The Importance of Gaining Enterpreneurial Experience Before Entering Tertiary Institutions

 

Introduction

Many young people rush into tertiary education right after high school without having any real-world work experience, especially in entrepreneurship. While higher education is valuable, gaining hands-on entrepreneurial experience before entering a university or college can provide life-changing lessons that shape one’s career, financial mindset, and overall success in the future.

Entrepreneurship is not just about starting a business; it is about developing critical thinking, problem-solving skills, leadership, and resilience. In this article, I will discuss why gaining entrepreneurial experience before tertiary education is crucial and how it prepares students for a more meaningful and impactful academic journey.

Learning Financial Independence Early

One of the biggest advantages of engaging in entrepreneurial work before entering a tertiary institution is learning financial independence. Many students struggle with money management once they enter university, relying on allowances or student loans. However, those who have had entrepreneurial experience understand the value of money, budgeting, and investing.

Running a small business, whether it is selling handmade products, offering services, or engaging in digital businesses like freelancing, teaches young individuals how to handle finances, save, and reinvest profits. This financial knowledge becomes incredibly useful during and after tertiary education, reducing the likelihood of unnecessary debt and fostering a responsible money mindset.

Developing Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking Skills

Entrepreneurship forces individuals to think outside the box. Unlike school, where most problems have predefined solutions, business challenges require innovation and adaptability. When young people engage in entrepreneurial activities, they develop critical thinking skills that help them navigate complex situations.

For example, if someone starts a small business selling clothes online, they will have to deal with challenges like marketing, customer service, and competition. Finding creative solutions to these problems strengthens their problem-solving ability, which is highly beneficial when tackling university coursework or real-world challenges later in life.

Enhancing Time Management and Responsibility

Tertiary education demands a high level of self-discipline and time management. Many students struggle to balance academic work, social life, and personal responsibilities. However, those who have run a business or engaged in entrepreneurial activities before university already understand how to manage their time effectively.

Entrepreneurial work teaches young individuals the importance of deadlines, setting goals, and working efficiently. They learn firsthand that procrastination leads to losses, and consistency leads to success. These habits transition smoothly into tertiary education, where time management is crucial for academic success.

Building Confidence and Communication Skills

Confidence and communication are two essential skills that entrepreneurship fosters. When running a business, individuals are required to communicate with customers, suppliers, and sometimes even employees. This experience builds self-confidence and sharpens communication skills, which are beneficial in university and beyond.

For example, a student who has experience negotiating deals or promoting products will likely be more comfortable presenting in class, networking with professionals, and handling interviews for internships or jobs. These skills set them apart from their peers who may lack practical business experience.

Gaining a Sense of Purpose and Career Direction

Many students enter tertiary education without a clear sense of what they want to pursue. They pick courses based on societal expectations or parental influence rather than personal interest. However, those who engage in entrepreneurial activities before university often discover their passions earlier.

For instance, someone who starts a photography business may realize they enjoy media and communication studies, while another who sells homemade skincare products may develop an interest in chemistry or business management. This early exposure helps students make informed academic and career choices, reducing the chances of switching courses or feeling lost in their studies.

Developing a Resilient Mindset

Entrepreneurship is not easy—it comes with failures, setbacks, and disappointments. However, overcoming these challenges builds resilience, a crucial trait for success in any field.

Students who have experienced entrepreneurial failures before entering tertiary education are more likely to handle academic pressure and life’s uncertainties with a positive mindset. They understand that failure is not the end but a stepping stone to improvement. This mindset helps them push through difficulties, whether in academics, job hunting, or personal growth.

Conclusion

Getting entrepreneurial experience before entering tertiary education is one of the most valuable steps a young person can take. It teaches financial independence, problem-solving, time management, confidence, and resilience—skills that are essential for academic and professional success.

While tertiary education provides theoretical knowledge, entrepreneurship offers practical lessons that prepare individuals for real-world challenges. Therefore, before heading to university, I strongly encourage young people to explore entrepreneurial opportunities. Whether it is a small business, freelancing, or any other form of self-employment, the experience gained will be a lifelong asset.