The Entrepreneurial Management (EM) program has been a transformative experience for me. I chose this program because I know it would provide invaluable support for my business venture. The EM program equips students with the skills needed to manage their businesses, guiding us from conceptualizing an idea to running an operation. It also teaches us how to manage employees both inside and outside of the organization.

As someone who has struggled with low self-esteem, I hoped that the program would help boost my confidence. The EM program has indeed made me feel more capable by helping me develop creative and critical thinking skills. It has provided me with practical knowledge and skills essential for successfully establishing and managing a business. Applying the knowledge gained from various courses, we also benefit from the guidance of our business mentors. It is a privilege to gain such experience while still in college, as this will be an asset after graduation.

Our journey isn’t one we undertake blindly; our professors and business mentors provide constructive advice throughout the process, from our first year until graduation. Before enrolling in EM, I had no clear business idea in mind. I expected the course to be challenging, and it certainly has been, but these experiences have helped me grow both personally and as an entrepreneur. From planning a business to operating one, the journey has been filled with challenges, but it has been worth it. As Doc Eli often says, “As long as you’re passionate and work hard, you can make it.” This sentiment has carried me through the ups and downs.

Overall, I have thoroughly enjoyed studying and applying my learning in the New Business Ventures (NBV) course. I did not expect to have so much fun on my entrepreneurial journey in EM, but I did. It’s crucial to be passionate about what you’re doing because if not, you might end up shifting to a different business and starting over. It’s also vital to enjoy what you do because running a business for the sake of graduating won’t bring fulfillment. Think of it as an investment in your future.

The New Business Ventures (NBV) course has been a highlight of my EM experience. I found joy in the process of applying theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios, turning concepts into actionable plans. This approach made the entrepreneurial journey not just educational but also enjoyable. It taught me the importance of passion in business. Without a genuine interest and love for what you do, there’s a risk of becoming disengaged or shifting focus, which can hinder success.

For those considering starting their own business, ensure that you genuinely want to pursue EM and the venture you’re planning. It’s challenging if you keep changing concepts, though exploring different paths is fine. If you pursue EM, don’t pressure yourself too much; learn to have fun. Most importantly, maximize your sessions with your business and life mentors. They are invaluable resources which will support you throughout your entrepreneurial journey and help you build character.