When BHS Junior Christina Guirguis entered the West Virginia High School Business Plan Competition last fall, the wheels had actually started turning three months prior to that when she attended the Governor’s School for Entrepreneurship (GSE).  The three-week program awarded Guirguis the Outstanding Entrepreneur Award for her contributions to her group project and encouraged her to enter the statewide contest once she returned to school. 

 

“This wasn’t just a project for me,” said Guirguis, “It represents something I really want to pursue.” 

 

Her business idea is for a food truck that serves gourmet toppings on French fries.   Now approaching the final round of competition as one of the top 10 finalists in the state, Guirguis called upon a local food truck guru for his input on her business plan. 

 

“Having Cody Trasher help me with the business plan has been such a valuable part of the process.  He knows the ins and outs of the food truck business and has given me a realistic view of what to expect when I open my own,” said Guirguis.

 

Thrasher has volunteered his time and expertise on more than one occasion, taking Guirguis under his wing to show her the infinite possibilities that come with a food truck business.

 

“Christina has a good head on her shoulders and is committed to making this business a reality,” said Thrasher.  “It has been great working with her during the final round of competition and seeing her creativity expand.  She is a force to be reckoned with and I have no doubt she will give it her all.”

 

Guirguis has also been coached by two experts at the University of Charleston, making weekly trips to put the finishing touches on her plan. 

 

“Having input from those in the industry has given me insight into the big picture of writing a business plan.  I am so lucky to have such a supportive team behind me and I can’t wait to present the final project in March.”

 

The top 10 finalists in the WV High School Business Plan Competition will compete on March 18 at WVU for the coveted $10,000 scholarship.  As the first student from BHS to ever be in the running for the prize, Guirguis looks forward to representing her idea and the school and to the learning process that has taken place throughout the competition.

 

“I have committed a lot of time and energy to this competition, but ultimately, I know my business will be successful regardless of the results on the 18^th,” said Guirguis.  “I encourage students to take advantage of attending the Governor’s School of Entrepreneurship this summer and to enter the WV High School Business Plan Competition next year because it really can make your vision a reality if you are willing to work for it.”