Starting Small: How One Stanford Grad Built a Business When Jobs Weren't Available

A 2025 Stanford graduate spent months applying for jobs without success. After graduating, they still hadn't secured a full-time role despite seven years of marketing experience, including work for tech companies during college. Many applicants, including recent grads and laid-off workers, competed for fewer jobs, making the market tougher than expected. Instead of waiting, they took on side gigs like managing a book campaign and assisting a journalist. Even though these jobs paid less, they enjoyed the work and saw real impact. This led to starting their own publicity agency three weeks before graduation. With support from family, they filed paperwork, built a website, and turned side projects into clients through cold emails.For the first few months, income was unpredictable. They lived frugally, sold personal items, and worked long hours. Within six months, earnings surpassed entry-level job salaries. By early 2026, the business hit six figures, serving over a dozen clients and connecting writers with media outlets. The experience shifted their view on work. They realized success isn't automatic after graduation or milestone achievements. Life changes direction often, and stability isn't guaranteed. Starting a business is risky, but it offers control over income and growth potential.