If you’re a prospective student interested in starting a business at university, you need to find a university that gives you access to the expertise and support that will help you reach your full potential.
In our blog, we’ve listed our top tips for aspiring business owners, as well as the support available to Newcastle University students.
Students are innovative by nature, with a refreshing take on the world and an ability to notice gaps in products or services that others can’t. It’s for this reason, and many others, that a huge number of businesses start at university. Here's our advice for budding entrepreneurs who are current and prospective students.
Interact with students who have different levels of knowledge and expertise
At university you get the chance to mix with people from all walks of life, with varying experiences, outlooks and skills. This gives you a huge advantage over other start-ups. In one university flat alone, you might have access to a lawyer, a marketer and a graphic designer, for example.
Build new friendships, learn from your peers and draw on their creativity or insight.
Take advantage of your spare time
When people start a business later in life, it’s often while they’re working full time, too. University students can have a lot of autonomy over how they spend their spare time outside of lectures and seminars.
However, do remember why you’re at university in the first place. Your business should never interfere with your studies!
Build a network of connections
Universities house future business owners, world-class academics and experts, and they regularly invite guest speakers and host career fairs with representatives from big-name brands. Fundamentally, they have lots of valuable business contacts under one roof, so take advantage of any opportunity to make an impression.
Create a LinkedIn account during your studies, to connect with anyone you meet who you may want to work with further down the line.
Apply your learnings practically
If you’re studying a degree that’s relevant to the business you’re thinking of starting, then start applying your learning practically. By practising what you’ve learned in your lectures and seminars, you can further your business idea and strengthen your understanding of the course material. It’s a win-win!
Reflect on your own consumer behaviour
As a young person, it's likely you spend a lot of time online. Think critically about what emails you open over others, the social media accounts you engage with the most and the ones that tell the most compelling stories. There are countless case studies to draw inspiration from right at your fingertips. So, start thinking like a brand.
Lean on your university's resources and services
Universities will usually have budget and support systems in place for those wanting to start their own business. Here at Newcastle University, we have START UP.
Through START UP students and graduates can benefit from co-working space, one-to-one support from a team of advisers, alumni entrepreneurs and a network of industry experts, investors and influencers.
There are currently 240 START UP-supported businesses trading with a combined annual turnover of £220 million. Between them, they've won national and global awards and created 1,350 full-time equivalent jobs.
Learn more about our Careers Service support
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