Entrepreneurship and computer science share more similarities than meets the eye. Both fields thrive on problem-solving, innovation, and the pursuit of creating solutions that address current challenges and shape the future. Ashwin Gulaya, a computer science student at the Barrett Honors College, embraced these traits during the fall semester of his senior year in FSE 301- Entrepreneurship & Value Creation, where he brought an undeveloped idea to life with TAGURIT, a fashion brand that sells affordable and fashionable charm-like accessories to enhance anyone’s personal styles.
As a fashion enthusiast, Ashwin empathized with the struggles of discovering stylish yet affordable statement pieces. Initially, Ashwin believed that other fashion enthusiasts were struggling to discover fresh styles and designs that align with their desired aesthetics. This was the original problem that prompted Ashwin to begin the TAGURIT venture. Passionate about providing accessible routes for self-expression through fashion, he utilized his creativity and problem solving skills to create a product that can empower individuals to freely express their unique identities.
However, after delving into meticulous field research and prioritizing the “why” before the “what,” he uncovered that the core issues primarily revolved around pricing and coordination of outfits and accessories. In an interview, Arizona State University alumnus Alannah Martin indicated her interest in breaking free from her stagnant wardrobe. Although she is interested in expressing herself through new clothing and accessories, expensive pricing makes her stick to her current wardrobe. Through trial-and-error and the cultivation of an entrepreneurial mindset, Ashwin successfully designed a better concept for a customizable and budget-friendly accessory, tailored to meet customer needs.
To Ashwin, this class served as a platform to transpose his analytical and technical engineering skills onto an entrepreneurial landscape. Working alongside talented and creative peers, he learned that maintaining an innovative mindset requires open-mindedness and a willingness to embrace failure as a stepping stone toward future success. Unaccustomed to how a startup business develops, Ashwin garnered invaluable insights into the significance of customer development and proficient marketing techniques. He has grown a fond appreciation for the intricate process of creating a business, recognizing that entrepreneurship demands adaptability, consistently refining concepts, and an eagerness to learn.
“When people hear about an entrepreneur, they often picture a person organizing and operating a business. What they often overlook is that the entrepreneurial mindset is transferable to every career, hobby, and action you undertake. Maintaining an open mind and embracing the concept of failure are only just two of the vital traits of a successful entrepreneur that I believe will contribute to my growth both as an engineer and as a person.”
Click here to watch the pitch for TAGURIT.
Prototype design for TAGURIT:
