1. Am I an entrepreneur?
According to the Oxford Dictionary, an entrepreneur “organizes and operates a business or businesses.” This is not exclusive to individuals with specific economic or social statuses. Anyone can become an entrepreneur with the right mindset and guidance. Pursuing a business idea is what defines someone as an entrepreneur. Many activities that students engage in during their educational journeys develop skills essential for entrepreneurial success. Currently, I do not perceive myself as an entrepreneur.

2. What is success?
Success can have various interpretations depending on the individual. However, they generally share a common foundation. This entails the presence of an idea or activity that leads to a favorable outcome. I believe success is achieved through consistent positive outcomes over time. For instance, in the context of a business, acquiring the first customer could be seen as a success since it signifies attracting an initial customer. Nevertheless, does this necessarily indicate overall success for the business? From my perspective, I would consider it an accomplishment but not yet a true success.

3. Am I a self-starter? How well do I follow through on my ideas?
I consider myself a self-starter. When it comes to ideas or activities I wish to complete or accomplish, I typically see them through independently. This applies mainly to smaller, short-term tasks. However, when it comes to long-term ideas, I initially make a strong start but often require a boost from peers or family members to maintain motivation and complete the task. I find it difficult to easily disappoint others. So, when they become involved, it serves as a significant motivator for me to follow through with my ideas. Thus, I tend to excel at following through on smaller tasks but struggle more with larger endeavors or ideas.

4. How does ODU view entrepreneurship?
ODU places significant emphasis on entrepreneurship and has allocated numerous resources to support students in becoming entrepreneurs. For instance, ODU has established programs like EED and STROME. EED, which stands for Entrepreneurship and Economic Development, imparts skills through curricular activities. Additionally, it researches regional economic development and identifies emerging best practices. Moreover, EED assists startups and existing businesses at every stage. ODU has also established STROME, a dedicated space aimed at fostering an entrepreneurial culture and initiating economic development in the region.

5. What is my role in this ecosystem?
In this ecosystem, my role is to recognize the opportunity to become an entrepreneur. Then utilize the assistance of ODU programs, resources, and staff to follow through with my business ideas. With the goal to establish a successful business that aligns with regional economic growth. ODU’s supportive staff and peers serve as motivating factors that help me stay focused and committed to learning new entrepreneurial strategies.