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HARLOTTESVILLE, Va. - Rajan Chidambaram's entrepreneurial journey began online, leveraging social media to resell shoes. Now, with 45,000 Instagram followers and a real estate venture, he's proving himself to be an exceptional college student. At just 21 years old, Chidambaram is a fourth-year University of Virginia student who owns his own home in Charlottesville.

    Chidambaram started scaling his shoe business from a rented office unit near campus during his second year. He used the profits to invest in real estate, including land in the Shenandoah Valley. "It's been a great experience," he said, crediting social media for connecting him with people and opportunities. As his focus shifts to real estate, Chidambaram is inspiring others to follow suit.

    Chidambaram's drive is fueled by his parents' stories of overcoming adversity. His father grew up in a small Indian village without shoes until third grade, yet remains supportive of Chidambaram's endeavors. "He's been so supportive," Chidambaram said, highlighting the importance of family influence on his pursuits.