I know that things are going to get moving. He’s always on it! We have had a lot of very enriching discussions on various topics, including the importance of how to target various market segments, effective promotion and pricing, and the logistics of bringing my product to market.”

Michael says that 3DPrintedBusts offers customers the opportunity to honor, celebrate, and memorialize their loved ones. If you’d like to learn more, visit 3DPrintedBusts.com or stop by Michael’s table at Bengal Dash on April 26. Michael invites those in the GDS community to use the promo code GDSFAMILY when ordering in order to receive a special discount.