During my schooling for Interior Architecture, the program provided a basic class on how to start a business. It mainly covered how to write a business plan and make business cards. It was helpful, but lacking critical planning and financial methods. Honestly, I slept through most of it. It did not cut it.
Looking back, I wish that more opportunities to learn about business were provided and more emphasis put on planning for the future. Even if I end up working for a firm for a few years, it doesn't guarantee that I will be taught or begin to understand how to actually run the business. Even now, I find myself asking, "How do I charge a customer? How much do I charge them? What is the best method for handling finances, handling taxes, professionally charging clients, and dealing with mistakes?" and "How do I legally protect myself?"
As a recent graduate student dealing with the tough job market, I definitely think that business classes geared specifically towards our field should be offered. Schools should serve the purpose of preparing students for the future of working in our society as it currently is, not only teaching us to be excellent designers and architects. I think that during this time of economic slowdown, further business class opportunities would have been very helpful. I have been considering going back to school again, and business classes are included in that plan.
During my schooling for Interior Architecture, the program provided a basic class on how to start a business. It mainly covered how to write a business plan and make business cards. It was helpful, but lacking critical planning and financial methods. Honestly, I slept through most of it. It did not cut it.
Looking back, I wish that more opportunities to learn about business were provided and more emphasis put on planning for the future. Even if I end up working for a firm for a few years, it doesn't guarantee that I will be taught or begin to understand how to actually run the business. Even now, I find myself asking, "How do I charge a customer? How much do I charge them? What is the best method for handling finances, handling taxes, professionally charging clients, and dealing with mistakes?" and "How do I legally protect myself?"
As a recent graduate student dealing with the tough job market, I definitely think that business classes geared specifically towards our field should be offered. Schools should serve the purpose of preparing students for the future of working in our society as it currently is, not only teaching us to be excellent designers and architects. I think that during this time of economic slowdown, further business class opportunities would have been very helpful. I have been considering going back to school again, and business classes are included in that plan.