Joe Boudreaux, general management senior from Houma, keeps busy as a part-time Nicholls student and the owner of Zack’s Frozen Yogurt with locations in Houma and Thibodaux.

Q: Why did you decide to purchase your own business?

A: “I had been manager of Zack’s since high school. I realized that I wanted to work for myself. I love my product.”

Q: Is Zack’s a family business?

A: “It is a family business. My dad saw it as an investment opportunity. Then I bought it from him. He decided that he wanted out of the business, and I had some money saved up so I bought it from him.”

Q: How do you balance schoolwork and owning two stores?

A: “School suffers a lot because work is more important to me. I have been here for six years, and the past two years I have been part-time. The hardest part is balancing a personal life.”

Q: Was owning your own business a dream of yours?

A:” I am a really goal-oriented person, so I did want to open my own business. Now, I can give people jobs. I think that it will always be a pleasurable experience.”

Q: Is it difficult balancing the stores and school?

A: “It is definitely hard. There is a big priority conflict. Most students put school first; I have to put work first. If I have to study or go to work, I have to go to work. My career takes precedence in my life.”

Q: Have you had problems so far opening a new store in Thibodaux and going to school?

A: “I only have four classes left after the two I have now, but my grades have definitely suffered because of the hurricane and trying to open a business.”

Q: Why did you decide to open a Zack’s in Thibodaux?

A: “For years and years customers have been coming and asking when I will open one in Thibodaux. Nicholls students need a place to go and hang out other than a bar.”

Q: Are you going to open other businesses after you graduate?

A: “I plan on opening one (Zack’s) in Baton Rouge and a few in New Orleans. I want to franchise out.”

Q: Will you keep your business after you graduate from Nicholls?

A: “I am getting a degree in general management to help me with my business.”

Q: Has attending classes at Nicholls helped with running your business?

A: “Yes, definitely. Some of them have helped me have a broader concept.”

Q: What is your favorite flavor?

A: “My favorite flavor is French vanilla.