Me and some of my friends started a business, and I’m wondering how it will boost my chances for admission to Stern for undergrad. We already have an apparel business, but are now starting a marketing agency. What do the admissions staff look for in student-made businesses? If we don’t have a huge business, does it even matter? Obviously the business is not just for Stern, but I want to know if it actually boosts my chances of admission.
Thanks in advance.
Bump
I heard that having a business of your time is beneficial when applying to Stern because it just re emphasizes that this is your passion, but by no means does an applicant NEED to have started a business to get accepted. I know multiple people from my school (this year and the past couple of years) that have gotten in without having started a business but having one definitely helps.
Current Stern student here.
I’ve met a few people here who have started a business in high school. I can’t really tell you whether or not it would help in your admissions, since everyone here seems pretty damn smart regardless, but what I HAVE seen is that most of the ones who started them in high school were either non-profits, social ventures, or a very basic online shop or something.
I think it’s great that you’d want to start a business now, but just remember that it is very unlikely that you have very much experience in areas such as marketing, and the admissions officers probably know that. If you’re looking to potentially make some money, go for it! But just realize that it would probably look better if you were to find an internship or a part-time job at a local marketing firm over making your own. But of course, having your own business can be an exciting venture and would DEFINITELY aid in boosting the overall appearance of your application. Good luck!