Social media, despite its significant problems, has provided a medium for many to share their passions and hobbies with the rest of the world. Only a short 15 minutes of scrolling can bring to light many individuals showcasing their art, inventions, or fashion.
There seems to be no shortage of people creating an online portfolio for themselves, and as social media continues to grow and become an integral part in each of our lives, teenagers choose the medium to display their own talents.
North Allegheny students and alumni are no exception. Across all social media platforms, including Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, students are creating videos and short-form content that showcases their individual talents and passions.
NASH alumni Nick Scheuring, NA ’25, runs his own business on Instagram, focusing on his love for sneakers. Buying and selling limited edition shoes, Shop Pxzzled (@shop.pxzzled412) posts videos showing the process of collecting these one of a kind pieces.
“Shoes were always my passion and I figured why not make a living out of what I love. Instagram was the main platform for connections and communication at the time so I decided to launch my business through there,” said Scheuring.
Running an account with the aim of developing it and potentially monetizing it is not easy. In order to grow in popularity, a lot of patience is required.
“A lot of time and effort goes into managing my account, just like any job. It consists of a lot of phone calls and reaching out to others. One thing I have learned about running my account is how to know the market. Either it’s always being active or keeping up with trends. You definitely learn a lot about social media when it is the main source to your business,” he explained.
Along with running a successful account, often business opportunities and unique experiences present themselves. Through his account, Nick Scheuring has met many exciting individuals.
“One of the coolest things I’ve experienced was how far I was able to reach people. I’ve met up with famous rappers and known artists around Pittsburgh. Some of my favorite memories are traveling to go buy or sell some collections. It’s memories and moments like these that make me love my job,” Scheuring reflected.
But it’s not just alumni running successful businesses and managing social media accounts. Current NASH students have created businesses of their own while still attending high school.
Junior Sidney Rice runs her own account, Sidney Rose Sews (@sidney.rose.sews), showcasing her fashion design. From the mannequin to the runway, her work references pop culture and centers uniquely around sustainability.
“I started my account in November of 2024. When managing my account, sometimes I post every day, and sometimes my posts are really spaced out. For me, it’s also about whatever project I’m currently working on,” Rice explained.
Through the success of her account, Sidney has also been able to connect with those who inspire her.
“I’ve had some of my personal favorite designers, movie and TV designers, and other famous people like or comment on my videos, which is so cool!” she said.
And while some students use social media to showcase their hobbies and special interests, other students utilize these platforms to spread awareness and create change. Senior Rae Shanahan runs her nonprofit, Heart & Hem, where she sells clothes she’s designed on her website. The profits from her sales go to survivors of domestic violence in our community.
“When running a business, the right mindset is a necessity. Before Heart & Hem, I had no knowledge on how to start a business and many advised me against it. But due to my passions and resilience, I remained unwavering in my missions and have learned what it takes to run a successful business,” she explained.
Shanahan’s website has experienced exceptional success and she has raised a large amount of money to donate to her community.
“With positivity and optimism, I was able to raise over a thousand dollars for survivors of domestic violence in my community, all thanks to my mindset,” Shanahan elaborated.
What do all of these aspiring teenagers have in common? They were able to advertise and showcase their businesses with just a phone. With the power of the internet, people are now able to connect with anyone anywhere, regardless of location or boundaries. Connection and creation is easier than it has ever been.
