Sunday, January 31, 2016

week 4 reading reflection

week 4

1. I think the biggest surprise of the reading was the creative exercise that gave a term such as "office gossip" and told us to come up with all the different uses and functions that term had. It really got my creative juices flowing and helped me think outside of the box more than I expected.

2. I was confused when I read that "technology was the driving force of innovation success" was a misconception because I thought technology was. However, after reading further I learned that customer and market are the driving forces.

3. I would ask the author what the rarest type of innovation has been because the reading included only the four most original.

4. No.

Customer Interviews No. 1

week 4

1. While Pita Pit and Relish cure Gainesville's students of late night hunger, their lines can get pretty long for impatient customers. My solution is a late night breakfast place in midtown.

2. Getting pancakes after a night out will give students the carbs their body needs to kill a hangover before it even hits in the morning. It would also be a good treat for students pulling all nighters in Library West right across the street. Also, breakfast foods are cheap which is more favorable than Pita Pit's $10 meals.

3. The questions I asked were:

"Have you ever been to Pita Pit or Relish late at night after going out or from the library?" If yes,
"What was the wait time like?"
"Do you think a late night breakfast joint would be successful in Midtown/would you eat there?"










After talking to five customers about it, I think a late night breakfast place in Midtown is a great idea and would be a success.

I was definitely nervous interviewing the customers because I was unsure of what their reactions would be. I also got rejected by a few people who were in a hurry or too shy to speak on camera. But after the first person loved the idea and gave me positive feedback, I gained much more confidence with my next interviews. 

Wednesday, January 27, 2016

Top 5 World Problems

week 4


1. Rapid climate change is a major problem the world is experiencing right now. I recently read about a lake on top of a cliff in Canada that fell off of the cliff, flooding a small village due to high temperatures. I also had to change winter break plans from snowboarding in West Virginia to Colorado because West Virginia had no snow. This harshly affects business for ski resorts and in their cities.

Problems


2. Rapid population growth has led to high levels of poverty in countries such as India, Indonesia, Bangladesh and Nigeria. One in two children in the world live in poverty and almost half the world lives on $2.50 a day. 


3. The UN states, “Globally, about 842 million people are estimated to be undernourished” and “More than 99 million children under age five are still undernourished and underweight.” Ultimately, the UN indicates that, worldwide, one in nine people remain hungry. Poor nutrition causes nearly half the deaths in children under age 5.

4. According to ILO, there were 73 million jobless people in the world in 2013. Unemployment has been escalating since people lack skills and education. Although the economy has been taking a positive turn, unemployment is still a major issue.

 
5. Education is a big problem world wide. Those living in poverty are obviously unable to have as much of a quality education as those who are not.



Solutions

1. Vaccinations are an affective solution to helping those with AIDS. Also helpful would be education on AID prevention.

2. End of course exams are a good way to ensure teachers are teaching the students what they should be learning and Peace Corp volunteers are helpful for providing education to those in poverty.It does not solve the problem but definitely helps. 

3. We must create new jobs to solve the unemployment crises and encouraging entrepreneurship does just that. We must also work on lowering the cost of education so that people can have the skills necessary to perform jobs.

4. We can help prevent this by providing incentives for large corporations to become more green. We can also place a greater emphasis on recycling. If every person tried just a tad harder to help the environment such as not littering, we could help prevent global warming.

5. We can continue to invest in safety nets that supports and promotes economic mobility such as nutrition assistance, housing assistance and health care.

I selected rapid climate change as the biggest problem because we experiencing it worse than ever right now and I have read several pieces claiming how big of an issue it is. It also affects the entire world as opposed to some of the other problems on my list that were more prominent in certain areas of the world such as rapid population growth or poverty. 

I believe the top solution I chose to help solve the problem of Aids is the most implementable because vaccinations have already been introduced and are curing millions. Also, it would be fairly easy compared to the other world problem's solutions to send educators to these highly affected areas and teach sexually transmitted disease prevention practices. 

Sunday, January 24, 2016

Week 3 Reading Reflection

Week 3

1. What stood out to me most about the reading was that the psychic risk may be the greatest risk to the well being of entrepreneurs. I forgot how tough it must be to bounce back from catastrophes. My uncle struggled immensely for years of failed restaurants but has now made his way bck financially with a food truck.

2. The metacognitive perspective for entrepreneurs struck me as confusing.

3. I would ask the author if it is true that most successful entrepreneurs have failed at some point in their business careers because if you can calculate risk and all these factors, why do most fail?  Also, which characteristic attributed to entrepreneurs do those who fail lack the most?

4. There is nothing I think the author is wrong about or disagree with him on.

Saturday, January 23, 2016

Identifying Local Opportunities

Week 3

Rally and March Set for Saturday to Protect State Parks
http://infoweb.newsbank.com.lp.hscl.ufl.edu/resources/doc/nb/news/15A791D97B0DB0E8?p=AWNB

Florida has proposed to commercialize state parks including Paynes Prairie. Opponents have organized a march for this upcoming Saturday. Their march will include keynote speakers and live music. The event is organized by the Protect Paynes Prairie Coalition along with support from several other local environmentalist groups.

The problem presented here is that Paynes Prairie is loved and enjoyed by thousands of people who would now have to pay money to visit if the proposal is approved.

Environmentalist, locals, students, and myself have a problem with this. The place we all go to distress from work or school, or go for a bike ride with our kids would feel less free if it were commercialized.

Alternatives to Marijuana Arrests
http://infoweb.newsbank.com.lp.hscl.ufl.edu/resources/doc/nb/news/15A88EA85B0000A8?p=AWNB

Alachua County officials are creating alternatives to arresting people with small amounts of marijuana. They have voted to issue civil citations rather than a court date and jail time. Another practice they've used recently is issuing warnings. Lawmakers and marijuana defenders are pushing to add onto the upcoming ballot and allow people with terminal illness to use pot.

The problem here is that a lot of money is spent on sending people to jail for the small "crime" of marijuana possession, while it is legal in other states. The lawmakers and officials need to compromise on a solution to punishing those with small marijuana amounts.

Marijuana defenders have this problem because they most likely use it and are penalized when caught. Alachua officials also have this problem because they are looking to come up with a viable solution.

Dogs Patronize Gainesville Restaurants, Never Pick Up Tab
http://infoweb.newsbank.com.lp.hscl.ufl.edu/resources/doc/nb/news/15A88EA81308DD20?p=AWNB

Dogs in restaurants is currently trending in Gainesville. Five restaurants now have permits while others have been allowing it informally. Maude's is well known for being pet friendly. However, dogs must maintain outside or in patio areas for sanitation reasons. Many restaurants who allow dogs informally can face serious fines if an inspector finds out.

The problem here is that several restaurants that allow dogs do not know permits are available and easily attainable. They may unknowingly be forced to pay a fine. Another problem can be losing the business of non-animal lovers or those allergic.

Non-animal lovers and those with animal allergies may no longer be able to attend their favorite eating spots. Restaurants that informally allow dogs also face a problem because they could be given fines if an inspector finds out.

Two More Arrests in Stabbing, One Suspect Off the Hook
http://infoweb.newsbank.com.lp.hscl.ufl.edu/resources/doc/nb/news/15A88EA7DFD26C60?p=AWNB

The Gainesville police have arrested two more people involved in the home invasion robbery that occurred last weekend. A middle aged man and women forced their way into the home after knocking on the door and the man stabbed the homeowner in the back and sliced his chin. Together they stole a cell phone, cash and prescription pills. The fourth suspect is "off the hook" because he was inadvertently involved and did not know what he was taking part in. The fourth suspect is presumable the man who was expected at his doorstep to buy drugs.

The problem here is the violence that occurred in our city. Another problem posed here is the fourth suspect that faces no consequences. He could potentially cause future harm.

The homeowners who were robbed and attacked face this problem because they are probably shaken up along with their neighbors at the drama that was forced onto them. The police also face this issue because they have to deal with figuring out what really happened that night and enforce the consequences on the right people.

UF Union Presidents: Campus Gun Bill is a Recipe for Disaster 
http://infoweb.newsbank.com.lp.hscl.ufl.edu/resources/doc/nb/news/15A7E65B509B4FF0?p=AWNB

The state legislation has plans of passing legislation to allow guns on campus while 73% of people oppose it according to the University of South Florida Poll. Opponents point out that students are under high stress and face higher risks of suicide, and allowing a gun in their hands will only lead to tragedy. Proponents seem to be the minority with the argument that it will make students feel safer. However, students are untrained while we have trained police forces all over campus.

The problem presented here is the possibility of students having guns on campus. Can you imagine a student sleeping with a gun under their bed in a dorm room? That is what would make students feel unsafe when the whole purpose of the law in the first place would be to make them feel safe.

State legislature faces this problem because it has so much opposition. Organizations such as Graduate Assistants United and United Faculty of Florida also face this problem because they must take action to keep our campus safe and oppose this proposal.






Tuesday, January 19, 2016

Very short interview No. 1

week 3

Baylor is a 35 year old entrepreneur who started "Bay Nails." I am one of her hundreds of customers. She started the business as a way to earn extra cash as a student at the University of Florida. She owns her own gel nail kit and has a wide variety of colors. The best part about the business - she comes to you! She now has a two employees who help organize booking appointments and doing customers nails. She has been saving money until she will be able to open her own store.

Me: What should my expectations be in this course?
Baylor: Expect to be frustrated. This class will probably make you want to think of a creative and new product to be introduced to society, or about what venture you want to start. It is ok if an idea does not hit you immediately. Never would I have thought I would make a business of doing peoples nails.

Me: What does it mean to be an entrepreneur?
Baylor: I think to be an entrepreneur you should be passionate about your product and/or company. You must be dedicated to what you are trying to accomplish, embrace change, and be open to new ideas.

Me: What do you think I should learn in an entrepreneurship course?
Baylor: You should learn how to think outside the box. You should also learn problem solving skills because trust me, many will arise in the beginning.

I was surprised that she told me to "expect to be frustrated," but she was completely right about me trying to think of that one amazing idea - like Snapchat or the successful ideas pitched on Shark Tank.


World's Biggest Problems

1. Rapid climate change is a major problem the world is experiencing right now. I recently read about a lake on top of a cliff in Canada that fell off of the cliff, flooding a small village due to high temperatures. I also had to change winter break plans from snowboarding in West Virginia to Colorado because West Virginia had no snow. This harshly affects business for ski resorts and in their cities.

We can help prevent this by providing incentives for large corporations to become more green. We can also place a greater emphasis on recycling. If every person tried just a tad harder to help the environment such as not littering, we could help prevent global warming.

2. Terrorism is another major issue. Within a year the world has experienced a 61% increase in terrorist attacks. The recent attacks on Paris have made us all realize what a prevalent issue terrorism is.

I think Obama is doing a good job handling the terrorist situation by sending out troops.

3. Rapid population growth has led to high levels of poverty in countries such as India, Indonesia, Bangladesh and Nigeria. One in two children in the world live in poverty and almost half the world lives on $2.50 a day. 

We can continue to invest in safety nets that supports and promotes economic mobility such as nutrition assistance, housing assistance and health care.

4. The UN states, “Globally, about 842 million people are estimated to be undernourished” and “More than 99 million children under age five are still undernourished and underweight.” Ultimately, the UN indicates that, worldwide, one in nine people remain hungry. Poor nutrition causes nearly half the deaths in children under age 5.

Mission trips are a small way to help starving parts of the world via food donations.



5. Aging is another major global issue. Fertility rates are declining and life expectancy is increasing thanks to new medicines and advancements. The proportion of people age 60 and over are expected to double between now and 2050. 

We should develop an international plan to take action on issues such as health and nutrition,  protecting elderly consumers, housing and environment, family, social welfare, income security and employment.

6. AIDS is another global crises. 60 million people have been affected worldwide, although new vaccines help continue to decrease this number.

Vaccinations are an affective solution to helping those with AIDS. Also helpful would be education on AID prevention.

7. Education is a big problem world wide. Those living in poverty are obviously unable to have as much of a quality education as those who are not.

End of course exams are a good way to ensure teachers are teaching the students what they should be learning and Peace Corp volunteers are helpful for providing education to those in poverty.

8. Today, 439 nuclear power reactors produce approximately 16 per cent of the world’s electricity. In nine countries, over 40 per cent of energy production comes from nuclear power. So much dependence on nuclear energy leads to high health and environmental costs.

We can focus more on the use of natural resources such as windmills as a source of energy.

9. Refugee is another major world problem. 10.4 million refugees last year sought asylum based on their racial background, political opinion, religious views and many other reasons. 

Although the U.S serves as an asylum for these people, it is best or our safety to enforce immigration laws. 

10. According to ILO, there were 73 million jobless people in the world in 2013. Unemployment has been escalating since people lack skills and education. Although the economy has been taking a positive turn, unemployment is still a major issue. 

We must create new jobs and encourage entrepreneurship which does just that. 





 

Sunday, January 17, 2016

week 2 reading assignment

week 2

1. A surprise for me in the reading was the distinction made between entrepreneurs and small business owners. I had always viewed these terms as the same but the text pointed out some great differences. Small business owners are more like managers and are less concerned with innovation and growth like entrepreneurs.

2. The integrative model of inputs and outputs seems to be clearly outlined and much more easy to comprehend than the dynamic states approach. This process is confusing to me.

3. I would ask the author if he was an entrepreneur and if so what venture did he start up. I would ask him this because I am curious as to how he is so knowledgable of entrepreneurs and figure he must have been one to take such an interest.

4. I do not disagree with the author about anything he said. In fact, I could not agree more with and really enjoyed reading his Myths of Entrepreneurship.

Saturday, January 16, 2016

Bug List

Week 2

1. Every time its cold during the spring in Gainesville my scooter struggles to start or needs repair and its a major inconvenience and expense that I cannot afford.

          If a scooter is not used for some time its battery will die or carburetor will need fixing. Also in the cold, sitting gas can turn to slush which damages the vehicle.

2. THERE IS NO PARKING IN GAINESVILLE. I refuse to pay $100 a month for a spot like my roommates so I bought street parking in which I usually find parking two miles away from my apartment, and therefore do not use my car.

         Gainesville knows the demand for parking is much greater than the supply and they can therefore rip off us students.

3. My roommate loves our apartment to be 74 degrees however I always change it back to 76 degrees because its a perfect temperature and saves us money on utilities.

         She has grown up in a wealthier family than mine and that is the temperature she is accustomed to.

4. My roommates do laundry about every day which is unnecessary and drives up our utility bill.

         They are used to doing laundry constantly at home where they grew up while I am not.

5. They are so over staffed at my workplace, Dough Religion, that you are lucky to get scheduled once every two weeks.

         Dough Religion is overstaffed.

6. Ladies night at Fats ends at 11 or until the bar tab runs out, and it is frustrating to arrive at 10pm and free drinks are already over.

          So many students enjoy this night that it gets packed early. I am also cheap and do not like paying for drinks.

7. Traffic is always a pain.

          I am impatient.

8. My hair clogs my shower drain and I have to apply Drain-O.

          I shed too much hair and should dispose of it elsewhere. I also have a weak ad small drain.

9. Oxford Terrace allows one parking spot per four person apartment and our spot is in between a huge column and wall/line of scooters. I have scrapped both sides of my car on multiple occasions.

          The only other option I have is to pay an insane monthly fee like my roommates for an alternative spot, or park miles away with street parking.

10. Sometimes our sorority meals are really gross so I just make rice and eggs at home.

          I can be a picky eater.

11.  My boyfriend goes to USF and it bugs me when he begs me to visit him when I do not want to. I love visiting him don't get me wrong, just not as often as he'd like me to.

          It makes me feel obligated to visit him and I feel bad/kind of guilty.

12. Technology always changes and is improved so fast that I can hardly keep up. I am so technologically challenged and find myself in the Heavener IT room too often.

           I know that I can watch a youtube tutorial video or take a class to improve my technological skills but I am too impatient and would rather an expert solve the problem quickly rather than learning to do it for myself.

13. It bugs me when I miss watching the Bachelor because I do not have recording and have to wait a week to watch the episode I missed.

           Again, another bug involving my impatience.

14. It bugs me when my older sister both steals my clothes and lies about it when I ask if she has them.

          It bugs me because when my favorite pants go missing I would at least like to be comforted and know where they are.

15. It really bugs me when I have a drink with a straw and someone asks for a sip. I feel rude saying no but I won't drink out of a straw after someone else has.

         I am slightly a germaphobe.

16. Often I am in the middle of an assignment or Netflix show and my internet will cut out.

        This bothers me because it will ruin the momentum I have while typing or taking a quiz and I have to stop and wait to reconnect with the internet.

17. It is frustrating when I host a party and say it starts at 9:00 and most people do not show up until 10:45. Being fashionably late has become too late.

        It bugs me because I am just sitting there waiting. It also makes the party end way later than I would like it to.

18. For some reason it really bothers me that my close friends I grew up went go to college and only continue to hangout with each other, majority of whom are at FSU.

        I think making new friends and connections is what college is all about.


19. It bugs me how easily my lips get chapped in cold weather.

        I always lose my chapsticks and my lips hurt because they are so dry.

20. Its extremely frustrating that our apartment is four stories up.

        It makes carrying heavy grocery items home a pain. We also dread the climb coming home from work already exhausted.


I did not find it very challenging to come up with 20 "bugs." However, after I finished writing them, I was immediately in a bad mood from listing and thinking about so many complaints. I can see how it would be hard to come up with 20 bugs because most people, including myself, tend to be more positive and look passed these bugs and at the positive things that happen throughout every day life.













Wednesday, January 13, 2016

My Entrepreneurship Story

Week 2

This passed year, my dad started his own business called Southern Heritage Irrigation. Previously he worked as a salesman for Massey and learned how to install sprinkler systems and fix irrigation problems, which inspired him to go out on his own. The friends he made there have passed him business, along with other irrigation companies in the area who cannot perform the specialized jobs my dad can. He rewards those who give him customers with gift cards, the amount depending on how big of a sale he made. Another strategy of his is "free inspections," in which he or one of his employees will do an irrigation inspection free of charge to see what the problem is. 95% of the time this leads to a sale. I'm proud of my dad for taking a risk to start a business of his own. I can definitely tell he is enjoying life much more working on his own time and overcoming new challenges than he was when he was in pharmaceutical sales. Usually when I go home he will pay me to shadow him for the day where I have learned how to work/install sprinkler timers and where to dig up necessary hoses. It is also interesting hearing his plans for the company's future and how he plans on obtaining more business and growing.
I am enrolled in this course because part of me wants more than anything to be an entrepreneur, but the other part is scared. I am also enrolled in this course because Shark Tank, my dad, and uncle inspire me to be an entrepreneur. My uncle failed miserably with his new restaurant, but got back up on his feet and is now thriving in the food truck business. Most entrepreneurs fail, however success will make it all worth it, and what I take from this course can only improve my entrepreneur mindset.









Tuesday, January 12, 2016

Introduction

Week 2

My name is Lauren Palombi and I am from Melbourne, Florida. My dad attended UF and my older sister just graduated from here, so naturally it was my life long goal to be a gator. With a personal trainer for a mom and house flipper for a dad, my family is extremely adventurous and loves the outdoors. Just last week we drove 30 hours to go snowboarding in Colorado. I am a business management major with the hopes of eventually owning my own beachside bar. I envision myself owning a bar with a backyard as the sands of Melbourne Beach. The bar will look like a tiki hut with palm fronds for a roof, corn hole games out back, and and a menu of finger foods such as wings, fries, and hotdogs. It would be awesome to mix work and play, having a business where I could surf, fish, or just play the ukulele.


Wednesday, January 6, 2016

When I think of blogs I think of people who share their feelings publicly.