Meet the Mason Entrepreneurs
The Patriot Entrepreneur recently caught up with Kevin Bailey, President of the Mason Entrepreneurs. The Mason Entrepreneurs is a club at George Mason University seeking to increase awareness of Entrepreneurship:
How long has your club been in existence? How many members do you currently have?
The club was Officially ratified one year ago. We have about 15 active members but we are looking to get a lot more in the coming semesters.
What kinds of members are in your club? Has anyone started a company?
There are three types of members that tend to gravitate to this club:
- We have members who have already started a company. For the majority of these members it is a part time thing, and they are looking to get into something bigger after they graduate.
- We have members with the great idea who just does not think they are ready to make their idea come to life yet. These members are great because if they share their ideas in confidence, the other members of the club can help them develop their business plan.
- The third type of member is someone who is not sure what they want to do but all they know is that they want to be their own boss.
What can George Mason University do to help more students become entrepreneurs?
We would like GMU to offer more courses on the topic of entrepreneurship for the students. I heard a story a while ago about Harvard being forced to create a entrepreneurship Curriculum because too many of their students were dropping out early to start their own business. My experience as a business major in the School of Management is that they overlook the path of entrepreneurship and only seem to teach to people going into the corporate world.
Tell us about the Young Entrepreneurs Academy?
The YEA Summit will take place in the spring of 2007 this year. Students will participate in lectures and seminars on what it takes to start and run a successful business. Guest speakers will discuss how to transform a start-up venture into a million dollar company. Topics will include how to start and run a successful technology company, retail operation, marketing, public relations, banking relationships, and finance. Students can learn more about the YEA Summit by visiting the School of Management website: http://som.gmu.edu
What advice would you offer aspiring Entrepreneurs?
Networking is the key. The more you surround your self with successful people the more you tend to gravitate to their success. and don't be afraid of failing especially at first.
When does your club meet next? Is it open to all students?
It is open to all students and alumi. Our next official meeting will be next semester at the first Tuesday of the month at 7:30, but that is subject to change.
Please contact Kevin Bailey for more information: jbailey3@gmu.edu