Dear professor smith: Although I never intend to run or own my own business, this course has provided me a chance to learn about the business world and gain a better understand the some of the “gears” that run this giant. Especially in our current economy I believe that it is important to educate people on the world of business in order to help them understand the how it is run and what steps can be taken to avoid or lighten any financial losses. Throughout the course you’ve taught us about various areas of business from owning a small business to how banks and Federal Reserve Systems work together to control the flow of money thought the American economy, we’ve even discussed the ethics behind certain business practices and how it effects the “personal” relationship between management and employees. Despite all the area the topics that we’ve discussed I believe that the two most influential pieces of information that would be most effective in starting and operating a small business would be (1) research and preparation and (2) management. Even though some people might consider research and preparation two different topics I believe that it is one process that cannot be fulfilled without the others competition (you cannot be considered prepared if you haven’t conducted research and your research won’t be complete until you’re properly prepared). When an individual decides to go into business for their self they are then considered an entrepreneur, however before they are to enter into the business field they should take the time to learn about the industry they are planning to enter. This is where research comes in entrepreneurs should find how other business owners in their field manage their businesses, how they attract businesses, what precautions that they took to help their business stay afloat during hard times and so on. In addition a business plan should be drawn together in order for the entrepreneur to gain a realistic view of their business potential. A business plan is a detailed written outline for a business; this outline can include information such as an address and number, the businesses objective and goals, a list of employee skills and abilities, even a short summary plan for the business in the next year. By properly preparing and conducting research an entrepreneur would lower the high risk of failure even before they started their business. Management skills is one of the most important aspects of small business ownership, this area can spell the difference between a complete success and an utter failure in a business. Management can consist of several skills and abilities ranging from social skills to money management even the physical labor (if they do not have any employees). For example if a entrepreneur were great social skills they’re staff wouldn’t have such a large problem with staying later then their shift requires. On the other hand an entrepreneur that is poor at managing money would not only place the very foundation of their business at risk but also their credit. As a student research, preparation and management are the most important concepts that we must fulfill, (this is excluding comprehension) properly applying these terms will not guarantee a “passing grade” but better a student’s knowledge in that area; in my case fully reading the assigned homework pages or class work notes. Also being prepared for any test or quizzes even in projects such as Small Business Administration website; I had to review the website before choosing the topic I wanted to discuss. Management is crucial in a student’s life; I usually “kill” my social life to maintain a healthy academic life. So I rarely go out or party with friends while I’m in school. Finally, although I rarely study I keep great class notes and do great in homework. In conclusion this class has in many ways been a great experience. I’ve learned a lot about the way business is conducted and how it affects this country in many ways. I thank you for teaching me this class and exposing me to the world of business, furthermore I’m delighted to have you as a teacher. Sincerely Anton Kerkula