I'm a college student with an idea..feedback apreciated!

by pdom
63 replies
Since I want to start a business so i can drop out of college and live the life I want to live (4hww inspired ambition) what would you say if I made a guide to show exactly how to do that? business creation, utilizing the college network, can't get any niche than that right? what're your thoughts? all feedback/criticism appreciated!


Thanks
Patrick
#apreciated #college #ideafeedback #student
  • Profile picture of the author DanielleLynnCopy
    Hi Patrick,

    A college education is a sad thing to lose... I vote for sticking it out. But, if you still want to go down that path: Be warned- the college scene is not known for its generous spending (unless it's on beer and what not)

    I like your out of the box thinking though when it comes to documenting and showing your business creation process... what business are you proposing to create curiously?

    -Danielle
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    • Profile picture of the author mikeroosa
      Stay in college and work on the business while you're in college.
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      • Profile picture of the author pdom
        lol yeah, i probably will, but i'm going to NYU and I just want to be able to pay this off without selling knives for the rest of my life. I'm a public health major and it's definitely not gonna pay for my student loan. I find the problem with most aspiring college entrepreneurs is that they don't test out the market and attempt to create the demand, they just run with an idea that they think will work. So maybe niche-ing it down to running tests for market potential, strictly for online businesses (probably tech) and not just telling people to "like" my facebook business page (which I've been guilty of) lol.

        I'm also trying to start a clothing line and i'm planning on marketing mostly offline to the NYU community, and creating local buzz. I may just run with this idea though. I'm gonna ask for some feedback from some colleagues (all mostly social entrepreneurs) and check how receptive they are to my ideas.

        What do you guys think? Is my thinking flawed, or am I missing something? Do I need to go deeper?

        Thanks again!

        Cheers,
        Patrick
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        • Profile picture of the author Joyful Thiek
          Originally Posted by pdom View Post

          lol yeah, i probably will, but i'm going to NYU and I just want to be able to pay this off without selling knives for the rest of my life. I'm a public health major and it's definitely not gonna pay for my student loan. I find the problem with most aspiring college entrepreneurs is that they don't test out the market and attempt to create the demand, they just run with an idea that they think will work. So maybe niche-ing it down to running tests for market potential, strictly for online businesses (probably tech) and not just telling people to "like" my facebook business page (which I've been guilty of) lol.

          I'm also trying to start a clothing line and i'm planning on marketing mostly offline to the NYU community, and creating local buzz. I may just run with this idea though. I'm gonna ask for some feedback from some colleagues (all mostly social entrepreneurs) and check how receptive they are to my ideas.

          What do you guys think? Is my thinking flawed, or am I missing something? Do I need to go deeper?

          Thanks again!

          Cheers,
          Patrick
          Sounds like a plan. You clearly seem to know what you're doing. Well maybe going with it isn't such a bad idea. Run the idea by your colleagues and listen to what they have to say.

          The truth is no one here or anywhere else really know what you have in mind. They'll give you all kinds of advice. But in the end, it all comes down to you - what would be your advice? And in the end, if it's really what you want, you'll stick to it even if everyone advises you otherwise.

          My suggestion - if it seems doable, do it. You're not dropping out just yet anyway. If it's a mistake, you'll learn from it. If it's a success, scale it up; then drop out of college if you must.

          Sure, college education is great and all. But it's useless if your heart is set on something else. I am an engineer working for a reputed firm, graduated from a reputed institute. I gave my resignation 17 days ago. I'll be doing IM full-time now. My engineering education? A complete waste! Again, that's just me. I'll never advise anyone to drop out of college, not even Bill Gates.

          Good luck!
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        • Profile picture of the author fred67
          Originally Posted by pdom View Post

          lol yeah, I may just run with this idea though. I'm gonna ask for some feedback from some colleagues (all mostly social entrepreneurs) and check how receptive they are to my ideas.

          What do you guys think?
          I think asking colleagues who are all "Social Entrepreneurs" means you've just answered your own question there.
          They won't know what the hell you're talking about :confused:

          Good luck though if you do run with it - you sound like a bit of a Maverick and that's what the World needs right now
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      • Originally Posted by mikeroosa View Post

        Stay in college and work on the business while you're in college.
        Top advice. Stick it out mate. You need a backup plan and since you have already gone to the effort to start studying it would be a real waste to drop out. Work on your business in your free time, and hopefully it will take off, but if it doesn't, at least you will have other options. Just my thoughts...
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    • Profile picture of the author Matthew Shane Roe
      Originally Posted by DanielleLynnCopy View Post

      Hi Patrick,

      A college education is a sad thing to lose... I vote for sticking it out. But, if you still want to go down that path: Be warned- the college scene is not known for its generous spending (unless it's on beer and what not)

      I like your out of the box thinking though when it comes to documenting and showing your business creation process... what business are you proposing to create curiously?

      -Danielle

      Write a guide on how to throw the best college parties?
      Write a guide on how to market those parties so the ones throwing them can actually profit (advertising and marketing.. Setting up a facebook page or twitter page for updates, etc..)

      Could be a hit for college students... Maybe... lol
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      • Profile picture of the author DanielleLynnCopy
        Originally Posted by Skid_Roe View Post

        Write a guide on how to throw the best college parties?
        Write a guide on how to market those parties so the ones throwing them can actually profit (advertising and marketing.. Setting up a facebook page or twitter page for updates, etc..)

        Could be a hit for college students... Maybe... lol
        Lol I had a visual of some college guys in a party scene stop and think to themselves "hmmm. maybe I can profit by selling some ping pong balls at Bill's next party...")

        Unfortunately though, many of those college students aren't thinking of profits. Now, if you had a guide on how to get their degree without ever setting foot in class... or offered a "Party" BA, you might get some takers
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  • Profile picture of the author joymarino
    I think that dropping out of school is a personal choice. Consider carefully what the effect is on your future. Before doing that, see what options are out there in the career path you want (medical, legal, etc.) and see how you can combine your college education with a business of your own. You may never need that college degree, but you will learn so much in college AND have a huge, dynamic network of like-minded individuals who can help you grow whatever you pursue in the future. Best of luck to you in whatever YOU choose!
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    • Profile picture of the author Chris Sorrell
      Shoot for the stars and get out of the overblown employee training system otherwise known as formal education while you can. It blunts your creativity and kills your ambition. Just look around you at people with jobs who went down that route. Do they look rich? Do they look happy? Hmmm.

      This world doesn't need any more morons in pointless jobs preaching to other morons about pointless jobs. Walk into the college admin office and tell them you're leaving that life ruining place and you're gonna become a millionaire. Then close the door on your way out and get to work. Good luck.
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      • Profile picture of the author Kay King
        What a limited mindset.

        I agree with the OP's idea of creating income to help pay for tuition. I think student loans will be a real crisis in years to come for many who are in school today. I don't think leaving school is the answer to "living the life I want". School should be preparation for the life you want to live.

        But - I don't see how you can tell someone how to do something you've never done. "Watch me while I do this" isn't a valid way to go about it as most people like to learn from someone with real life experience on a topic.

        I do think you could create income online in your spare time to help subsidize costs of tuition - but would advise you to follow more standard IM methods of creating an income.

        I would never advise someone to leave school - but I would say to maximize your schooling. Some areas of public health pay more than others so position yourself wisely in the classes you take.
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  • Profile picture of the author Joyful Thiek
    If you haven't actually lived that life, how can you make a guide on it? I'm sorry I just DON'T get it. I don't want to sound discouraging, but I think that's a little unrealistic. Sure if you have a great deal of knowledge on the matter, maybe you could write a great deal on it. But there'll always be something missing - experience - and your readers will find that out. Why don't you try implementing what you're going to write about first; if it's a success, create the guide. But oh well, that's just me.

    Good luck!
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    • Profile picture of the author John Romaine
      Originally Posted by AllFans View Post

      If you haven't actually lived that life, how can you make a guide on it?
      Well said.

      Much like those that start threads begging for ideas on how to make money, and yet they have several signature links that read "Make $10,000 a month blogging, let me show you how"
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  • I would stay in school. In case it doesnt work out that you "live the life." You want to have a plan B. You can do school and build a business. Reading that book has also changed the way I live. You need to save up money, and have money to fall back on for sure. Also HAVE A PLAN and a MENTOR, to help you. You will quickly find out that having a lot of extra time on your hands, can be a double edged sword. Good luck!
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  • Profile picture of the author shuvo
    Hey man I am also an undergraduate student and making a good money for my living besides my studies.So concentrate more on your studies and this will help you to make more money in future.
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  • Profile picture of the author theory expert
    Banned
    if I was you I would go to Tim Ferris blog and say, "Tim I read your 4hww book and it inspired me to drop out of college. Now I am thinking of starting this business(describe business idea), what do you think?"

    see what comments you receive then,lol.

    I think you should look into hosting parties, &, doing CPA on campus. Just an opinion. You can try it. I would if I was young in college.

    Good LUck

    P.S. Stay in school unless you are certain college either isn't for you,(hence:your grades suck), you are 100% certain your plan is detailed, viable, and, doable,(or, you can make a fulltime income without college in shark infested NYC).
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  • Profile picture of the author tsuccess
    It's a good idea if you ask me. Especially if you're making it so that anyone can follow it no matter which niche they choose to get in.
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    • Profile picture of the author MandoThrasher
      The fact that you're considering dropping out of college is the very reason you need to stay in college. You haven't had enough life experiences yet to know what the heck you're doing. You made a 4 year commitment to school, now you're bailing out. Who's to say you won't bail on this new idea if it doesn't go well? Then where will that leave you?

      If you quit college, you can bet at some point you will regret it. Take it from me. My wife and I both went back to college in our 30's after being too smart for our own good and thinking we knew better. All it takes it a few crappy jobs and you'll be at the registrar begging to get back in. If Mom and Dad are picking up the tab now, stay in there. It's much harder to go back later when Mom and Dad aren't paying the bills for you.

      Work your business while you're in there. Figure out what works. Have a Plan B, Plan C, Plan D. You can always fall back on your education. If your major sucks, then switch majors.

      Even if you're struggling with grades. Follow through with it. Guess what they call a medical student that barely passed all his classes? A doctor!

      Of course, you're going to do what you want because we really only learn from our mistakes. Taking some guy's random advice on a forum will never be of any value if you never know what not taking it cost you.
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  • Profile picture of the author Dash Evra
    I am currently in college as well and doing internet marketing. I had the "dropping out" idea too on my freshman year to pursue internet marketing. But somewhere along the line, I got a reality check. Internet marketing is NOT easy. Unless you've been making a full time income for over 2 years, make college your priority, if possible.

    Staying in college is probably the best decision I've made. In fact, I've used so many things I learned there that helped me with internet marketing.

    Anyway, about your idea... I don't get it. You want to write a guide on how to start a business without a college education, right? How are you going to do that without accomplishing what you're teaching?? This whole thing doesn't make any sense to me...Stay in college bro
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  • Profile picture of the author DanielleLynnCopy
    I know you guys are ragging on him for wanting to document his process - but honestly, I still think it's a good idea (or at least a good "part of an idea")

    Now... he most likely won't make money on it right away, but if he does something novel- and it works - he could use it as proof to back up an actual business model he develops later.

    Okay okay, that's a lot of "if"s but I like rooting for the underdog.

    If you're hurting for cash though OP, they're right. It's probably not the way to go =/ and dropping out of college is an even worse plan. Having a degree opens many doors.
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  • Profile picture of the author buckeyes09
    Stay in school, but take classes to help your IM career. Unless you really like German, for example.
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    Christian

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  • Profile picture of the author Fazal Mayar
    Stick it out...or you will regret. im in the exact same situation. Get your degree whatever happens! When you are gonna hit the 30's , sometimes your im business might not work and you will have a hard time finding a goob job without a degree!
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  • Profile picture of the author Kurt Abel
    You've already got the debt from the loans, you might as well get the diploma out of the deal. Stick it out and work on your business while you are finishing school. Make it your goal that you don't have to find a real job after college.
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  • Profile picture of the author pdom
    Thanks everyone. I really appreciate the feedback. It's really opened my eyes to things that I have yet to consider. Obviously though I'm not just going to drop out and wander around finding ideas. I just know the corporate world and working for someone else just isn't for me. i'll probably just keep my eyes open to what is needed around the student groups (since they're funded by NYU, they have a budget) and it can be a little pet project. well..that's an example, but yeah, keeping my eyes open

    Patrick
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    • Profile picture of the author Kay King
      Good choice - while you are keeping your eyes open, remember to keep an eye out for online opportunities in your chosen field of study.

      A good education in public health could be a great online asset if you find the right hook or angle.
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      One secret to happiness is to let every situation be
      what it is instead of what you think it should be.
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      • Profile picture of the author pdom
        while public health is something i like. i'm not too interested in starting something in regards to public health. I may just switch majors to the Gallatin individualized program and take classes that I enjoy/are useful to me. Plus, Gallatin has a huge budding social entrepreneurship community, so i'm sure i could take on a few projects for internet marketing and get some experience under my belt Cheers!


        Patrick
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        • Profile picture of the author Canuckystan
          You may not like working for someone else, but it is a necessary evil in my view for several years if you want to run your own business. Where else are you going to get the skills and knowledge to run a business that supports you well?

          Those that quit college and have no work experience and become highly successful are so few it's not even worth talking about.

          Successful business people have built specialized skills over years working for others and building contacts before hanging their own shingle.

          Oh sure there are the few exceptions, but they prove the rule in this case.
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        • Profile picture of the author fusionfitnesstv
          I can't reply as a successful IM as I am currently going through all the learning pains, and have yet to earn my first $, but as far as college goes and what you should do well......college is not for everyone. I dropped out myself way back in 1980 and have yet to regret it. I actually ended up going back for 1 1/2 years at NYU for film and television (in 1983). At least I re-entered that world with SOME idea of what I was even doing there. Like you, I couldn't accept the life of groveling at college (and handing over BIG amounts of money to them) for a diploma that "they" declare" I have earned by "their" standards so I could then go work for someone else again. I really had NO IDEA what I was doing there. I went because everyone said that is what you are supposed to do.
          Having said that though I think college is a MUST for certain professions. Medical, dentistry, law etc....not so much for some other professions though. Forcing EVERYONE into the college mold would be like me (as a fitness trainer) trying to force everyone into a one size fits all sort of program, and that's a recipe for disaster more often than not. I know if I had stayed at that first college I would have felt like putting a gun in my mouth and blowing my brains out. I HAD to get out of there!
          I am now stepping off my self appointed soapbox......back to reality. I think you need to get a much clearer concept of what it is you want to present and do. There has been some great advice in the replies to your questions. Stay in school for now and work on your IM on the side. Don't throw the baby out with the bathwater quite yet. Keep asking yourself questions, and listen for those very first answers that pop into your head before you can even stop them. That may tell you a lot about what direction you REALLY desire to go in.
          Ok...enough blabbing from me. Believe it or not it's also my FIRST post on this board!!!

          Robert
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        • Profile picture of the author Henry White
          Originally Posted by pdom View Post

          while public health is something i like. i'm not too interested in starting something in regards to public health. I may just switch majors to the Gallatin individualized program and take classes that I enjoy/are useful to me. Plus, Gallatin has a huge budding social entrepreneurship community, so i'm sure i could take on a few projects for internet marketing and get some experience under my belt Cheers!


          Patrick
          Gallatin might be a good choice. You should also investigate Stern.
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          • Profile picture of the author BenoitT
            No matter what you choice to do, make a plan and STICK to your plan like hell. Adjust but don't leave it. Believing in yourself is going to be your biggest issue.
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          • Profile picture of the author pdom
            Originally Posted by hwhite View Post

            Gallatin might be a good choice. You should also investigate Stern.
            from who i've talked to (entrepreneurs who are currently in stern, mostly majoring in finance and all that jazz) they say it sucks for entrepreneurship because stern is specifically geared towards those who want to work for a company (many i've talked to feel this way) it's a little limiting in choices, although there are great, GREAT entrepreneurship classes. It's actually NYC Start-Up week and there's an NYU entrepreneur mingle in about an hour that I'm going to, gonna see a bunch of my friends and talk about what we all love talking about Peaceee

            Cheers,
            Patrick
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            • Profile picture of the author Henry White
              Originally Posted by pdom View Post

              from who i've talked to (entrepreneurs who are currently in stern, mostly majoring in finance and all that jazz) they say it sucks for entrepreneurship because stern is specifically geared towards those who want to work for a company (many i've talked to feel this way) it's a little limiting in choices, although there are great, GREAT entrepreneurship classes. It's actually NYC Start-Up week and there's an NYU entrepreneur mingle in about an hour that I'm going to, gonna see a bunch of my friends and talk about what we all love talking about Peaceee

              Cheers,
              Patrick
              At the bachelor's level? I know Stern used to be second only to Harvard in the number of MBAs earning 7-figures within 5 years on Wall Street.

              We entreprenuers aren't stuck on stupid about "either/or" but naturally gravitate toward "both, damn it!"
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  • Profile picture of the author seasoned
    Originally Posted by pdom View Post

    Since I want to start a business so i can drop out of college and live the life I want to live (4hww inspired ambition) what would you say if I made a guide to show exactly how to do that? business creation, utilizing the college network, can't get any niche than that right? what're your thoughts? all feedback/criticism appreciated!


    Thanks
    Patrick
    You obviously can't show EXACTLY how to do it. HECK, I know how MANY, including bill gates, stephen wozniak, steven jobs, ross perot, warren buffett etc... got to where they are. Frankly, it doesn't help much. and out of all those, only the two stevens didn't luck out or get forced into it. Ross perot was actually FORCED to do what he did!

    There are LOTS of books, etc... promising to show you EXACTLY how to do it. I read a couple of those too.

    Steve
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  • Profile picture of the author pdom
    canuckystan - unless i work for a start up and work closely with the owners, I can't see why working for someone would legitimately help me start something. i'm not saying it's bad, but it takes a completely different skill set to own and run a business than to work for one. and i'm afraid i'll get comfortable with the paycheck, which i know is also very susceptible for most people. I'd much rather fail early and often, while in college and while i'm still young, than work first and regret not doing it later. thanks for your input though, i really do appreciate it

    seasoned - yeah aha i'm just spitting things out there, i see your points, that idea is also way too vague and not specialized. i'm still figuring out where I want to specialize, but perhaps product launches.

    so yeah, i'm just gonna tag along my friends product launch/marketing campaign, and see what comes out of it, whether or not i enjoy that work and it's something that I can be super good at.
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    • Profile picture of the author fusionfitnesstv
      Originally Posted by pdom View Post

      canuckystan - unless i work for a start up and work closely with the owners, I can't see why working for someone would legitimately help me start something. i'm not saying it's bad, but it takes a completely different skill set to own and run a business than to work for one. and i'm afraid i'll get comfortable with the paycheck, which i know is also very susceptible for most people. I'd much rather fail early and often, while in college and while i'm still young, than work first and regret not doing it later. thanks for your input though, i really do appreciate it

      seasoned - yeah aha i'm just spitting things out there, i see your points, that idea is also way too vague and not specialized. i'm still figuring out where I want to specialize, but perhaps product launches.

      so yeah, i'm just gonna tag along my friends product launch/marketing campaign, and see what comes out of it, whether or not i enjoy that work
      and it's something that I can be super good at.

      I want to wish you best of luck. You sound like you have at least a starting point. More than I can say for many.

      Robert
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    • Profile picture of the author Canuckystan
      Here's the thing. What IS entrepreneurship? Having run my own business for 7 years I can tell you it is:

      - Sales and Marketing
      - Accounting and Bookkeeping
      - Management of People
      - Corporate Planning
      - Product Development and Finance

      You are responsible for all the above. If you NEVER work for anyone in any of the above categories, you are really starting from ZERO and you will have an uphill battle. That is why most businesses fail within a few years, because the owner is always playing catch up in each area, which are pretty universal to all businesses.

      A lot of would-be entrepreneurs think of "working for themselves" and forget the day-to-day grind of work that is what's really required for success.

      As others have said, get the College education. I say work in the private sector and get some skills because working for yourself is hard work and you want as much of a headstart as you can.



      Originally Posted by pdom View Post

      canuckystan - unless i work for a start up and work closely with the owners, I can't see why working for someone would legitimately help me start something. i'm not saying it's bad, but it takes a completely different skill set to own and run a business than to work for one. and i'm afraid i'll get comfortable with the paycheck, which i know is also very susceptible for most people. I'd much rather fail early and often, while in college and while i'm still young, than work first and regret not doing it later. thanks for your input though, i really do appreciate it

      seasoned - yeah aha i'm just spitting things out there, i see your points, that idea is also way too vague and not specialized. i'm still figuring out where I want to specialize, but perhaps product launches.

      so yeah, i'm just gonna tag along my friends product launch/marketing campaign, and see what comes out of it, whether or not i enjoy that work and it's something that I can be super good at.
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  • Profile picture of the author Roey Pimentel
    Dear Patrick,

    People always talk about a "College Education" but seem to forget to mention the "College Experience." For some, it is the experience of life during those college years that is more valuable than the education.

    Although it can be true that you may not "need" a college education to be successful later in life, you will be depriving yourself of the experience.

    Fast-Forward your life twenty years. You are now an amazingly successful business man. You interact and socialize with your peers. The subject comes up about their college days - frats and football, beer, professors they loved/disliked, campus events, girls, spring break, etc.

    How will you feel? Will you feel like you have nothing to add to the conversation? Will you feel awkward and left out? You may be fine with this, or it may bug you. This is your decision, and your life. I am just suggesting you think it through. Life changes many times over between now and old age. Your future may not unfold as you imagine it will today. But a college education is yours to keep.
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    • Profile picture of the author Rob Howard
      Originally Posted by Roey Pimentel View Post


      How will you feel? Will you feel like you have nothing to add to the conversation? Will you feel awkward and left out? You may be fine with this, or it may bug you. This is your decision, and your life. I am just suggesting you think it through. Life changes many times over between now and old age. Your future may not unfold as you imagine it will today. But a college education is yours to keep.
      Man, if I went to college just so I can have conversation topics 10 or 20 years down the road, I would have probably shot myself in the face many times. I owe 70,000 bucks because of that 3 year time drain, employee centered mindset trainer. I would have been so much better off without it.

      Rob
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  • Profile picture of the author rachelberry007
    No matter what, stay in the college. And if you can manage, work on the idea concurrently
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  • Profile picture of the author Evren
    Please stay in college and finish your education. You never know when that degree will come in handy...
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  • Profile picture of the author chasnsx
    PDOM: If you are really interested in this business, then stay in school and change your major to a double major in marketing and psychology, with an emphasis on buyer psychology. Take a few classes in accounting and small business management while you are at it. You will learn what you need to know a lot faster in the classroom than you will by clicking a mouse, or by being ripped off by customers out in the real world.

    The simple fact and sad truth is, EVERYBODY wants to get rich on the web by teaching other people how to get rich on the web.

    In order to have any credibility, you have to actually get rich on the web first, preferably by some method other than teaching others how to get rich on the web.

    If you really want to drop out of school and try this, go ahead. But be warned -- you are going to be broke for a long time before you come up with something that generates actual income. We know this because we have all been there.
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  • Profile picture of the author pizzatherapy
    Re-read some of the responses, here.

    Having your own business and going to college are not mutually exclusive. You can certainly do both while you are attending college.

    Dropping out of school will set a very bad precedent for your own life's path. You obviously made a commitment when you enrolled in college...and that commitment was to finish.

    You didn't take a class or 2, you decided to go into college..and complete it.

    Now you are being distracted by something else that you think will be better for you.

    My advice: bite the bullet and fulfill your original commitment to complete college.

    A college degree is something that cannot be taken away from you. Plus the relationships and connections you make with people will be with you your entire life.

    IMHO.

    And the best advice you got is from MandoThrasher:

    The fact that you're considering dropping out of college is the very reason you need to stay in college.
    In the end, though, you will decide to do whatever it is what you want to do...But I think you found some very valauble advice right here....
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    • Profile picture of the author Rob Howard
      Originally Posted by pizzatherapy View Post

      Having your own business and going to college are not mutually exclusive. You can certainly do both while you are attending college.
      Best of luck with that. I usually spent 40 to 60 hours a week with homework, practice (I was a music student), working on campus, and then I still would like a social life.

      Yeah - it's really REALLY difficult to make time when you're spending 10k to 30k a year on something and that also takes up 60 hours of your life.

      Originally Posted by pizzatherapy View Post

      Dropping out of school will set a very bad precedent for your own life's path. You obviously made a commitment when you enrolled in college...and that commitment was to finish.

      You didn't take a class or 2, you decided to go into college..and complete it.
      How so?

      Perhaps his parents basically forced him. That was my situation. You know the pressure you feel at 18 from just about everyone to make a 10k to 30k a year buying decision?

      If you don't do it - you're a bum, lazy, disappointment. And at 18, a lot of kids don't have the screw you, "I don't care what you think about me" to get through it. And if you do have that attitude, you are a rebellious ingrate.

      Also, last I checked, you can't just "test college" out. Most want you to sign up full time and if don't sign up full time, forget getting financial help.

      Also, if you decide to put it off a few years to try it out later, same situation - little college financial help.

      Originally Posted by pizzatherapy View Post


      Now you are being distracted by something else that you think will be better for you.

      My advice: bite the bullet and fulfill your original commitment to complete college.
      And may in fact be better for him. I know it was better for me.

      And yes - I'm almost 30 Years old and I don't regret for a second dropping out of school.

      I know quite a few "young and successful" college grad's who are now corporate slaves. I make 3 times more than they do and am currently sitting on my butt in my boxers typing this message.

      Funny that they come to me from time to time and ask how they can do the same - but yet they can't ever get it done because they utterly depend on someone telling them what to do - when to do it.

      OP - don't let anyone tell you what you can or can't do. If college is the thing for you - then by all means do it. If it will make you happy, and it will truly help you, then do it.

      If it makes you miserable, if you are doing it for others instead of yourself, and if you truly believe quitting and going full steam into your own business - the by God - do it and hold your head up proud.

      Don't let anyone tell you what you can or can't do. Period.

      Rob
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      • Profile picture of the author JBrooks
        Originally Posted by ccmusicman View Post

        Best of luck with that. I usually spent 40 to 60 hours a week with homework, practice (I was a music student), working on campus, and then I still would like a social life.

        Yeah - it's really REALLY difficult to make time when you're spending 10k to 30k a year on something and that also takes up 60 hours of your life.

        How so?

        Perhaps his parents basically forced him. That was my situation. You know the pressure you feel at 18 from just about everyone to make a 10k to 30k a year buying decision?

        If you don't do it - you're a bum, lazy, disappointment. And at 18, a lot of kids don't have the screw you, "I don't care what you think about me" to get through it. And if you do have that attitude, you are a rebellious ingrate.

        Also, last I checked, you can't just "test college" out. Most want you to sign up full time and if don't sign up full time, forget getting financial help.

        Also, if you decide to put it off a few years to try it out later, same situation - little college financial help.

        And may in fact be better for him. I know it was better for me.

        And yes - I'm almost 30 Years old and I don't regret for a second dropping out of school.

        I know quite a few "young and successful" college grad's who are now corporate slaves. I make 3 times more than they do and am currently sitting on my butt in my boxers typing this message.

        Funny that they come to me from time to time and ask how they can do the same - but yet they can't ever get it done because they utterly depend on someone telling them what to do - when to do it.

        OP - don't let anyone tell you what you can or can't do. If college is the thing for you - then by all means do it. If it will make you happy, and it will truly help you, then do it.

        If it makes you miserable, if you are doing it for others instead of yourself, and if you truly believe quitting and going full steam into your own business - the by God - do it and hold your head up proud.

        Don't let anyone tell you what you can or can't do. Period.

        Rob
        mate your example is a little extreme and perhaps why you have a little pent up hostility towards the idea. 70K for an education is pretty much double the avg.

        its not just about the finances. its about getting an education, getting experience, meeting new people and having fun.
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  • Profile picture of the author Ladybug
    I say stay in school. (I wish I had) You have an entire life in front of you to live your dreams.
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  • Profile picture of the author brandon2664
    Stay in school if you want to have a mediocre job, pay off student loans till your 30, and get your boss rich.

    I suggest getting a job and working on your own business in the meantime.
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  • Profile picture of the author Mike Grant
    FWIW, I make more money now than I'd make in several years if I was to use my degree. I also work about the same amount of hours, the only difference is I love what I do now and I don't have to be told whether or not I can take a day off, when I have to take a lunch, etc.

    Only you know yourself and your work ethic. If you're willing to put in the time to educate yourself and put your learnings into action, I think you'll be just fine.
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    • Profile picture of the author ladywriter
      You leave college, you leave money on the table. Colleges are such great places for ideas and interaction that it would be enormous folly to walk away. To this day I miss the college experience, there is nothing like it. You'll have a hard time finding such an easy fertile ground IMO.

      I think it's very smart of you to think about being more than a brick in the wall though. I do like your idea, it has worked for many people who do 'experiment' type blogs--including the man who started with a paperclip and got a house, and the woman who did all of Julia Child's recipes.
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      • Profile picture of the author pdom
        paulie - Thanks! oh absolutely, I'm not going to drop out of college THEN start a business. I just want to start something and say I did it, and freakin succeed. Thats all
        Rose - omg I loved julie & julia, such a great movie cuz I love blogs and the potential they have. and i did hear about the paper clip to house from my days at vector. it's so funny that I know both of those references! I agree that college is the place to mess up, and I'm definitely utilizing the 55k/year tuition, I'm sucking everything out of NYU I can


        Patrick
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        • Profile picture of the author EmailGuy
          Originally Posted by pdom View Post

          paulie - Thanks! oh absolutely, I'm not going to drop out of college THEN start a business. I just want to start something and say I did it, and freakin succeed. Thats all

          Patrick
          That's good choice. First you succeed with what you did and then go and tell others so that they can benefit from your experience.
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        • Profile picture of the author paulie888
          Originally Posted by pdom View Post

          paulie - Thanks! oh absolutely, I'm not going to drop out of college THEN start a business. I just want to start something and say I did it, and freakin succeed. Thats all


          Patrick
          Patrick, I'm glad to hear this. I'm not referring to just starting a business though, as any average person can start an internet business within the space of just a few weeks. What I'm really referring to is starting an internet business which generates consistent income that allows you to live comfortably off it - until you reach the point where you can honestly look at yourself in the mirror and say you're confident that you can live off just your internet income, you shouldn't be daydreaming about leaving college just yet!
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  • Profile picture of the author jazzyjeff
    Pdom,

    Good luck to you! I'm happy you discovered internet marketing at such a young age. I was 30 when I realized that being a robot worker sucks (and to be like that for 40 more years just made me sick!) I wish I knew about IM in my college days. I'm turning 34 soon so hopefully it isn't too late for me to make it up. Need to pay off all my stupid debts (mortgage, college loan and other stupid bills).
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  • Profile picture of the author gar
    dropping out of college is a no no dear, just work on your biz, but dont drop out..that i can tell you.
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  • Profile picture of the author Jake Gray
    With internet marketing, you are never guaranteed a solid income.

    If you're going to college, stay in it and finish it. What if your business
    goes sour? There are no back-ups.

    It's always a good idea to be prepared for the unexpected.
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  • Profile picture of the author Benjamin Ehinger
    Originally Posted by pdom View Post

    Since I want to start a business so i can drop out of college and live the life I want to live (4hww inspired ambition) what would you say if I made a guide to show exactly how to do that? business creation, utilizing the college network, can't get any niche than that right? what're your thoughts? all feedback/criticism appreciated!


    Thanks
    Patrick
    Personally, I love your idea because many people go off to college to make their parents happy and they are not really meant for college. It has been proven over many years through many studies that some of the most intelligent business people are not college graduates or top GPAs. I think you will need a well written guide that speaks to this crowd and the right pricing point since they will not have too much money to spend. I think with the right marketing this can be huge and can make you quite a bit of money.

    Benjamin Ehinger
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  • Profile picture of the author pdom
    you guys are great. I'm getting such a good picture of what i'm up against from all of your life experiences. I understand both ends of the spectrum, and I understand the horrible "risk" of dropping out and "losing it all" which is, in my case, not that much..I could always bartend until things look up. Sure my mom would HATE me, but I've seen too many people have work take over their lives after college. Screw that. I wanna be able to do things while I'm still physically capable, and also have a business that really adds value to peoples lives. Sure, it won't be easy, but nothing ever worth having really is. Thanks a ton so essentially, I'm discussing hopping on a project that my friend is launching and help him with the marketing efforts and the product launch, just to create buzz. I'm also going to learn more coding, since tech is where I wanna be, that's the industry that I feel like I need to delve myself into and find out the core problems (which is marketing most of the time..at least as much as i know right now lol, but who knows?)

    I'm probably going to switch to Gallatin (individualized study) and develop my own tech entrepreneurship and buyers psychology curriculum, since you can pretty much major in whatever you want in that school. I'm going to try and incorporate coding, entrepreneurship basics, and buyers psychology. Definitely going to talk to my advisor about switching. Wish me luck! and thank you for whoever suggested double majoring, but Stern is not where I want to be I know a ton of people in Stern already, and it's about the relationships for me, so I can meet anyone at a mixer including sternies, so it's no big deal in terms of missing out on resources/opportunities. THANKS AGAIN. YOU'VE SAVED MY LIFE <3 Love you all.

    P.S. I'm gonna try that guide to throwing WILD parties/connecting/social circle building. I'm good at everything but WILD parties. Also, yeah, I need to actually have some real world experience/expertise if I wanna right a how to guide. Good point!

    Patrick
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    • Profile picture of the author paulie888
      Originally Posted by pdom View Post


      I'm probably going to switch to Gallatin (individualized study) and develop my own tech entrepreneurship and buyers psychology curriculum, since you can pretty much major in whatever you want in that school. I'm going to try and incorporate coding, entrepreneurship basics, and buyers psychology. Definitely going to talk to my advisor about switching. Wish me luck! and thank you for whoever suggested double majoring, but Stern is not where I want to be I know a ton of people in Stern already, and it's about the relationships for me, so I can meet anyone at a mixer including sternies, so it's no big deal in terms of missing out on resources/opportunities. THANKS AGAIN. YOU'VE SAVED MY LIFE <3 Love you all.

      P.S. I'm gonna try that guide to throwing WILD parties/connecting/social circle building. I'm good at everything but WILD parties. Also, yeah, I need to actually have some real world experience/expertise if I wanna right a how to guide. Good point!

      Patrick
      Patrick, this type of individualized study curriculum sounds pretty interesting, I know I never had anything remotely similar to that available to me when I was at university!

      I think you should hedge your bets and not do anything rash for the time being. There's no reason you can't do both - after all, Bill Gates and Michael Dell were enrolled in university, and only decided to drop out after their businesses took off. It doesn't have to be one or the other, at least for the time being. When you come to that turning point, I'm sure you'll know what to do then, but there's no need to jump the gun at this early point.

      Paul
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  • Profile picture of the author GLX
    thats a great day actually, i remember when i was in college it was the dream of half the students to drop out of college but it all depends how u go around the idea
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  • Profile picture of the author mustas4
    Not really a good idea - stay in college and learn IM that will help more.
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  • Profile picture of the author Mindz
    Its not for everyone . But If you do get that education It will be worth it !
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  • Profile picture of the author JBrooks
    your education is a must...dude there is no reason to bail. college/uni is great fun and an experience that will put you in good stead for the future.

    stick it out and enjoy it. unless your doing a physics or maths degree I doubt you'll need to be studying full time so you'll have ample time to become a IM guru.
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  • Profile picture of the author ArticlePenguin
    I would say stick it out man, and earn a bit of money. Then start buying some proven, established sites on established domains that make passive income. Then just start collecting and eventually youll be on easy street. May take you awhile...
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  • Profile picture of the author William10
    Originally Posted by pdom View Post

    Since I want to start a business so i can drop out of college and live the life I want to live (4hww inspired ambition) what would you say if I made a guide to show exactly how to do that? business creation, utilizing the college network, can't get any niche than that right? what're your thoughts? all feedback/criticism appreciated!


    Thanks
    Patrick

    I've been heavily considering doing the same thing, doing an exercise science degree i failed my first two exams and came very very close to dropping out. I just kept telling myself i had internet marketing to fall back on. Then however i saw common sense! for one, your IM plan may not work. what will you then fall back on? unless you find success with something like IM, in modern times you almost always need a degree or apprenticeship to get into a good career.

    I decided recently that it was time to knuckle down into my studies! the college niche would be a great one to crack into however! so i heavily suggest working on that plan on the side also!

    The whole idea of targeting this niche is great! Stick at your studies! but keep working on this idea on the side! i see great potential in doing so!
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