Building for the future

How one college student channeled his passion into a business opportunity
By Erica Martin

The summer after his freshman year at Goshen College, Nate Gautsche purchased his first house. Buying a house is obviously not something most college students think about doing, but growing up, Nate had worked on rental properties with his dad, developing skills that were not only useful, but that he enjoyed. With encouragement and financial help from his family, Nate decided to turn his talent into something he could work for, and that in turn, would work for him.

“I thought it would be fun to fix up an old house,” Nate said, “I really didn’t look at it as a job; it was a hobby that had potential to generate some money.” After a lot of hard work, unexpected glitches, and lessons learned, Nate sold the house to the city of Goshen, Ind., and decided to reinvest the money into another project: a 137-year-old apartment building.

Now that he’s graduated, Nate is currently living in that building, fixing it up one apartment at a time while renting out the completed spaces. With experience gained from his work on his first property, Nate is looking forward to the rest of the restoration process. “I want this property to be a good investment, but most importantly, I want to be proud to own it,” he said.

Coupling talent and faith
Nate’s attitude toward his renovations and investments has been shaped by many considerations. “I always look to incorporate my faith and values into what I do,” Nate said. “I think it’s important to never lose sight of what you believe in.” Through his work with LaCasa, a local nonprofit organization, Nate has developed an appreciation for historical housing and improving communities in need, which has also affected his choice in investments. “I’m not investing in properties just to make money; I’m investing in properties to improve them and to provide a safe, attractive place for people to live.”

All of us have been given talents from God. Whether we find them through our hobbies, like Nate, or through other activities we participate in, we can develop and use our talents in ways that serve God. Why not use your talents to provide for yourself, and help others around you? Nate encourages those who have a passion to go for it, “There is no better time to experiment with your talents and career than when you’re young!”

Erica Martin is a sophomore at DePauw University where she plans on double majoring in Communications and Conflict Studies. She worked at MMA as a communications intern during the summer of 2007.