From class assignment to startup, Ethan Abi-Jaoude ’29 builds his own EdTech platform

What began as a business class assignment quickly became something more for Ethan Abi-Jaoude ’29. The Business Administration and Cybersecurity double major turned a hypothetical company project into an adaptable smartphone application designed to help students better navigate academic and professional opportunities. After earning his classmates’ praise, he’s inviting the Aurora University community to help name the app, which was built right on campus.

What inspired you to start building in the EdTech space?

I saw a clear gap in how students interact with their education and opportunities. Technology has advanced quickly, but many aspects of student life are still disconnected. I’ve always wanted to create something that genuinely helps people, and this was the perfect opportunity. Now I’m building something for students, by a student, that improves their college experience. If technology can help students form connections, discover opportunities, and better prepare for their futures, then it can have a real and lasting impact.

How did the idea first come to life at AU?

The idea first came to life in my Foundations of Management class when we were assigned to create a hypothetical company and present it as part of a project. Instead of treating this as just an assignment, I decided to research real problems students face.

When I presented the concept, the response was incredibly positive. My classmates were excited, engaged, and interested in the idea. That’s when I realized it had real potential beyond the classroom. From there, I began turning the concept into a working platform. Aurora University is where it started, and that foundation means a lot to me.

What does the app do, and who is it designed for?

The app is designed to simplify and enhance the student experience by bringing important aspects of academic and professional development into one adaptive platform. It aims to help students stay organized, discover opportunities, and connect with the right people and resources throughout their college journey.

While the idea was created here, the vision is to build something that can support students across universities everywhere while always recognizing AU as the place where it began.

How has AU supported you in bringing this idea to life?

Aurora University has played a huge role in helping bring this idea to life. It began in the classroom, but since then, I’ve had the opportunity to speak with faculty members, administrators, and other people across campus who have offered guidance and support. AU creates an environment where students feel encouraged to innovate and build. Being able to develop something and gain institutional support has been an incredible experience.

Why invite the campus community to help name the app — and what should that name represent?

AU is where everything started, so I wanted students to feel involved and connected to what’s being built. The strongest ideas grow from their roots, and involving the community creates a sense of ownership and pride. This isn’t just something created by one person — it intentionally represents the innovation and spirit of Aurora University.

I’m looking for a name that feels modern, memorable, and meaningful — something professional enough for universities but still relatable and recognizable to students. Most importantly, it should embody the mission of helping students connect, grow, and unlock opportunities.

What is one piece of advice you would share with other students?

Start before you feel ready. You don’t need to have everything figured out to begin creating something meaningful. AU provides the environment, support, and opportunities to turn ideas into reality. If you have an idea or passion, take the first step and commit to it. You never know how far it can go.

The AU community is invited to submit name ideas for the app through an online form.