Written by Elizabeth Wynne
Starting a business is never easy. At a young age, it is even more of a challenge, but it can be done.
Founded by Brooke McFarlin, a sophomore in college at The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, College Cleaners is an opportunity for students around the Chattanooga area to pick up a side gig in their busy schedule, while also providing a cleaning service for those looking for an affordable option.
McFarlin started out doing the cleaning, but as the business grew, her role shifted to hiring fellow college students and overseeing the schedules. Becoming an entrepreneur as just a freshman in college, McFarlin wanted to serve a purpose while in school.
“College is a really special time in your life, and it’s not time you’re going to get back,” McFarlin said.
“I love to work and I’m very entrepreneurial,” McFarlin said, discussing the meaning behind starting a business and how it has made an impact on her thus far.
Sharing how she always liked the idea of being her own boss, McFarlin said that is initially what sparked her interest in the business.
McFarlin strives for fellow students to be able to make their own hours, set their own prices, and bond with their community while still having time to prioritize school.
“You’re trying to balance a lot while you’re in school,” McFarlin said. “So I thought about it, and thought, if you are a student that wants to be able to control your own schedule and be your own entrepreneur…and connect with people in your community…you can run to a gig in between classes. It’s perfect.”
McFarlin emphasized that College Cleaners is more than making sure that locals have a clean environment, it’s bringing the community together and offering affordable options, based on a good foundation.
Encouraging people, McFarlin urges others to pursue anything in the entrepreneurial world if inclined. While failure and obstacles are expected, McFarlin said the hustle is worth it in the end, seeing it all come to fruition.
Meet the Storyteller
Elizabeth Wynne is a senior at The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga studying Communications with a minor in Promotion. Wynne is a storyteller whether it is through audio stories for Rising Rock media or as a writer for the University newspaper, The Echo. Passionate about telling stories for those without voices or through highlighting more joyous subjects, Wynne wants to pursue a career in journalism or promotion after graduation in December. Wynne’s professional goal is to work in the music industry as a promoter using her social media expertise. To reach Elizabeth Wynne, you can find her at zbc439@mocs.utc.edu.