What it Means to Be an Academy Scholar
The goal of Academy Scholars is to empower students to think big, create, problem-solve, adapt, and achieve — and to embrace that those skills form an ongoing process that requires grit and resilience.
This program is our hands-on entrepreneurship course, allowing students to develop their skills beyond the traditional classroom. Students meet every other day in the classroom following a curriculum that prepares them to build real, successful businesses. Students also receive training in the Creative Problem Solving process, and opportunities to opt into a leadership certification program.
We are also affiliated with two international programs: Students for the Advancement of Global Entrepreneurship (SAGE) and Virtual Enterprises International – both of which provide a framework for coursework, opportunities to compete and to network with other students locally and internationally.
Most importantly, our program gives students a safe space to develop the creativity, leadership, problem-solving and communication skills that are so vital to building an interesting, high-impact life and career.
Work with the best in the world
The week-to-week life of a Mount St. Mary student entrepreneur involves consistently developing and refining products and services, developing and expanding targeted marketing efforts, focusing on cash flow and expenses, and making sure that all members of a business are engaged, challenged and heard. They also meet with guest speakers and work with business mentors, both in person and virtually, who have reached the highest levels of their field.
Our Academy Scholars’ contacts have included major media executives, corporate CEOs, former members of Congress, social entrepreneurs, a leader in 9/11 recovery efforts, start-up experts, and business consultants.
Ready to roll up your sleeves?
While this program is designed to attract those with an entrepreneurial spirit, we welcome students who are self-motivated and ready to make a big impact. We work with the students each year to generate exciting, innovative business ideas. From sports management, concert & event promotion, retail, fashion, sustainability, and so much more — MSM students have the opportunity to create real businesses that support their passions!
Program FAQs
Can students switch which business they’re involved in?
Yes, students are encouraged to put their time and energy behind businesses that they’re excited about. As their interests change, so can their involvement in different opportunities in the program.
Do students have to apply to participate?
This is an elective course that students can be recommended to participate in. Freshmen can be invited to participate in this program by letting our admissions department know they are interested as part of the application process. Participation in this program is limited to appropriate class size constraints.
How are trips funded?
Travel expenses are ultimately the student’s responsibility to pay their way. However, many businesses run fundraisers to support their travel and business expenses. Travel is always optional.
Is this a four-year program?
While many of our students participate in the program for many years, there is no expectation that students remain in the program from year to year. You do not need to start as a freshman to participate in this course.
Is this program extra curricular?
No. This class meets every other day during the school day. It is a class that is taken for a pass/fail credit. There are activities that occasionally happen outside of the classroom/school day, including opportunities to travel across WNY and beyond.
Meet Our Businesses!
Fresh Start Fitness
Fresh Start Fitness is a virtual business at Mount St. Mary Academy dedicated to helping individuals become their best selves—physically and mentally. We know that to perform your best on the field, court, or in daily life, you first need to be mentally strong. That’s why we offer fully personalized membership packages, including gym memberships, meal plans, and life coaching, to guide you toward your health goals.
Although our business is virtual, it runs just like a real one. Our team collaborates to solve a common problem: overcoming the barriers to mental and physical well-being. Many of us understand these challenges firsthand as student-athletes, which fuels our passion to help others. While our salaries, bills, and products may be simulated, the leadership, problem-solving, and life skills we develop are very real. At Fresh Start Fitness, we’re proud to raise awareness about the vital connection between mental and physical health while striving to make a lasting impact.
Rumbler Records
‘Rumbler Records’ is a student-run concert promotion company founded in 2022 by four students from Mount St. Mary Academy. With a passion for supporting local talent, Rumbler Records is dedicated to promoting, showcasing, and empowering young and emerging artists in the Buffalo area through live music events. Over the last two years, Rumbler Records has successfully organized over 10 concerts, including a Battle of the Bands competition featuring eight local bands and drawing more than 100 guests.
As the business continues to grow, Rumbler Records remains committed to creating a vibrant local music scene by hosting community-driven events that highlight the creativity and talent of Buffalo’s up-and-coming musicians.
Fly By Fashion
Fly By Fashion is a female, student-run Virtual Enterprise Firm. We’re on a mission to bring stylish and mindful fashion to people all over the globe. Recognizing that fast fashion is a large contributor to global pollution, our team strives to connect with fashion enthusiasts who want to invest in our climate. We address this issue by prioritizing eco-conscious materials, fair wages, and quality clothing.
Through this program, we learn how to public speak, present in front of industry professionals, collaborate, and create business materials while learning to understand the inner workings of our industry.
FLAG Football
F.L.A.G Football, which stands for Female Leaders Advocating the Game, is sanctioned by the NFL, and we’re the first the private school to run such a program in WNY.
Thunder Storm Cafe
The cafe’s mission is to create a warm, inviting atmosphere where the Mount Saint Mary community can take a moment to breathe and rewind. We have an expansive menu of drinks and baked goods. It’s a comfortable place to spend time before and after school.
Mountie Pops
Mountie Pops provides an alternative baked goods option in the cafeteria. These cake pops are creative and festive while being served during holiday seasons. The treats are available for any individual in the MSM community looking for a quick bite.
