Students learn about business world at MUW

COLUMBUS, Miss. -- If Emily Jones' career as a forensic pathologist doesn't work out, she is getting a jump-start on Plan B.

Thirteen-year-old Jones of Jackson is at Mississippi University for Women this week learning about the business world.

Business Week is a six-day residential program designed to promote an understanding and appreciation of America's free enterprise system among rising eighth, ninth and 10th graders in Mississippi.

Jones and her cousin decided to attend Business Week this summer after hearing about the program last year.

"I'm hoping to learn about the business field," she said, noting that her dream is to become a forensic pathologist. However, if that plan does not work, Jones will look to business as a second career choice.

Jones and about 80 other participants will get a good start at as they manage their mock businesses.

Upon arrival at Free Enterprise Village, students are assigned to a company with 10 to 15 other students. Each company has two leaders who serve as company advisors during the week. Students in each company elect a company president and other officers, select a name for their company and develop a strategy for making their company prosper.

By using a computerized management simulation game provided by Junior Achievement, Business Week students manage their companies and make decisions. The company realizing the most profit is recognized at the closing banquet.

Andrea Cottongin, 14, of Tupelo, learned about the program through her aunt, Julie Hussey, who is a 1995 W graduate.

"I've always wanted to be in business management. So, I decided to give it a try," she said. "I want to learn more about business, so it will help me in the future."

14-year-old Trae Camp of Mantachie decided to attend Business Week after learning about it from his computer discovery teacher.

"I'm hoping to learn about how the American economy works," he added.

In addition to learning about business, participants learn how to network as they interact with other students and hear presentations from business leaders.

Fifteen-year-old Kristi Dismukes of Columbus said, "I'm really getting a chance to meet a lot of people from across the state, and I'm learning about business."