In the world of business, some leaders start young. For Lily Krut, leadership began with a sewing machine, a summer camp, and a journal.
Now a student at Michigan State University’s Eli Broad Business School, Lily is showing that hard work, creativity, and giving back can all go hand-in-hand—even before graduating.
Who Is Lily Krut?
Lily grew up in Birmingham, Michigan. Her childhood was full of activity—dancing at Studio A, playing softball, and hitting tennis courts for Groves High School.
But even as a student-athlete, she stood out in the classroom too. Lily earned high honors all four years and received the Academic Scholar Award in both her junior and senior years. “I always liked structure,” she says. “It helped me stay focused, whether I was studying or on the field.”
She graduated from Groves High School in 2023 and quickly made a mark at Michigan State. In just her first two years, she made the Dean’s List both semesters. Now, she’s exploring the business world as an intern for Campus Ink, a Chicago-based company working with college students nationwide.
What Is Campus Ink and Why It Matters
Campus Ink is a platform that helps student entrepreneurs sell custom apparel and manage merchandise. Lily joined their internship program in summer 2025. She sees it as a hands-on way to learn real-world skills.
“I wanted to be part of something fast-paced,” she explains. “At Campus Ink, we get to talk with clients, manage orders, and build real sales experience. It’s not just paperwork.”
For Lily, it’s about seeing what business looks like from the inside out—and figuring out where she fits in.
The Power of Summer Jobs
Before interning at Campus Ink, Lily spent her summers working at Elena Victoria Camps. There, she taught young kids how to make jewelry and sew. She credits those camps with helping her learn patience, communication, and leadership.
“Working with kids is no joke,” she laughs. “You have to keep them safe, engaged, and having fun all at once. I learned to speak clearly and listen more.”
That summer job sparked a love for hands-on work—and for helping others grow. It also tied back to her passion for fashion, something she still explores in campus clubs and creative projects.
Community Ties and Charity Work
Lily’s story is also one of service. Her mom, Jennifer, runs a charity called My Story, which donates journals and art supplies to kids in local shelters. Lily helps regularly.
“We want them to feel seen,” Lily says. “A journal can give someone a place to be heard.”
Every year, Lily’s family also “adopts” local families during the holidays. They buy gifts, deliver food, and spend time helping families who are going through hard times.
She also donates to causes close to home—ALS research, the Jewish Federation, Chabad, and Care House of Oakland County. She volunteers at Yad Ezra to help Jewish families in Michigan get groceries.
“I don’t think giving has to be huge,” she explains. “Even showing up, packing bags, or delivering gifts can make a big difference.”
Business with Purpose
Now, as she studies business, Lily is thinking ahead. She wants to bring her values into whatever career she chooses. “I care about people,” she says. “If I work in fashion or sales or management, I want that human part to stay with me.”
She believes leadership starts with showing up, doing the work, and caring about details. “I learned that helping a kid finish a bracelet or handing someone a meal teaches you more than some textbooks.”
Lessons Learned Early
Lily’s path hasn’t been about chasing titles. It’s been about building experience—little by little. Whether she’s helping campers thread a needle or clients launch a new t-shirt design, she keeps learning.
“If something goes wrong, I ask why. I try not to panic. Fix it, then improve it.”
It’s a mindset that will serve her well in any industry.
Final Thoughts
In a time when college students often feel pressure to be perfect, Lily Krut offers a refreshing model: stay active, stay grounded, and give back. Her blend of business drive, community service, and creativity shows what it means to lead with purpose.
As she puts it, “I’m still figuring it out. But I know that being useful, being kind, and staying curious—that’s a solid start.”
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