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Not just anyone is successful at  

Starting a Business

 . It takes a person with passion, perseverance, and gusto. Want to become that person? Pick up Michael Simmons' book, The Student Success Manifesto. And, no, this isn't some 40-year-old telling you how to succeed in life. A student at New York University's Stern School of business (New York, NY), Michael is only 21 years old, and has already been a keynote speaker, workshop facilitator, and youth entrepreneurship conference panelist.

For him, success begins by writing a life plan in the same way companies have a business plan. "Ask yourself questions you never thought of," he says. "Think of what you want on your tombstone." While the idea may sound morbid, it can help you consider what kind of difference you'd like to make and how your business can better an industry. Also, Michael recommends blending business with school by looking at the resources your institution of higher learning offers. He suggests taking an independent study class in high school and -- here's some pretty unconventional advice -- taking a semester off in college to explore youth entrepreneurship opportunities.

"[Taking time off] is a big learning experience," Michael explains. During his semester off, he wrote the book, attended conferences, accepted speaking engagements, and rode a train cross-country. Naturally, Michael's decision was met with a lot of resistance.

Starting a business means you're going to get some resistance from family and friends. "[Everyone] had strong opinions on why not to do it, but [not one of them] had ever done it," he says. Michael's life plan and desire for success led him back to college, where he is currently developing his own publishing company. Ultimately though, he says success comes down to being true to yourself. "Pursue something you're passionate about -- not what everyone else is doing." You can learn more about Michael's business savvy at www.successmanifesto.com.


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Jennifer Merritt is a frequent contributor to The CollegeBound Network. Learn more about finding a school that's right for you.

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