by Ella Smith, Student Public Relations Writer
From childhood MiaRose Hess has always had an entrepreneurial mindset dreaming of the day she had a business of her own. She never imagined, however, that a simple love for baking would turn into something much bigger — until she arrived at Cedarville University.
In September 2024, the freshman from Spencer, Indiana, opened The Bagel Girl, a homemade Greek yogurt bagel business. With this new business, she is using her education to exercise her entrepreneurial spirit.
“I’ve always wanted to start a business. I’ve always loved baking,” said Hess. “I don’t know what’s in store in the future, but I know this is something I want to do now and learn from while I’m still in college.”
Since opening the new business, Hess has provided 72 bagels for a “Bagel Day” for Cedarville students in Willetts Hall.
Hess's journey to Cedarville started with a different dream — one that involved horses, not bagels. Initially drawn to a career in equine management, Hess began researching what it would take to turn that passion into a business. Conversations with industry professionals led her to realize the importance of gaining strong business experience and, more importantly, finding a college where she could get a Christ-centered education.
That search led her to Cedarville, a place where she could do both.
“Cedarville has been able to provide such a good community. It’s been amazing. Everyone is so kind and supportive,” said Hess. “The CUE (Cedarville University Entrepreneurship) organization has been so helpful. They were my first customers and the first people willing to jump in and help me with pictures and marketing.”
While baking has always been a passion, Hess credits her business classes with giving her the tools to turn The Bagel Girl into a reality.
That hands-on learning came full circle on February 7 when Hess set up a table at The Pitch, Cedarville’s Shark Tank-style competition where students display their business ideas.
“Sitting at my table during the pre-Pitch was such a great experience,” said Hess. “I remember visiting Cedarville as a senior in high school, going to see The Pitch, and looking at all these student businesses set up outside. I thought it was amazing then, so sitting at my own table with my own business was incredible.”
Hess plans to expand The Bagel Girl by introducing new flavors, exploring catering and bulk order options and even shipping bagels beyond Cedarville's campus.
With a business mindset, a heart for community and a talent for baking, Hess is proving that sometimes, the best opportunities come when you are willing to take that first step.
Cedarville University, an evangelical Christian institution in southwest Ohio, offers undergraduate and graduate residential and online programs across arts, sciences, and professional fields. With 6,384 students, it ranks among Ohio's largest private universities and is recognized by The Wall Street Journal as being among the nation’s top three evangelical universities. Cedarville is also known for its vibrant Christian community, challenging academics, and high graduation and retention rates. Learn more at cedarville.edu.