10 answers
Isaiah
Student
Ontario
5
Questions
Updated
1178 views
What courses should I take in College and High School if I'm preparing to start a business?
I'm a sophomore in high school, and I'm contemplating what I should take in high school and college to prepare myself to start a business. I won't state what my business will be, but it's a one-stop shop for all things green to help make it easy for brands to be eco-friendly, and to make it even easier for customers to shop with total peace of mind. It's a new idea that's popped into my head, something that I'm passionate about, given my mom's constant regulations on what I put in my body. Any advice as to how to start and what classes to take?
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10 answers
Roel Ramon
Product Management and Development
91
Answers
Dallas, Texas
Updated
Roel’s Answer
Great question! Here's a helpful guide for courses to take in high school and college if you want to start a business, especially one focused on green solutions:
In High School:
- Business/Entrepreneurship: Learn the basics of business, marketing, and management.
- Economics: Understand how markets operate.
- Environmental Science: Discover sustainability and eco-friendly practices.
- Math: Focus on statistics and algebra for business analytics.
- Computer Science: Get familiar with coding, web design, and digital tools.
- English/Communications: Develop strong writing and speaking skills.
In College:
- Business Administration or Entrepreneurship: Learn core business principles and startup skills.
- Marketing: Study branding, digital marketing, and consumer behavior.
- Finance/Accounting: Understand money management, budgeting, and investing.
- Sustainability/Environmental Studies: Dive deep into eco-friendly practices and regulations.
- Supply Chain Management: Learn how products move from source to customer efficiently and sustainably.
- Psychology/Sociology: Understand what motivates your customers.
- Technology/Information Systems: Explore e-commerce, databases, and business tech tools.
Additional Tips:
- Join clubs like DECA or environmental groups.
- Seek internships or volunteer opportunities related to business or sustainability.
- Network with entrepreneurs and mentors.
- Start gaining real-world experience early by combining classroom learning with hands-on projects or small ventures. You can do it!
In High School:
- Business/Entrepreneurship: Learn the basics of business, marketing, and management.
- Economics: Understand how markets operate.
- Environmental Science: Discover sustainability and eco-friendly practices.
- Math: Focus on statistics and algebra for business analytics.
- Computer Science: Get familiar with coding, web design, and digital tools.
- English/Communications: Develop strong writing and speaking skills.
In College:
- Business Administration or Entrepreneurship: Learn core business principles and startup skills.
- Marketing: Study branding, digital marketing, and consumer behavior.
- Finance/Accounting: Understand money management, budgeting, and investing.
- Sustainability/Environmental Studies: Dive deep into eco-friendly practices and regulations.
- Supply Chain Management: Learn how products move from source to customer efficiently and sustainably.
- Psychology/Sociology: Understand what motivates your customers.
- Technology/Information Systems: Explore e-commerce, databases, and business tech tools.
Additional Tips:
- Join clubs like DECA or environmental groups.
- Seek internships or volunteer opportunities related to business or sustainability.
- Network with entrepreneurs and mentors.
- Start gaining real-world experience early by combining classroom learning with hands-on projects or small ventures. You can do it!
Thank you, Roel!
Isaiah
Jerome Dees Jr.
Sales Professional and Networking Expert
818
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
Jerome’s Answer
I would recommend taking a business class or two. I would also take a business math class. If you plan to have employees, taking a psychology class or two help helped me understand people better. There are also groups like NFTE which will help you develop a business plan and potentially compete for prize money to help fund your business in the future.
I had no idea about the prize money! Thanks for the info.
Isaiah
Rick Kneisley
Retired Investment Broker and Investment Sales Manager
33
Answers
Georgetown, Texas
Updated
Rick’s Answer
Isaiah,
I admire your confidence and the thoughtfulness behind your idea. Passion tied to a real problem is exactly where good businesses begin.
Others here have done a solid job addressing your question about course selection, so I won’t repeat what’s already been covered. Instead, I want to talk about something that often gets overlooked early on but ends up determining whether a business survives or stalls: capital.
Over the course of my career, I’ve watched many capable, motivated people move forward with strong ideas without fully understanding what it costs to turn an idea into a functioning, sustainable business. Passion is essential, but it doesn’t pay for legal setup, insurance, infrastructure, or the months of operating expenses that usually come before revenue becomes reliable.
Even a modest startup typically requires money for proper legal and accounting structure, insurance protection, a physical or digital operating environment, people to help execute the work, and enough cash to cover expenses while the business finds its footing. That early growth period is where most new ventures feel the most pressure in my experience.
One reality that surprises many first-time founders is that banks rarely lend meaningful money to brand-new businesses without collateral or a proven track record. That means capital usually has to come from personal savings, investors, or assets, things that take time and planning to build.
There’s another lesson I feel strongly about sharing. I’ve seen well-intentioned entrepreneurs borrow startup money from friends or family, only to discover that when a business struggles, those relationships can suffer in ways that are hard to repair. The financial risk is one thing; the emotional cost can be much higher.
I’m not sharing any of this to discourage you. I’m sharing it so you can prepare wisely. As you take the classes recommended by others and build your knowledge, make financial understanding part of your education as well. Learn how cash flow works, how businesses are funded in stages, how founders reduce risk early on, and how to build experience and savings over time.
If you combine your passion for this idea with realistic financial preparation, you’ll give yourself a far stronger chance of success.
An old saying in my business: Dream big, but plan even bigger.
Rick
I admire your confidence and the thoughtfulness behind your idea. Passion tied to a real problem is exactly where good businesses begin.
Others here have done a solid job addressing your question about course selection, so I won’t repeat what’s already been covered. Instead, I want to talk about something that often gets overlooked early on but ends up determining whether a business survives or stalls: capital.
Over the course of my career, I’ve watched many capable, motivated people move forward with strong ideas without fully understanding what it costs to turn an idea into a functioning, sustainable business. Passion is essential, but it doesn’t pay for legal setup, insurance, infrastructure, or the months of operating expenses that usually come before revenue becomes reliable.
Even a modest startup typically requires money for proper legal and accounting structure, insurance protection, a physical or digital operating environment, people to help execute the work, and enough cash to cover expenses while the business finds its footing. That early growth period is where most new ventures feel the most pressure in my experience.
One reality that surprises many first-time founders is that banks rarely lend meaningful money to brand-new businesses without collateral or a proven track record. That means capital usually has to come from personal savings, investors, or assets, things that take time and planning to build.
There’s another lesson I feel strongly about sharing. I’ve seen well-intentioned entrepreneurs borrow startup money from friends or family, only to discover that when a business struggles, those relationships can suffer in ways that are hard to repair. The financial risk is one thing; the emotional cost can be much higher.
I’m not sharing any of this to discourage you. I’m sharing it so you can prepare wisely. As you take the classes recommended by others and build your knowledge, make financial understanding part of your education as well. Learn how cash flow works, how businesses are funded in stages, how founders reduce risk early on, and how to build experience and savings over time.
If you combine your passion for this idea with realistic financial preparation, you’ll give yourself a far stronger chance of success.
An old saying in my business: Dream big, but plan even bigger.
Rick
BIG help and many great points. Thank you for taking your time to write this, sir!
Isaiah
Yashvi
Student
0
Questions
Updated
Yashvi’s Answer
Prioritize AP Statistics and Environmental Science in high school. You need to understand data and toxicity to vet products so your "peace of mind" promise is backed by facts. Take speech or debate to learn how to pitch; as a founder, you are always selling.
In college, Industrial Engineering is a powerful choice. It teaches you to design efficient systems and eliminate waste, the core of sustainability. Supplement this with Accounting to master cash flow and Behavioral Economics to learn why people actually buy green. Use your mom’s standards as your North Star. If you build something that satisfies her rigor, you will naturally earn the trust of your customers.
In college, Industrial Engineering is a powerful choice. It teaches you to design efficient systems and eliminate waste, the core of sustainability. Supplement this with Accounting to master cash flow and Behavioral Economics to learn why people actually buy green. Use your mom’s standards as your North Star. If you build something that satisfies her rigor, you will naturally earn the trust of your customers.
George Zou, M.S.
Academic Advisor
36
Answers
Fort Wayne, Indiana
Updated
George’s Answer
If you want to start a business one day, especially one focused on helping brands and customers be more eco-friendly, the classes you take in high school and college can really help you build a strong foundation. Since you are only a sophomore, you have plenty of time, and the good news is that you do not need to know everything right now. In high school, you should focus on taking a balanced mix of classes that build practical skills and help you think clearly. Math classes like algebra, statistics, and even calculus are important because business owners deal with numbers every day, such as prices, costs, profits, and budgets. English classes are just as important because they teach you how to write clearly, explain ideas, and persuade people, which is essential for marketing, emails, presentations, and contracts. Science classes, especially biology, chemistry, or environmental science, are very helpful for a green business because they help you understand how products affect the body and the environment. Social studies classes like economics and government can teach you how markets work and how rules and regulations affect businesses. If your school offers electives like business, entrepreneurship, accounting, computer science, or marketing, you should strongly consider taking them. These classes give you early exposure to how businesses actually run. In college, you can go deeper and be more focused. Majors like business administration, entrepreneurship, economics, finance, marketing, or supply chain management are all great options. Since your idea involves eco-friendly products, you may also want to take courses in environmental science, sustainability, public health, or nutrition to understand what makes a product truly “green.” Classes in data analysis, statistics, and information systems are useful because modern businesses rely heavily on data to make decisions. Communication classes, psychology, and sociology can help you understand customer behavior and build trust with people who care about ethical shopping. No matter what major you choose, taking accounting, finance, and marketing classes is very important because these are core business skills.
Beyond classes, you should also look for internships, part-time jobs, clubs, or competitions related to business or sustainability. These experiences teach you things that textbooks cannot, such as teamwork, problem solving, and leadership. You can even start small now by researching eco-friendly brands, learning about certifications, or creating a simple business plan just for practice. Overall, the best preparation is a mix of strong academic skills, real-world experience, and curiosity. If you focus on learning how money works, how people think, how the environment is affected, and how to communicate clearly, you will be well prepared to turn your passion into a successful business in the future.
Beyond classes, you should also look for internships, part-time jobs, clubs, or competitions related to business or sustainability. These experiences teach you things that textbooks cannot, such as teamwork, problem solving, and leadership. You can even start small now by researching eco-friendly brands, learning about certifications, or creating a simple business plan just for practice. Overall, the best preparation is a mix of strong academic skills, real-world experience, and curiosity. If you focus on learning how money works, how people think, how the environment is affected, and how to communicate clearly, you will be well prepared to turn your passion into a successful business in the future.
Thanks for the advice.
Isaiah
Jeff Mattern
Business Operations Manager
8
Answers
San Jose, California
Updated
Jeff’s Answer
Start your business with a small, simple version of your big idea. This will be your proof of concept. Keep costs low and focus on learning as much as you can. There are many great suggestions on which classes to take, so keep those in mind as you work toward your dream.
Thanks for your encouragement!
Isaiah
deborah kania, bfa, mba
Marketing
84
Answers
New Bern, North Carolina
Updated
deborah’s Answer
As an entrepreneur and business educator, I really like Roel's answer. I would add an important course or training: Customer Experience and CRM (customer relationship management). The #1 reason why businesses are successful is the trusted customer relationships they create and maintain (loyalty!). Also, working on soft skills is as important as the technical aspects of business ownership. One more bit of advice remain humble (ask for help), be willing to test and learn, and stay determined, disciplined and persistent. Good luck!
Thanks so much. I will look back at Roel's answer asap!
Isaiah
Morgan Adams
Healthcare Administration
27
Answers
Winston-Salem, North Carolina
Updated
Morgan’s Answer
If you’re preparing to start a business, focus on courses that build strong foundations in communication, math, economics, and technology. In high school, prioritize math (especially statistics), English and public speaking, economics, personal finance, and any available business, marketing, accounting, or computer science classes. In college, useful majors include business administration, finance, marketing, economics, computer science, engineering, or communications, while key courses should cover accounting, finance, marketing, strategy, business law, and leadership. Regardless of major, developing practical skills like financial literacy, sales, problem-solving, data analysis, and communication, combined with real-world experience through internships, clubs, or side projects, is more important than any single class.
Thank you so much!
Isaiah
Aisha Taylor
Mortgage Closing Specialist
494
Answers
Detroit, Michigan
Updated
Aisha’s Answer
Hi Isaiah,
Building a Foundation for an Eco-Friendly Business
Your vision is truly inspiring! Your enthusiasm for sustainability and understanding of eco-friendly products is a fantastic start. Here’s some advice to help you prepare for entrepreneurship:
High School Courses to Focus On
Business & Entrepreneurship Basics:
- Introduction to Business
- Economics
- Accounting or Financial Literacy
- Any entrepreneurship courses
Supporting Skills:
- Advanced math for financial planning
- English and communication for effective writing and speaking
- Computer Science for e-commerce and digital marketing
- Environmental Science to align with your goals
Electives to Consider:
- Marketing or consumer behavior
- Web design or basic coding
- Public speaking or debate
College Coursework
Core Business Degree Path:
- Major in Business Administration or Entrepreneurship
- Study accounting and financial management
- Learn marketing and consumer behavior
- Understand operations management
- Explore business law and ethics
Complementary Minors/Courses:
- Environmental Science or Sustainability Studies
- Supply Chain Management for sourcing eco-friendly products
- Data Analytics for insights into customer behavior
- Digital Marketing or E-commerce
Don’t Overlook:
- Internships at startups or green companies
- Business plan competitions
- Networking events and entrepreneurship clubs
Beyond the Classroom
- Start small projects or side hustles to gain practical experience
- Follow leaders in the sustainability field
- Research your market and competitors
- Build connections with people in sustainability and e-commerce
- Read books on entrepreneurship and business strategy
Your passion and solid business skills will set you up for success. You're showing great initiative by planning this early. Good luck on your entrepreneurial journey!
Building a Foundation for an Eco-Friendly Business
Your vision is truly inspiring! Your enthusiasm for sustainability and understanding of eco-friendly products is a fantastic start. Here’s some advice to help you prepare for entrepreneurship:
High School Courses to Focus On
Business & Entrepreneurship Basics:
- Introduction to Business
- Economics
- Accounting or Financial Literacy
- Any entrepreneurship courses
Supporting Skills:
- Advanced math for financial planning
- English and communication for effective writing and speaking
- Computer Science for e-commerce and digital marketing
- Environmental Science to align with your goals
Electives to Consider:
- Marketing or consumer behavior
- Web design or basic coding
- Public speaking or debate
College Coursework
Core Business Degree Path:
- Major in Business Administration or Entrepreneurship
- Study accounting and financial management
- Learn marketing and consumer behavior
- Understand operations management
- Explore business law and ethics
Complementary Minors/Courses:
- Environmental Science or Sustainability Studies
- Supply Chain Management for sourcing eco-friendly products
- Data Analytics for insights into customer behavior
- Digital Marketing or E-commerce
Don’t Overlook:
- Internships at startups or green companies
- Business plan competitions
- Networking events and entrepreneurship clubs
Beyond the Classroom
- Start small projects or side hustles to gain practical experience
- Follow leaders in the sustainability field
- Research your market and competitors
- Build connections with people in sustainability and e-commerce
- Read books on entrepreneurship and business strategy
Your passion and solid business skills will set you up for success. You're showing great initiative by planning this early. Good luck on your entrepreneurial journey!
Thank you so much Aisha! I will definitely start checking out to see what my High School offers.
Isaiah
Siva Kann
VP of Products & Technology
31
Answers
Cincinnati, Ohio
Updated
Siva’s Answer
Hello Isaiah,
There are already a lot of good answers here about what courses to take, and those are all helpful. I want to add a different perspective.
If you are serious about starting a business, the real question is: "what are you waiting for?"
Over the past five years of my startup journey, I learned firsthand what it means to build a business — starting with nothing more than an idea. You can read all about swimming, but the best way to learn is to get into the water.
Classes will help, but entrepreneurship is learned mostly by doing. You don’t need to wait until college — you can start building the muscle now, even at a small scale. Here are a few practical strategies to prepare yourself and get started:
1. Validate your idea : Do real research. Talk to potential customers. Understand the problem you are trying to solve and whether your solution truly fits. This will teach you a lot.
2. Create a simple business plan : May be a good chatgpt prompt could help explore this. You don’t need anything fancy. Just clearly outline Your offering, Who your customer is, the competitive landscape, your business model, how you would go to market, and what are your biggest risks. This process sharpens your thinking fast.
3. Start a small-scale experiment: Test your idea in a limited way — even part-time. A pilot, a prototype, or a small online presence (social media) can give you real feedback and confidence.
Doing these things will give you clarity, motivation, and direction. Once you start, you’ll naturally feel more motivated to learn whatever skills or classes you need .
Wish you the best!
There are already a lot of good answers here about what courses to take, and those are all helpful. I want to add a different perspective.
If you are serious about starting a business, the real question is: "what are you waiting for?"
Over the past five years of my startup journey, I learned firsthand what it means to build a business — starting with nothing more than an idea. You can read all about swimming, but the best way to learn is to get into the water.
Classes will help, but entrepreneurship is learned mostly by doing. You don’t need to wait until college — you can start building the muscle now, even at a small scale. Here are a few practical strategies to prepare yourself and get started:
1. Validate your idea : Do real research. Talk to potential customers. Understand the problem you are trying to solve and whether your solution truly fits. This will teach you a lot.
2. Create a simple business plan : May be a good chatgpt prompt could help explore this. You don’t need anything fancy. Just clearly outline Your offering, Who your customer is, the competitive landscape, your business model, how you would go to market, and what are your biggest risks. This process sharpens your thinking fast.
3. Start a small-scale experiment: Test your idea in a limited way — even part-time. A pilot, a prototype, or a small online presence (social media) can give you real feedback and confidence.
Doing these things will give you clarity, motivation, and direction. Once you start, you’ll naturally feel more motivated to learn whatever skills or classes you need .
Wish you the best!