So many students want to study undergraduate business. It is quickly becoming one of the most popular majors. This also makes it one of the most competitive, especially at elite schools. If you are serious about studying business, you need to put in the work. Good grades aren't enough in most undergrad business programs; you also need great extracurriculars. It’s never too early to start working on an impressive extracurricular resume, and we are here to help!
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Join a Club
Most high schools have an after-school club that is connected to business, such as entrepreneurship, mock stock market, or finance clubs. Joining is the easiest way to start showing a pattern of interest in business. If your school doesn’t have a business adjacent club, you could start one or take on a position as a treasurer in a less related club (for example, being the financial officer or on a business team in a Key Club or for the school play.)
Joining a club is a great first step for freshmen. Sticking with that club and taking on more responsibility over the years is better. Ensure you are putting in the effort, not just putting your name down on a signup sheet.
Shadow a Job
Students often do job shadows during the summer (BTW: we have an entire blog on how to plan your freshman year summer, which we also recommend you read). However, you can do a job shadow, internship, or after-school job all year round. Really, any after-school job looks great for a business major, but often, it's easier to start with a job shadow for freshmen.
Use your network. Your parents or family will likely know someone who works in a sector of business you are interested in. Ask that person if you can shadow them. Who knows, if the shadow goes well, it might be the perfect foot in the door for an internship or summer job down the line.
Start a Business
It has never been easier to start a “business” or at least a side hustle (to the side of doing well in school, of course). You want to do this right. That means making a business plan. Honestly, doing the research, planning, and modeling are probably the most impressive parts about starting a high school business. Doing this right will teach you many skills, even if your business is just selling handmade goods or babysitting. Put in the work to really learn about business and what it takes to have a successful one. We would even recommend taking an online class like Penn’s Entrepreneurship series or Michigan State’s How to Start a Business.
Do a Competition
There are several business competitions for high school students, and many are open to freshmen, such as the Blue Ocean Competition or DECA. While competing in a National or even international competition is excellent, you can also do something more local. You could participate in your school's business pitch competition if they have one. If they don’t think about starting one! Hack-a-thons, stock market games, or fundraising competitions can also be a great way to get involved and begin to explore topics in business.
The earlier you can start crafting a great extracurricular resume, the better. Just reading this blog means you are on the right track, but you need to make sure you get involved and stay involved. This is just a first step; if you are serious about studying business, you must continue growing and pushing yourself. If this all feels like a lot, we can help!
Reach out to talk to one of our dedicated counselors today!