When I first enrolled in Belleville CEO, I expected to simply learn the basics of business: how to found a business, how to run a business, etc. However, as the semester progressed, I developed new ways of thinking about the secrets and nuances of the business world. Looking back, Belleville CEO has had both challenges and growth. This class has taught me the values of respect, accountability, determination, growth, teamwork, and faith. I’ve also grown to learn that I can work well enough with others to succeed or thrive in a business-like environment. Throughout the semester I’ve learned that I am able to manage money much better, as I now understand how money flows and why it’s spent the way it is. I also developed a skill of teamwork, learning through all of the group activities how to collaborate with others well. I would say, though, that I’m most proud of my improvement in communication. Though I struggle to talk in front of the bigger crowds and groups of people, I can communicate well one-on-one or in smaller groups. Belleville CEO also poses a lot of challenges meant to be overcome and learned from. I learned that time, money, and teamwork are all limited. Don’t push off an assignment or a project until the last day or last minute because then it will not be as complete or well done as you want it. Through these challenges and lessons, I learned to adjust prices for more income while not losing too many sales. Looking back on the year, much was accomplished. I am proud that we, as a class, successfully ran the trivia night; Also, that I launched Mama Judy’s and I hope to sell well at the trade show, which will be an even bigger accomplishment that I am proud of. Overall, I have a whole new appreciation for just how much thought, time, work, and money go into creating and running a successful business. I’ve also learned that it’s okay to make mistakes, but it’s not okay to quit. You will encounter problems, and you need to find a way to power through them. And that’s what the program has taught me to do.
