The SOMCES hosts a focus group with entrepreneurs from various backgrounds to gain insights into relevant course content for an update entrepreneurship education curriculum at the SOM. Feedback for several topics of discussion are as follows:
#1. What skills should be learned in an entrepreneurship program? (S,E)
a. Financials, Budgeting;
b. Understanding Cash Flow Profits and Revenue;
c. The work life balance;
e. Gender-based programming;
f. *Communication skills (*To specifically address gender and cultural differences; Confidence for Public Speaking (*all genders), Presence Presentation and Effective Communication);
g. Software Development/Tech proficiency;
h. AGILE Methodology as the new business model.
j. Social media as a class by itself
#2. How should the program be structured (traditional classes, short courses, practical
a. Non-traditional setting;
b. Experiential learning;
c. Trial and error is perhaps the most valuable; Mentorship;
d. Project-based learning;
f. Hands-on -participation;
g. Include a “Shark Tank” Experience in the curriculum;
#12. What do you wish you had known or had done in college (E)?
a. Pre-requisite course called career ‘Discovery’—find your passion; Are entrepreneurs made or born?
b. Reading Business Books on Entrepreneurship;
d. Finding resources for the business startup process;
e. How to use the library for research;