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How should I, as an 8th grader interested in business, but not sure on the track start?
I know that I want a lot of money when I start my career, and that I am interested in a business major with math. I think that I am open to any possible career options near me.
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17 answers
Updated
Stephanie’s Answer
If you're an 8th grader interested in business but unsure where to start, focus on exploring broadly and gaining exposure. Try reading books or listening to podcasts about entrepreneurs, join school clubs like DECA, and start small projects like selling online or running a local service. Build strong skills in math, writing, and basic tech tools like Excel. Most importantly, stay curious and open-minded — business is a wide field, and experimenting early will help you find what excites you most.
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Wyatt’s Answer
Hello Ryder,
Thank you for your question—I really admire your forward thinking at such a young age! I wish I had started considering my career path as early as you are, so I have a lot of respect for the initiative you’re showing. As for me, I bring both formal education and over 25 years of experience in the business world, having worked my way from entry-level roles to executive leadership, managing multiple departments along the way.
At your age with an interest in business, you’re in a great position to begin laying the foundation for a future in the field. Even if you’re not yet sure which specific track you want to pursue—such as entrepreneurship, marketing, finance, or management—there are several simple and effective ways to explore your interests and start building valuable skills.
One of the best places to start is by learning the basics. Reading beginner-friendly books about business or watching educational videos can introduce you to core concepts like budgeting, investing, and starting a business. Resources such as Teen Entrepreneur Toolbox or websites like Junior Achievement offer practical lessons and real-world examples designed specifically for students.
Getting involved in school or community programs can also be a great way to explore business in a hands-on way. Many middle and high schools offer clubs like DECA, student leadership groups, or entrepreneurship programs that allow you to take on projects, compete in events, and meet others with similar interests. These experiences not only teach important business skills but also help you gain confidence working in teams and communicating your ideas.
Another powerful way to learn is by starting your own mini project. Whether it’s selling homemade crafts, walking dogs in your neighborhood, or organizing a small fundraiser, these simple ventures give you firsthand experience in customer service, money management, and marketing. You’ll learn how to solve problems, make decisions, and see what it takes to bring an idea to life.
It’s also a good idea to talk to adults who work in business. If you know someone who owns or manages a business, ask if you can visit their workplace, shadow them for a day, or do a short interview. These conversations can give you valuable insights into the day-to-day responsibilities of different business careers.
You don’t need to have all the answers now. The world of business is wide and full of possibilities. By taking small steps now—learning, experimenting, and exploring—you’ll be better prepared to choose the right path for you in the future.
All the best to you!
Wyatt
Thank you for your question—I really admire your forward thinking at such a young age! I wish I had started considering my career path as early as you are, so I have a lot of respect for the initiative you’re showing. As for me, I bring both formal education and over 25 years of experience in the business world, having worked my way from entry-level roles to executive leadership, managing multiple departments along the way.
At your age with an interest in business, you’re in a great position to begin laying the foundation for a future in the field. Even if you’re not yet sure which specific track you want to pursue—such as entrepreneurship, marketing, finance, or management—there are several simple and effective ways to explore your interests and start building valuable skills.
One of the best places to start is by learning the basics. Reading beginner-friendly books about business or watching educational videos can introduce you to core concepts like budgeting, investing, and starting a business. Resources such as Teen Entrepreneur Toolbox or websites like Junior Achievement offer practical lessons and real-world examples designed specifically for students.
Getting involved in school or community programs can also be a great way to explore business in a hands-on way. Many middle and high schools offer clubs like DECA, student leadership groups, or entrepreneurship programs that allow you to take on projects, compete in events, and meet others with similar interests. These experiences not only teach important business skills but also help you gain confidence working in teams and communicating your ideas.
Another powerful way to learn is by starting your own mini project. Whether it’s selling homemade crafts, walking dogs in your neighborhood, or organizing a small fundraiser, these simple ventures give you firsthand experience in customer service, money management, and marketing. You’ll learn how to solve problems, make decisions, and see what it takes to bring an idea to life.
It’s also a good idea to talk to adults who work in business. If you know someone who owns or manages a business, ask if you can visit their workplace, shadow them for a day, or do a short interview. These conversations can give you valuable insights into the day-to-day responsibilities of different business careers.
You don’t need to have all the answers now. The world of business is wide and full of possibilities. By taking small steps now—learning, experimenting, and exploring—you’ll be better prepared to choose the right path for you in the future.
All the best to you!
Wyatt
Updated
Debra’s Answer
How about starting your own company now.....what are your interests? Are you good with computers and know how to set them up? Maybe advertise your services in a local online community blog. Mowing lawns, babysitting, yardwork....etc....the best way to understand how business works is to run a small business.
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Mashal’s Answer
Hey! It’s amazing that you’re already thinking about business and your future in 8th grade. You don’t need to have everything figured out, but knowing you enjoy math, want to study business, and care about earning well is a solid start.
Since “business” is a big field, try learning about different roles like financial analyst, data analyst, product manager, entrepreneur, or actuary. These all involve numbers and problem-solving, and many of them pay really well. Watch short YouTube videos like “day in the life of a [career]” or explore free courses on Khan Academy (especially economics and personal finance).
In high school, take math seriously it’s your best friend in business. If your school offers business or economics classes, take those too. Join clubs like DECA or FBLA if you can. Even organizing a fundraiser, selling something, or managing a project with friends is real business experience. You’ll learn communication, teamwork, and how to make ideas happen — all skills great businesspeople have.
Since you’re open to any nearby opportunities, talk to adults you know about what they do. Shadow someone or help a local business with a task like organizing or posting on social media , that’s a start. And if nothing local exists, don’t stress — you can still build skills online through free resources and small personal projects.
Money-wise, majors like finance, economics, business analytics, or management information systems can lead to high-paying careers. But what really pays off is building real skills alongside your degree, like using Excel, making smart decisions, leading a team, or understanding what people need.
For now, keep learning a bit each week, stay curious, and try small things maybe start a mini project or help someone organize something. That’s how real business minds grow.
Since “business” is a big field, try learning about different roles like financial analyst, data analyst, product manager, entrepreneur, or actuary. These all involve numbers and problem-solving, and many of them pay really well. Watch short YouTube videos like “day in the life of a [career]” or explore free courses on Khan Academy (especially economics and personal finance).
In high school, take math seriously it’s your best friend in business. If your school offers business or economics classes, take those too. Join clubs like DECA or FBLA if you can. Even organizing a fundraiser, selling something, or managing a project with friends is real business experience. You’ll learn communication, teamwork, and how to make ideas happen — all skills great businesspeople have.
Since you’re open to any nearby opportunities, talk to adults you know about what they do. Shadow someone or help a local business with a task like organizing or posting on social media , that’s a start. And if nothing local exists, don’t stress — you can still build skills online through free resources and small personal projects.
Money-wise, majors like finance, economics, business analytics, or management information systems can lead to high-paying careers. But what really pays off is building real skills alongside your degree, like using Excel, making smart decisions, leading a team, or understanding what people need.
For now, keep learning a bit each week, stay curious, and try small things maybe start a mini project or help someone organize something. That’s how real business minds grow.
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Thomas’s Answer
The core math related topics in HS and college where you could focus your energies would be: Accounting, Finance, Macroeconomics, Microeconomics. These tend to lead to a financial services career path - think Financial Planner, Banking, Wealth Management, Accountant, Business Finance Executive. I strongly recommend you speak to people in those fields (i.e. informational interviews) to understand the day - to - day and see if you continue to find interest in these areas.
You can also do extra credit by reading the Wall Street Journal, looking at CNBC and reading the websites of these companies (i.e. Morgan Stanley, Goldman Sachs, JP Morgan, Citigroup, etc) to gain an understanding of their mission to see if it aligns with your goals.
You can also do extra credit by reading the Wall Street Journal, looking at CNBC and reading the websites of these companies (i.e. Morgan Stanley, Goldman Sachs, JP Morgan, Citigroup, etc) to gain an understanding of their mission to see if it aligns with your goals.
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Mateo’s Answer
You don’t need to lock yourself into one track yet, especially in 8th grade. The best move right now is to focus on building skills that’ll give you options later. Since you’re into business and math, I’d lean into those. Get solid at math because it opens doors in finance, data, and even entrepreneurship.
Outside of school, try little experiments—sell something online, flip items, or help a local business with social media. You’ll learn more from those small projects than any textbook. Also, read a bit about how money and businesses actually work (biographies of entrepreneurs are great for this).
Think of this stage as “exploration mode.” By the time you’re in high school, you’ll have a better idea of which path in business feels right for you.
Outside of school, try little experiments—sell something online, flip items, or help a local business with social media. You’ll learn more from those small projects than any textbook. Also, read a bit about how money and businesses actually work (biographies of entrepreneurs are great for this).
Think of this stage as “exploration mode.” By the time you’re in high school, you’ll have a better idea of which path in business feels right for you.
Updated
Juan C.’s Answer
It’s impressive that you’re thinking about business this early, you're already ahead. Start by exploring topics like marketing or entrepreneurship through podcasts, YouTube, or beginner books. Join school clubs like DECA or student council, and don’t be afraid to try small projects, like selling something you make or offering a service in your neighborhood. Stay curious, keep learning, and remember every great business leader started with a first step, just like this.
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John G.’s Answer
Business is a broad field, so focus on what excites you the most. Do you like sports, fashion, food, helping people, or building things? For example, one of my sons wanted to help people live healthier lives, so he became a chiropractor for athletes. The other loves gaming and money, so he works remotely as a tech project manager and trades cryptocurrency.
Understanding what you don't want to do is just as important as knowing what you do want. There are no wrong choices. If you follow your passion and avoid what you dislike, it won't feel like work. Instead, it will feel like a fulfilling mission.
Understanding what you don't want to do is just as important as knowing what you do want. There are no wrong choices. If you follow your passion and avoid what you dislike, it won't feel like work. Instead, it will feel like a fulfilling mission.
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Tamara’s Answer
When I was your age, the best decision I made was to start my own little business. Think about something you enjoy and are good at, like baking cookies, growing tomatoes, writing letters, or painting rocks. Then, figure out how to make some money from it. Start by sharing it with people nearby. The library has lots of classes and ideas for kids your age to help you get started. You'll learn so much more by doing it yourself than just hearing about it.
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Mike’s Answer
You don't need to have all the answers at this point in time. Have passion and keep an open mind. Going into high school take more advanced math and business electives and join groups/clubs that emphasize entrepreneurs. Get involved with your local community in volunteering with small business owners to see how operations work for real world exposure.
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Rebecca’s Answer
Thank you for your question. I am glad to hear that you have interest in business. You still have plenty of time to explore the career you have interest.
Below are my suggestions:
1. There are many business related cart, eg Finance, Banking, Accounting, Marketing, Human Resources, Business Administration, etc..You can find out more business related careers online.
2. Find out more on these careers and determine what you have interest
3. Speak to someone who are working in these careers. Seek guidance from your mentor, school career counselor, your parents, etc
4. Shortlist 1-2 careers you would like to pursue
5. Explore the entry criteria of relevant subjects in colleges
Hope this helps! Good luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Below are my suggestions:
1. There are many business related cart, eg Finance, Banking, Accounting, Marketing, Human Resources, Business Administration, etc..You can find out more business related careers online.
2. Find out more on these careers and determine what you have interest
3. Speak to someone who are working in these careers. Seek guidance from your mentor, school career counselor, your parents, etc
4. Shortlist 1-2 careers you would like to pursue
5. Explore the entry criteria of relevant subjects in colleges
Hope this helps! Good luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Updated
RIchard’s Answer
Hi Ryder,
The best thing you can do right now is to do great in school. Get the best grades possible and take AP courses in High School whenever you can. That will get you on the path to getting accepted to a top university. Don't worry today about what specific field you want to be in... your mind can change 10 times between now and by the time you get to high school. Study what interests you the most. Do what you love. Just do great at whatever that is and you will find great happiness and success in your life.
The best thing you can do right now is to do great in school. Get the best grades possible and take AP courses in High School whenever you can. That will get you on the path to getting accepted to a top university. Don't worry today about what specific field you want to be in... your mind can change 10 times between now and by the time you get to high school. Study what interests you the most. Do what you love. Just do great at whatever that is and you will find great happiness and success in your life.
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Christos’s Answer
I agree with Debra. The experience of trying to start a small business will teach so many things about business. Trying to find customers, managing money, interacting with people and most of all making friends and relationships you never would of made. This will be a huge boost to your career and who knows might contribute to paying for your education.
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Amy’s Answer
That’s fantastic that you're already interested in business! It’s totally okay to not know your exact path yet—what matters is that you're exploring and staying curious. Since you're in 8th grade, now's a great time to start trying out different things to see what you enjoy.
You might look into school clubs like student council, DECA, or even a business or entrepreneurship club if your school has one. Outside of school, you can try small projects like selling crafts online, running a lemonade stand, or helping with a family business—anything that teaches you how businesses work. Reading books or watching videos about entrepreneurs and companies you admire can also spark ideas.
And don’t forget—skills like communicating well, solving problems, and being organized are super important in business, no matter the track. You're already taking the first step by asking the right questions.
You might look into school clubs like student council, DECA, or even a business or entrepreneurship club if your school has one. Outside of school, you can try small projects like selling crafts online, running a lemonade stand, or helping with a family business—anything that teaches you how businesses work. Reading books or watching videos about entrepreneurs and companies you admire can also spark ideas.
And don’t forget—skills like communicating well, solving problems, and being organized are super important in business, no matter the track. You're already taking the first step by asking the right questions.
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Bill’s Answer
Ryder,
It's amazing that you have a passion for business so early on! This will really help you in the future. High school is a fantastic time to learn and grow. Try to explore different fields to understand various careers and opportunities. Consider running for a position or joining something like student government.
It's amazing that you have a passion for business so early on! This will really help you in the future. High school is a fantastic time to learn and grow. Try to explore different fields to understand various careers and opportunities. Consider running for a position or joining something like student government.
Updated
David’s Answer
Hello Ryder,
That’s a great mindset to start with—you’re already ahead by thinking about your interests and future career early. Since you're in 8th grade, this is the perfect time to explore without pressure. Here's a step-by-step path to help you build a strong foundation in business + math and keep doors open for high-earning career options:
Step 1: Build Your Academic Foundation
Focus on: Math, English, and basic computer skills
• Take the hardest math class available to you (like Algebra I if offered).
• Start learning Excel or Google Sheets—these are essential for any business career.
• Get comfortable with writing and presenting your ideas—it’ll help later in business and interviews.
Step 2: Explore Business in High School
Once you start high school, take these steps:
Join Business-Focused Activities
• DECA (business competitions)
• FBLA (Future Business Leaders of America)
• Student Council or Finance Club
• Run a small side hustle (lawn care, reselling items, tutoring, etc.)
Choose Smart Classes
• Take business electives (if offered): Intro to Business, Marketing, Accounting
• Stick with advanced math: Algebra, Geometry, and eventually Pre-Calc and Calculus
• If you can, learn intro coding or data science—finance + coding is powerful
Step 3: Learn About Careers & Majors
As you move through high school, start researching:
High-Paying Business + Math Careers
• Investment Banker
• Financial Analyst
• Actuary
• Management Consultant
• Tech Sales (Software/SaaS)
• Entrepreneur (own your own business!)
• Data Analyst in business
Majors That Match Your Interests
• Finance
• Accounting
• Economics
• Business Analytics
• Actuarial Science
• Management Information Systems (MIS)
• Data Science (with a business focus)
Step 4: Explore Online and Real-World Learning
• Watch YouTube channels like Graham Stephan (personal finance) or UpFlip (small business interviews)
• Listen to podcasts like "How I Built This" or "Planet Money"
• Use Khan Academy for economics and personal finance
• Try a summer camp or course on business, investing, or entrepreneurship
Step 5: Stay Curious and Open
• It’s okay not to have all the answers now.
• Try job shadowing in high school—see what real business careers are like.
• Stay flexible: you might discover you like marketing more than finance or analytics more than management.
Optional: Want to Start a Fun Side Hustle Now?
• Sell products on Etsy or eBay
• Walk dogs or babysit (learn to manage your own money)
• Design logos on Canva and sell them
• Track your own finances like a business
That’s a great mindset to start with—you’re already ahead by thinking about your interests and future career early. Since you're in 8th grade, this is the perfect time to explore without pressure. Here's a step-by-step path to help you build a strong foundation in business + math and keep doors open for high-earning career options:
Step 1: Build Your Academic Foundation
Focus on: Math, English, and basic computer skills
• Take the hardest math class available to you (like Algebra I if offered).
• Start learning Excel or Google Sheets—these are essential for any business career.
• Get comfortable with writing and presenting your ideas—it’ll help later in business and interviews.
Step 2: Explore Business in High School
Once you start high school, take these steps:
Join Business-Focused Activities
• DECA (business competitions)
• FBLA (Future Business Leaders of America)
• Student Council or Finance Club
• Run a small side hustle (lawn care, reselling items, tutoring, etc.)
Choose Smart Classes
• Take business electives (if offered): Intro to Business, Marketing, Accounting
• Stick with advanced math: Algebra, Geometry, and eventually Pre-Calc and Calculus
• If you can, learn intro coding or data science—finance + coding is powerful
Step 3: Learn About Careers & Majors
As you move through high school, start researching:
High-Paying Business + Math Careers
• Investment Banker
• Financial Analyst
• Actuary
• Management Consultant
• Tech Sales (Software/SaaS)
• Entrepreneur (own your own business!)
• Data Analyst in business
Majors That Match Your Interests
• Finance
• Accounting
• Economics
• Business Analytics
• Actuarial Science
• Management Information Systems (MIS)
• Data Science (with a business focus)
Step 4: Explore Online and Real-World Learning
• Watch YouTube channels like Graham Stephan (personal finance) or UpFlip (small business interviews)
• Listen to podcasts like "How I Built This" or "Planet Money"
• Use Khan Academy for economics and personal finance
• Try a summer camp or course on business, investing, or entrepreneurship
Step 5: Stay Curious and Open
• It’s okay not to have all the answers now.
• Try job shadowing in high school—see what real business careers are like.
• Stay flexible: you might discover you like marketing more than finance or analytics more than management.
Optional: Want to Start a Fun Side Hustle Now?
• Sell products on Etsy or eBay
• Walk dogs or babysit (learn to manage your own money)
• Design logos on Canva and sell them
• Track your own finances like a business
Updated
Charlene’s Answer
Hi Ryder,
Great job on being so focused in 8th grade. There are many educational opportunities available to you. Try joining some business focused clubs or groups. Also, consider starting a small online business. This will help you learn about running a business and see if you enjoy it, beyond just making money, like interacting with customers.
Great job on being so focused in 8th grade. There are many educational opportunities available to you. Try joining some business focused clubs or groups. Also, consider starting a small online business. This will help you learn about running a business and see if you enjoy it, beyond just making money, like interacting with customers.