Start Something: Entrepreneurship 101 for Philly Students

Have you ever had an idea for a product, a side hustle, or a project that could help your neighborhood, but you stopped because you didn’t know how to start? If so, you are already thinking like an entrepreneur.

For our What’s Your Plan? campaign, we sat down with Dr. John Wilson, a professor of entrepreneurship and innovation at Drexel University’s Close School of Entrepreneurship. Dr. Wilson breaks down the big, intimidating world of business into one very simple definition: An entrepreneur is just someone who starts something.

You Don’t Need Money to Start. You Just Need an Idea.

One of the biggest myths keeping students from chasing their ideas is the belief that you need massive funding to begin. Dr. Wilson suggests the exact opposite approach: Start smaller.

You don’t need a perfect business plan to get going. A napkin sketch, a quick Canva poster, or a simple video explaining your idea is enough. The goal is to get your idea in front of people to see if they actually like it before you spend a single dime. By testing your ideas early and getting feedback, you can slowly build something that people truly want.

Watch the Full Breakdown: Freedom, Dreams, and AI

In this video, Dr. Wilson explains how Artificial Intelligence is creating 180 million jobs that don’t even exist yet, why “artists and doers” make the best founders, and where you can find free resources and incubators right here in Philadelphia.

What if You Just Want a “Regular” Job?

Maybe you don’t want to run your own company. Maybe you just want to graduate, get a great job, and have a steady paycheck. According to Dr. Wilson, learning these skills is still the smartest move you can make.

Companies are desperately looking for employees with an “entrepreneurial mindset”—people who are creative, who look for better ways to do things, and who take initiative. The grit, tenacity, and resilience you learn by trying to start a project will make you the most valuable person in any career field you choose.

Entrepreneurship is really about freedom and dreams. So, don’t wait for the “perfect” time. Get out there and start something today.

🎉 What’s Your Plan?
Whether you are interested in entrepreneurship, applying to college, or exploring vocational training, we’re here to help you map out your path after high school. Download the WYP Family and Students Companion Guide to help you explore and navigate the various pathways after graduation!