From Dollar Masks to Big Dreams: A College Journey of Entrepreneurship

The streets of New York City are a classroom of their own, but nothing caught my attention quite like a kid on a corner outside Baruch College, holding a sign that read “Face Masks: $1.” It was right before the pandemic shutdown, and this young entrepreneur was practicing one of the most fundamental principles of business: supply and demand. This moment stuck with me, serving as a reminder of how business can intersect with education and life—all with a single dollar. In this article, I’ll explore the relationship between college and entrepreneurship, share insights from my journey, and offer practical resources for aspiring business owners of all backgrounds.

College vs. Business: Do They Go Hand in Hand?

When it comes to entrepreneurship, opinions often diverge on the value of college. Some of the world’s most famous entrepreneurs dropped out to pursue their dreams. Steve Jobs (Apple), Mark Zuckerberg (Facebook), left college to focus on groundbreaking ventures. On the other hand, many successful business leaders completed their degrees, like Elon Musk (Tesla, SpaceX) and Andy Yang (DoorDash). The companies and products associated with these individuals have changed industries, making this debate ever-relevant.

Education provides a foundation: the analytical skills, networks, and credibility gained from a degree can be invaluable. Conversely, entrepreneurship often demands risk-taking, adaptability, and self-teaching—skills that may not be fully developed in a classroom. Both paths come with challenges: starting a business is unpredictable, while climbing the career ladder involves its own trade-offs. Ultimately, your path should align with your strengths and aspirations.

(For more on this debate, check out Business News Daily’s insights on skipping college for entrepreneurship.)

The Benefits of a College Education and Networking

Colleges, like Baruch, are more than just academic institutions; they’re launchpads for dreams. My time studying economics shaped my understanding of the market and the role small businesses play in it. After graduating, I worked to support entrepreneurs through various organizations, and now, I’m pursuing ventures of my own.

I’ve known individuals who have obtained great positions in the finance and tech industries. Some classmates have gone on to publish books, while others have dived into real estate and investing ventures. The alumni network is a wellspring of inspiration and connections—a testament to the creativity and drive fostered in a college environment.

Are you an entrepreneur who started your own business, or are you thriving in a professional field? Share your story—what industry are you in, and how has your college experience shaped your journey?

Practical Resources and Tips for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

Whether you’re fresh out of college or years into your career, taking the leap into entrepreneurship is a big step. Here are some practical tips and resources to guide your journey:

1.???? Register Your Business: Use websites like NYC Business Express to get started.

2.???? Seek Guidance: Consulting with specialists can save you time and effort. Organizations like the NYC Small Business Development Center (SBDC), Small Business Services (SBS), or Chambers of Commerce ( NY Women's Chamber of Commerce, Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce) provide mentorship and resources to help you succeed.

Conclusion

The journey through college—and life—is much like entrepreneurship: full of ups, downs, and opportunities to innovate. Whether you’re hustling like the kid selling face masks or chasing your dreams through education and business, the key is to keep moving forward. Success comes from combining knowledge, grit, and the right resources.

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