Andrew (A.J.) Dombrowski wasn’t used to stepping outside his comfort zone—he had already found his sweet spot on campus as a four-year member of University of Michigan-Dearborn’s basketball team. But when the opportunity came to become a founding member of the university’s Financial Investment Club, he decided it was time to take a risk and try something new.

The risk seems to be paying off.

In its first full year on campus, the club has launched a virtual stock game that allows students to learn about the stock market in a risk-free environment. A.J. also arranged for the club to offer a series of professional workshops for his College of Business peers and financial literacy workshops for all students on campus.

The club’s faculty co-adviser, Yan (Alice) Xie, said A.J.’s work has helped the organization flourish.

“I have witnessed the tremendous efforts put forth by Andrew to help the club grow,” she said. “He has tried his best to excel in everything he does and takes strong leadership to contribute to our community.”

A.J.’s contributions aren’t limited to the Financial Investment Club.

He completed two internships with American Axle Manufacturing and helped to found Wish-Makers on campus, an extension of Make-A-Wish Michigan that raises money and awareness for the foundation.

A.J. said his work on campus is only the start of the difference he hopes to make as he looks forward to a career as a serial entrepreneur. 

“I want to be a part of something that is bigger than myself and make a positive impact on the world around me,” A.J. said. “I hope that by starting multiple companies, I can help create jobs for my community, provide opportunities for growth, and give back through philanthropy and grass roots initiatives.”