On November 16th, the Arts Management Network, a student organization comprised of AEMM graduate students, held the inaugural roundtable of their “Launchpad” event series.  The Launchpad series offers practical advice and firsthand knowledge from experienced speakers, bringing together alumni and students from across all disciplines to build professional skills and strengthen those all-important Columbia networks. 

The November roll-out event, “Like a Boss,” featured panelists Dr. Terri Lonier and Justin Sinkovich, assistant professors in the AEMM department, and Don Smith, an associate professor in the Film & Video department.  Lonier, Sinkovich, and Smith discussed entrepreneurial ventures and the critical skills and issues involved in starting one’s own business.  All experienced entrepreneurs themselves, the three panelists shared some common beginner mistakes and the best resources for creating your business and finding a job.  A firm foundation in basic areas such as writing, accounting, public speaking, and organization can go a long way, as well as having the right attitude, a strong work ethic, and a willingness to take risks.  The ideas that Lonier, Sinkovich, and Smith presented are invaluable for creating a business and for finding employment in tough economic times.

Future Launchpad events will continue the focus on the essential issues in today’s changing business climate—next semester’s events will center around marketing and revenue generation.  Watch AEMM’s Facebook Page (facebook.com/cccaemm) or follow AEMM on Twitter (#cccaemm) for details.