Entrepreneurship in the Digital Age

We all know that the internet is everywhere, in all aspects of our lives; from our bedrooms to lecture halls. However, you may be surprised that not only is the internet becoming increasingly larger, with the Boston Consulting Group’s “Digital Manifesto” stating that by 2016 there will be 3 billion internet users world-wide, (that is over half the world’s population online). The internet-economy is also permeating the job market, with more and more money and opportunities flooding into the digital sector.

But how can we, as students and graduates, get a head start for employment in this diverse market?

The Carnegie Club is one step ahead and has set up the ‘The Carnegie Club Presents: Entrepreneurship in the Digital Age”. This is an event which invites some of the biggest and most influential names in the business come to St Andrews to answer questions and advise students on “how to break the typical grad scheme and inform about the opportunities available in Entrepreneurism,” Transport and Logistics committee member Emma Archibald said.

The list of prestigious guests itself is enough to make the event a success. Head of Events, Hendrik Geiger informs me that panellists include Ms. Neeta Patel (CEO of the New Entreperneurs Foundation) who will be speaking about “becoming your own boss straight out university” and Mr. J. Todd Morley who is the Founder, Chairman and CEO of the G2 Investment Group and also co-founded “Guggenheim Partners LLC, all multi-billion dollar investment funds”.

A personal highlight for Hendrik however is Dr Johannes Bruder, who is the managing director of Rocket Internet, “one of the most successful incubators for internet start-ups world wide”, and will be personally informing students “how you succeed making money from the internet.”

The day itself is not just about the inspirational speakers, however, it is about the students. “[This event] will benefit students looking to pursue a career in any area, offering applicable and transferable skills, relevant to any job,” Emma said.

According to Emma, students can “have a better understanding of the different paths available after university,” which is essential due to the growing job paths in the digital world, after all, “when is there a day when you don’t use the internet?” Hendrik stated.

Both members of the club are so passionate about this event that it is hard not to be enthusiastic. Hendrik reinforces the fact that The Carnegie Club “does this work for the students, and enables them to really take their future into their own hands” and considering the influence the internet has over every individual it is a great opportunity for those wanting to take advantage of this growing market.

Tickets are available from The Carnegie Club website for only £5 and the Carnegie Club encourages you to come along and try something new, as Hendrik said, “Events like this can be a career – or even a life-changer if that is what you choose to make them!”

Images courtesy of The Carnegie Club of St Andrews