Learn to Be an Entrepreneur

LEXINGTON, Ky. (Nov. 10, 2010) − The University of Kentucky's James W. Stuckert Career Center will introduce students to careers as entrepreneurs 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday, Nov. 12 at the King Alumni House. The "Do Something Awesome" entrepreneurship event is also sponsored by local business Awesome Inc., a company co-founded by UK alumni Brian Raney and Luke Murray.

"We want to make sure students know that they have the option of creating their own job," Raney said. "We want them to realize they have what it takes to turn their idea into a reality."

Students can come any time during the day to listen to speakers and participate in the event. Participants will have the opportunity to ask the entrepreneurs questions during panel discussions.

"They'll be offering tips for entrepreneurs starting out," said Naitore Kiogora, employer relations associate for the Stuckert Career Center. "Attendees will walk away with resources on generating funds and mastering the importance of networking."

Raney will be one of many young entrepreneurs who will help introduce UK students to the idea of creating their own businesses.

"I will discuss the importance of building a team that you can trust, count on, and have fun with," said Raney. "My favorite part of being an entrepreneur is that I get to pick who I work with. In the good times and the bad, it is always essential to have quality people around you."

Other speakers include Christine Amerman of Amerman Creative, Pat Powell of UK's Lexington Innovation & Commercialization Center (ICC) and Randall Stevens of ArchVision. A complete list of presenters is available at www.dsa.awesomeinc.org.

Kiogora said in a struggling economy, the timing is ideal for people to consider different career options. "I think it's a great idea for students who might be looking for an alternative to joining the workplace full-time or going to grad school," she said.

The event is aimed at students, but is open to UK alumni and staff as well. Participants will be invited to join the Stuckert Career Center with a free lunch sponsored by Fazoli's.

Future entrepreneurs can pitch their ideas to Awesome Inc. for a chance to win a free iPod Touch. Students can apply for the opportunity to pitch their idea at the seminar by going to www.dosomethingawesome.awesomeinc.org.

Students interested in attending the event should RSVP on Wildcat CareerLink or by calling the Stuckert Career Center at (859) 257-2746.