When most students focus on acing term papers and landing internships, Lynn University student Zach Hirsch, class of 2024, is busy building his digital empire. At just 21 years old, the junior is a social influencer with over 2 million Instagram followers, podcaster, sports analyst and co-founder of Mozverse—a web development platform specializing in blockchain technology and Web3 integration.
Inside the metaverse
At Mozverse, Hirsch is focused on the future of the metaverse. As he creates fully immersive virtual worlds for his clients, he imagines how entertainment and retail industries will create elevated consumer experiences online.
"Just like we went from Web1 to Web2, Web3 is the next wave," Hirsch said. "People are becoming aware of what it can do. I predict we will see a full transition within five years."
Through hard work and vision, he's positioned Mozverse as the Web3 version of Amazon Web Services (AWS), featured in Forbes and Business Insider as a leading platform to immerse startups and tech companies in the metaverse.
Now, he wants to bring students along for the ride. In addition to cultivating a comprehensive space for NFTs, cryptocurrencies and blockchains, Hirsch has partnered with Ali Kaufman, CEO of Space of Mind, to build a virtual K-12 school within the metaverse. Hirsch's "learn to earn" platform incentivizes students to continue their education by offering prizes or the chance to earn money. Hirsch hopes low-income and marginalized students will feel compelled to graduate by creating a space where academia and careers collide.
"Today's kids are producing a great amount of quality art and the virtual world can help them earn money while in school," Hirsch said. "For students from disadvantaged backgrounds, the ability to leverage NFTs to earn an income could mean they could break the cycle of generational poverty for their families."
Hirsch's foray into tech development wasn't that different from what he hopes to create for today's students. His interest in virtual reality was sparked while playing VRChat and watching the movie Ready Player One with his brother. The budding technophile quickly applied his programming skills into the world of sports betting, earning the title of the most accurate sports handicapper in the history of college football. It also helped him earn money for college.
Leaning on Lynn
Three years ago, Hirsch enrolled in Lynn's sports management program. He has since segued to online delivery to help balance his course load with his professional endeavors, and he often applies his class work to his role at Mozverse. Hirsch also regularly leans on his professors for advice on career moves, creating achievable business plans and networking with the right contacts.
"I was going to wait to start my business, but everyone around me encouraged me to start now," he said. "It's never too early to launch your career, especially when combined with what you learn while in college."
While Hirsch continues to build his professional identity, the young entrepreneur has embraced Lynn's commitment to global stewardship, social responsibility, lifelong volunteerism and engaged activism. He was particularly inspired by Be Like Brit, a charity held near and dear by the Lynn community. Determined to make a difference, Hirsch traveled to Haiti with Space of Mind to serve the education system and build homes for underprivileged families. In a recent visit to New York, he was recognized by Les Couleurs Charity with a certificate of honor for his contributions.
"He's the real deal and he doesn't forget where he came from," said Kaufman. "He's wildly successful, yet still the same person."
With such high ambitions, there's no telling where Hirsch's journey will take him next. Whether he's recording a hit podcast with rap legend and 2023 Grammy performer Jadakiss, creating content for his active social media audience or advocating for quality education worldwide, Hirsch continues to recognize his potential and take on every opportunity and challenge that comes his way.
