C. T. Bauer College of Business entrepreneurship and finance senior Valeria Serenil is ringing in the new year with a win, landing on Poets&Quants’ Most Disruptive Business School Startups of 2025.

The Wolff Center for Entrepreneurship student is the co-founder and co-owner of Aztec Contractors, a startup that she runs alongside her father. The recognition highlights 22 undergraduate businesses from across the country, including Serenil’s, that show outstanding potential and longevity beyond college.

“A disruptive startup is something that pushes the envelope,” Serenil said. “Beyond that, they empower others to do the same. It's not having the absence of fear, but it's about pushing through even when you are fearful of going after something.”

Serenil credits Bauer College faculty members, including Wolff Center Executive Director David Cook, Dale Rude and Esther Bailey, in paving her entrepreneurial journey. Serenil said her biggest takeaway so far has been that you can’t get to your destination alone.

“Being a part of the Bauer ecosystem is about working together,” she said. “You work with not just the faculty and staff, but also your peers. They are your potential colleagues and can help you reach that success that you're dreaming of.”

“Valeria is taking the very best of what WCE aspires to do — starting businesses and changing lives,” Cook said. “Moments like these are markers on her journey. She has a solid core, knows her values and believes in her dreams. It is really gratifying to see her achievements being recognized in such a prestigious fashion.”

After she graduates, Serenil plans to continue working with Aztec Contractors, while also interning with a fellow Wolff Center alumnus. She also hopes to further define her company’s niche and grow her professional network.

Serenil said her inner circle is what has pushed her to the point that she’s at today.

“This recognition is a culmination of so many mentors, my family and my friends,” she said. “I feel like I'm just getting started. I know I have a lot more growing to do and a lot more to learn.”