Frequently Asked Questions
Answered by Melissa Gore, Coordinator
What does a typical day in the class look like?
"A typical day in class mirrors a day at work. Students select to work in different departments of their businesses, typically Administration, Accounting/Finance, Sales, Marketing, Human Resources and IT. There is a CEO that works with managers who oversee each department. Working in teams to make decisions about how to complete their departmental tasks in support of company goals and objectives, students learn from both their successes and mistakes."
What type of credit will I receive for taking the class?
"Students receive 1 CP credit for each semester of Virtual Enterprise 1 and 2. Beginning Fall 2015, Virtual Enterprise 3 and 4 will have an Honors credit option. Along with that, Virtual Enterprise works with Horry Georgetown Technical College so that each student that completes VE 1 and 2 will receive TAP credit at HGTC. That means the student receives credit hours for BUS 101 at HGTC."
How would you describe the class?
"The class is a business simulation class that replicates all of the functions of real businesses in both structure and practice. Through all of the activities, VEI students learn professionalism, business acumen, corporate knowledge, presentation and leadership skills, and teamwork. And through their business and trade across industries, borders, and cultures, students develop hands-on knowledge of the expectations of both the workplace and the global economy. It is unlike any other business course because the students lead the class!"
What sort of outside activities does the class participate in?
"We participate in the Midwest Trade Show in Pigeon Forge, TN in the Fall. We, also, participate in local, state and regional competitions such as the Business Plan Competition, Trade Show Design, Salesmanship, Website, Catalog, and the list goes on. Our goal is to attend the National Trade Show and Business Plan Competition in New York City!"
What would you say to someone who is unsure about signing up for the class?
"It is important for each student to be business-minded and self-driven. While the class is a unique, fun experience, it is not for everyone. I would love to talk with anyone interested or unsure personally to be able to explain in more detail the requirements and expectations for the course."
How could you apply the skills learned in this class to college and the real world?
"This class provides students with fundamental organizational and cooperative skills that are used daily in the real business world. Students are taught how to effectively solve problems and how to act professionally in a work environment."
What sort of prerequisites do I need to join?
"Prerequisites for the course are IBA and Algebra 1."
What are examples of some virtual businesses VEI students start?
"In the past, we have had a beachwear store, a sporting goods store, a bath and body store, and several clothing stores."
What made you want to be the coordinator of the class?
"My dad has owned his own business all my life. He taught me so many aspects of owning and running a business. I was involved in the business in many aspects as I was growing up and that gave me a passion for teaching and encouraging students to be entrepreneurs and business owners. When I learned about Virtual Enterprise, I knew that I wanted to be a part of this great program. I want students to learn and grow as business leaders and professionals so that they will have a competitive advantage in the real world. Virtual Enterprise gives students opportunities for growth in ways that no other business class can."