On the creative side of things, I'm currently in the process of making new items and planning out what's next. My main focus for now is on banners/garlands, but I might venture out to other items in the near future.
Tuesday, December 30, 2014
December Extra Blog
This month I finally created my Etsy shop: The Strawberry Donut. I am still working on all of the details. There's a lot to do, such as creating a shop banner, writing an about page, and including shop policies.
Sunday, November 30, 2014
November Extra Blog!
This month, my mentor has been very busy with her small business, since Christmas time is approaching. Because of this, she hasn't had much time to work with me, so I've been helping out my mom with her Etsy shop. She makes jewelry (mostly necklaces and earrings) and sells it in her shop, OneDutchButtercup.
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| Opulent Rococo Earrings from OneDutchButtercup |
I've mainly been helping her out with listing new products, taking photographs, and tagging items. Next up, we want to rephotograph many of her items to make sure they're of good quality. We also want to add photos with models to show what the jewelry looks like on. I definitely plan on continuing to work with my mom, because I'm really enjoying it at the moment!
Thursday, November 13, 2014
Blog #10: EQ
Content
1. Review this. Confirm by stating "I reviewed the rule of three for writing an EQ."
I reviewed the rule of three for writing an EQ.
2. Review the following EQs and
Tell us if each meets the rule of three.
Tell why they do or don't.
a. What is the most important factor in healthy weight loss?
I believe that this question does meet the rule of three because it is not yes or no, it is subjective and therefore needs an opinion, and it also makes sense.
b. What is most important to securing a conviction in a criminal investigation?
I think this question doesn't meet the rule of three mainly because the wording is a little off. If the words were switched around, I think the EQ would be fine because it is specific.
c. What is most important in creating a hairstyle that best satisfies a customer?
I don't think this question meets the rule of three because it is not specific enough - it doesn't even say what field of work they are focusing on.
d. How can an anesthesiologist best treat chronic pain?
This EQ seems to satisfy the rule of three because it is clear and specific, gives lots of opportunity for research, and is worded nicely.
3. Based on your review of the rule of 3 and your experience with assessing four EQs, please write another draft EQ for your senior project. The senior team will be meeting with students shortly for EQ revision and approval; you are expected to bring your research notebook to that meeting with your EQ draft written inside in pencil.
1. Review this. Confirm by stating "I reviewed the rule of three for writing an EQ."
I reviewed the rule of three for writing an EQ.
2. Review the following EQs and
Tell us if each meets the rule of three.
Tell why they do or don't.
a. What is the most important factor in healthy weight loss?
I believe that this question does meet the rule of three because it is not yes or no, it is subjective and therefore needs an opinion, and it also makes sense.
b. What is most important to securing a conviction in a criminal investigation?
I think this question doesn't meet the rule of three mainly because the wording is a little off. If the words were switched around, I think the EQ would be fine because it is specific.
c. What is most important in creating a hairstyle that best satisfies a customer?
I don't think this question meets the rule of three because it is not specific enough - it doesn't even say what field of work they are focusing on.
d. How can an anesthesiologist best treat chronic pain?
This EQ seems to satisfy the rule of three because it is clear and specific, gives lots of opportunity for research, and is worded nicely.
3. Based on your review of the rule of 3 and your experience with assessing four EQs, please write another draft EQ for your senior project. The senior team will be meeting with students shortly for EQ revision and approval; you are expected to bring your research notebook to that meeting with your EQ draft written inside in pencil.
What is the most effective way for a small business to build an online web presence to promote their business?
Monday, November 3, 2014
Blog #9: Lesson 1 Reflection
1. Positive Statement
What are you most proud of in your Lesson 1 Presentation and why?
I'm most proud of the fact that I referenced my research to back up my points/ideas.
2. Questions to Consider
a. What assessment would you give yourself on your Lesson 1 Presentation (self-assessment)?
AE P AP CR NC
b. Explain why you deserve that grade using evidence from the Lesson 1 component contract.
For the Professionalism part of the presentation, I think I wasn't as strong in speaking/making eye contact, etc. In the Justification of Foundation portion, I think I did a decent job in using examples and referencing my research and mentorship. So, overall I think I earned an AP.
3. What worked for you in your Lesson 1?
I said all of the information that I wanted to, and addressed the requirements.
4. (What didn't work) If you had a time machine, what would you have done differently to improve your Lesson 1?
I would probably just practice more. Public speaking isn't my strong suit, so perhaps practicing more would have helped.
What are you most proud of in your Lesson 1 Presentation and why?
I'm most proud of the fact that I referenced my research to back up my points/ideas.
2. Questions to Consider
a. What assessment would you give yourself on your Lesson 1 Presentation (self-assessment)?
AE P AP CR NC
b. Explain why you deserve that grade using evidence from the Lesson 1 component contract.
For the Professionalism part of the presentation, I think I wasn't as strong in speaking/making eye contact, etc. In the Justification of Foundation portion, I think I did a decent job in using examples and referencing my research and mentorship. So, overall I think I earned an AP.
3. What worked for you in your Lesson 1?
I said all of the information that I wanted to, and addressed the requirements.
4. (What didn't work) If you had a time machine, what would you have done differently to improve your Lesson 1?
I would probably just practice more. Public speaking isn't my strong suit, so perhaps practicing more would have helped.
Friday, October 31, 2014
October Extra Post
This month I have been focusing on doing more research to prepare for starting my online business. I've come across two new books, "Mobile influence : the new power of the consumer" by Chuck Marin, and "Engagement marketing : how small business wins in a socially connected world" by Gail Goodman, which have both been very helpful so far in learning more about the world of small businesses:
Now that I've got lots of research under my belt, I'm almost ready to actually start selling. Next month, I'm planning to open my Etsy shop and start listing items, just in time for the holiday season!
Thursday, October 16, 2014
Blog #8: Research and Working EQ
1. What is your working EQ?
2. What is a possible answer to your working EQ? Please write the answer in thesis format. Small business owners should consider using multiple platforms to get their business out into the world, such as Facebook, Twitter, and blogs.
3. What is the most important source you have used that has helped you come up with an answer to your working EQ?
So far, the most important source I've used is the book "It's Your Biz" by Susan Solovic. It covers all the basics of starting a small business, and includes lots of information on how social media marketing is very important. It goes over how different websites or methods yield different results.
4. Who is your mentor, or where are you doing mentorship, and how does what you are doing relate to your working EQ?
What is the most effective way for a small business to build an online web presence to promote their business?
2. What is a possible answer to your working EQ? Please write the answer in thesis format. Small business owners should consider using multiple platforms to get their business out into the world, such as Facebook, Twitter, and blogs.
3. What is the most important source you have used that has helped you come up with an answer to your working EQ?
So far, the most important source I've used is the book "It's Your Biz" by Susan Solovic. It covers all the basics of starting a small business, and includes lots of information on how social media marketing is very important. It goes over how different websites or methods yield different results.
4. Who is your mentor, or where are you doing mentorship, and how does what you are doing relate to your working EQ?
I recently found a new mentor, Danielle Richey. She is a successful Etsy shop owner who sells her own art. I plan on helping her out with the shop, as it relates directly to my independent component. She uses various social media as well to promote her shop, so I think working with her will help me realize how they all work.
Tuesday, September 30, 2014
Blog #7: Independent Component 1 Approval
1. Describe in detail what you plan to do for your 30 hours.
2. Discuss how or what you will do to meet the expectation of showing 30 hours of evidence.
3. And explain how what you will be doing will help you explore your topic in more depth.
My plan is to start an Etsy shop of my own to get first hand experience of what it's like to actually start a business. Etsy is similar to Ebay in that anyone can create a shop, and sell their own crafts. To fill my 30 hours, I'm going to create my own mini 'business plan', make the products, put them online, and most importantly, try to sell them. I haven't pinpointed exactly what I am going to make and sell, but that will be a part of making my business plan. I'm also planning on making a blog related to the shop, to serve as another platform to reach more people. This way I can update the blog on posts related to crafting and link back to my Etsy shop.
2. Discuss how or what you will do to meet the expectation of showing 30 hours of evidence.
I am going to have digital evidence of most of my work. Since everything is online, I will have my Etsy and blog linked. Also, I'll use photos to document the process of making the actual items for the shop.
3. And explain how what you will be doing will help you explore your topic in more depth.
I think starting my own business will help me to better understand my topic, because it will make it more personal to me and I will be directly experiencing what it's like. Since I'm doing an online shop, I will learn more about how online marketing works, and how technology plays a part in business.
September Extra Post
This month, I came across a podcast about business that was pretty interesting. It's a This American Life podcast called "It's Not the Product, It's the Person." I thought it fit perfectly with my senior project, because it's all about how selling yourself and your business is one of the most important parts of having a business - even more so than the actual product you are selling.
I've always known that marketing is a huge part of business, but before I started this whole project, I had no idea how important it was to be a people person. Whether you're just starting a small business, or you've owned one for years, a necessary skill to have is to be able to use your personality to grab potential customer's interest and pull their attention in. Perhaps you don't have to be good with people, but it seems like the more likable you are, the more successful your business will be.
For example, in this podcast, they open on a story about a little girl, Asia Newson, who has her own business. She walks down the street, approaches people, and pitches her whole idea on a daily basis. You would think this business tactic would be nothing special; plenty of kids go around trying to sell their various baked goods and creations. However, this girl has created a whole brand for herself. Asia uses her enthusiasm and friendliness to get people's attention and in turn, has a lot of success selling her products.
On my own, I've been researching mostly about online marketing and using the Internet to get your business out there. But in this podcast, they focus more on the little things that make selling your business in person effective. It was helpful to hear the stories of various businesspeople and how they've gotten their businesses out there. It's all about interacting with others to communicate a whole business brand and message.
I've always known that marketing is a huge part of business, but before I started this whole project, I had no idea how important it was to be a people person. Whether you're just starting a small business, or you've owned one for years, a necessary skill to have is to be able to use your personality to grab potential customer's interest and pull their attention in. Perhaps you don't have to be good with people, but it seems like the more likable you are, the more successful your business will be.
For example, in this podcast, they open on a story about a little girl, Asia Newson, who has her own business. She walks down the street, approaches people, and pitches her whole idea on a daily basis. You would think this business tactic would be nothing special; plenty of kids go around trying to sell their various baked goods and creations. However, this girl has created a whole brand for herself. Asia uses her enthusiasm and friendliness to get people's attention and in turn, has a lot of success selling her products.
 |
| Asia Newson, 10-year old entrepreneur |
On my own, I've been researching mostly about online marketing and using the Internet to get your business out there. But in this podcast, they focus more on the little things that make selling your business in person effective. It was helpful to hear the stories of various businesspeople and how they've gotten their businesses out there. It's all about interacting with others to communicate a whole business brand and message.
Thursday, September 18, 2014
Blog #6: Second Interview Preparation
1. Who is your mentor and where do they work?
Mentor: Barbara Cheatley
Where they work: Barbara Cheatley Antiques
(though I may need to find a new mentor)
Where they work: Barbara Cheatley Antiques
(though I may need to find a new mentor)
2. What five questions will you ask them about their background?
- How did you get started?
- Did you to to school for business?
- Did you get a lot of help along the way?
- Were there any problems you encountered?
- How did you grow your business?
Tuesday, September 9, 2014
Blog #5: Mentorship and Research Reflection
1. Mentorship question: Describe your experience in how you found your mentorship? If you haven't found one yet, describe your experience so far in the search of a mentor.
I haven't yet found my mentor. I have considered working with my summer mentor, but I think I need to find someone who is more available. I have been looking for people in the same area. My family has some connections to various small business owners, and I'm still in the process of trying to contact them and decide what type of business would be best for my mentorship. Hopefully I can narrow my search down soon. I might just end up having two mentors if necessary.
2. Research question: What has been your most important article you have read so far and why?
I haven't yet found my mentor. I have considered working with my summer mentor, but I think I need to find someone who is more available. I have been looking for people in the same area. My family has some connections to various small business owners, and I'm still in the process of trying to contact them and decide what type of business would be best for my mentorship. Hopefully I can narrow my search down soon. I might just end up having two mentors if necessary.
2. Research question: What has been your most important article you have read so far and why?
So far, my most helpful article has been "Small Business Marketing: Why Maintaining a Digital Presence is Important." I'm slowly realizing that with technology and small business, the Internet is really important for getting your name out there and connecting with potential customers. This article introduced me to some of these ideas and has helped my senior project take a bit more shape. I am more confident now that online marketing will be a significant chunk of my researching and project.
Sunday, August 31, 2014
August Extra Post
After completing my summer mentorship, I've been thinking about which direction to go with my senior project. "Small businesses" is obviously a pretty broad topic, so I've been wanting to narrow in on the specifics. Of course there are tons of types of small businesses out there, but I'm focusing more on places to eat, shop, etc. - the entertainment side of things. If I were to end up having my own little business in the future, I'd be interested in having something like a bakery, or a little boutique; something along these lines:
Once I figured out which kinds of businesses to focus on, I wanted to decide on how to approach my project. I decided on technology in small businesses, since it seems to be a pretty big part of running your own business. I figured this would give me a lot to research, so for now, my working EQ is "How can a small business best use various types of technology to its advantage?" My plan is to focus especially on the Internet. One, because who doesn't love the Internet? - and two, because almost every business uses it in some way. It's perfect for getting your business out into the world, housing reviews and important information, and maybe even providing online shopping. So, as of right now, that's the whole plan for my senior project.
 |
| (an adorable little bakery) |
 |
| (some displays in the gift store I mentored at - Barbara Cheatley's) |
Once I figured out which kinds of businesses to focus on, I wanted to decide on how to approach my project. I decided on technology in small businesses, since it seems to be a pretty big part of running your own business. I figured this would give me a lot to research, so for now, my working EQ is "How can a small business best use various types of technology to its advantage?" My plan is to focus especially on the Internet. One, because who doesn't love the Internet? - and two, because almost every business uses it in some way. It's perfect for getting your business out into the world, housing reviews and important information, and maybe even providing online shopping. So, as of right now, that's the whole plan for my senior project.
Wednesday, August 27, 2014
Blog #4: Interview Preparation
1. Who do you plan to interview? Why?
I am planning on interviewing the owner of the small business I mentored at this summer. I think she would be a good person to talk to because she has been running her store for quite a long time, and has seen how technology has evolved over the years.
2. You have to ask 5 questions. What additional questions do you plan to ask? Ask open-ended questions.
I am planning on interviewing the owner of the small business I mentored at this summer. I think she would be a good person to talk to because she has been running her store for quite a long time, and has seen how technology has evolved over the years.
2. You have to ask 5 questions. What additional questions do you plan to ask? Ask open-ended questions.
- What do you think makes a small business successful?
- How do you use the Internet to benefit your business?
- How does technology play into the success of your business?
Thursday, August 21, 2014
Blog #3: Topic Choice and Working EQ
1. List your topic here: Small Businesses
2. Write a question that helps to focus your research this month:
How can a small business best use various types of technology to its advantage?
3. Post the working bibliography (WB) on the right hand side of the blog and share it so anybody can view it.
Link is on the right sidebar or click here.
2. Write a question that helps to focus your research this month:
How can a small business best use various types of technology to its advantage?
3. Post the working bibliography (WB) on the right hand side of the blog and share it so anybody can view it.
Link is on the right sidebar or click here.
Monday, August 18, 2014
Blog #2: Summer Mentorship
Literal:
1.
(Know) Using google doc (drive) link a log of specific hours and a
description of your duties
2. What is the contact name & number of where you volunteered?
Eva Grello
Barbara Cheatley Antiques
(909) 621-4161
3. (Need to know) What questions were raised because of the 10 hours
of experience? List them.
- Exactly how specific does the senior project topic need to be?
- Will researching technology in small businesses give me enough to make into a whole project, or should I focus on something more specific?
- What kinds of technology are absolutely necessary in a small business?
- Does the type of business determine what technology is needed?
- Do businesses really need to use advanced technology or is it just easier?
Interpretive:
4. What is the most important thing you gained from this experience?
Why?
I think the most important thing I gained from my mentorship was
getting first hand experience of what it's like to be part of a small
business. I picked up on things that I usually overlook. It gave me a
new perspective, seeing how much work goes into the job and how different businesses do things very uniquely.
Applied:
5. What is your senior project topic going to be? How did what you
did help you choose a topic? Please explain.
My topic is going to be small businesses, and most likely the way
they use technology. When I was doing my summer mentorship hours, I
saw how technology played such a big role in the business side of
things. The place I was mentoring at is pretty old school, and doesn't even have a cashier. I thought it would be interesting to see how that affects the business, compared to other businesses equipped with more advanced technology.
Sunday, June 1, 2014
Blog #1: 2-Hour Presentations
1.
What presentations did you see?
- Lupe Lara - Music Performing and Promoting
- Regina Rizo - Teaching Elementary
- Sarah Solar - Goalkeeping
- Paola Rodriguez - Suicidal Youth
- Symphony Moreno - Photography
- Jessica Hartlein - Bikram Yoga
- Kimberly Gallardo - Personality Disorders
- Vanessa Machuca - Microbiology
- Alyssa Casey - Piano
- Isaac Salas - Engineering
- Christine Navarro - Biochemistry (Biofuels)
- Elizabeth Valle - No Kill Rescue Shelters
- Gabriela Murillo - Advertising
- Xavier Quiroz - Firefighting
- Cheyenne Capener - Organic Architecture
- Marilyn Sambo - Domestic Violence
2.
What questions do you have that haven't been answered about the
senior project? This can be about the senior project in general, any
components or about a presentation topic you saw or what they said.
- What are the independent components?
- How many interviews do you need?
- Can you do more than one activity in your presentation?
- Is it okay to switch mentors/have more than one?
3.
What has the most important part of the senior project based on what
you are seeing in the 2-hour presentations?
From watching the senior presentations, it seems like coming up with your essential question and answers is the most important thing. Everything else seems to revolve around this, so you have to think of a good question, and back it up with three answers. It also seems like the mentorship is the best way to find the answers, so it's important to find a mentor who can help you out with that.
From watching the senior presentations, it seems like coming up with your essential question and answers is the most important thing. Everything else seems to revolve around this, so you have to think of a good question, and back it up with three answers. It also seems like the mentorship is the best way to find the answers, so it's important to find a mentor who can help you out with that.
4. What topic are you considering doing and why?
I am thinking about doing small businesses as my topic. In the future, I think it would be cool to have my own little business, so I'd like to learn more about how that works. If not this topic, I'm also considering doing animal shelters, because I love animals.
5. What are you doing for your summer mentorship?
For my summer mentorship, I'm planning on going to a few small businesses in Claremont. Right now, there's a bakery, a cheese shop, and an antique/gift store that I have in mind, though I'm not quite sure which one yet. My back up plan is to volunteer at an animal shelter and/or humane society.
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