Reading Reflection No.3

The general theme of Mindset: The New Psychology of Success by Carol Dweck, was that one should acquire a growth mindset. The book focuses on the struggle people face between a fixed and a growth mindset. A fixed mindset is one in which people believe that they cannot change certain aspects of themselves. A growth mindset is described as having the ability to recognize that although one is not the best a certain task, one can become better at it. The book connected with this course because being an entrepreneur is about growing from one's mistakes. An entrepreneur needs to be able to take his or her abilities and recognize that it can the abilities can become better, they are not fixed. For example, at first, I believed I was terrible at interviewing people, but throughout the course I found myself getting better at it. An exercise based on this book would be to have students do a reflection on how they feel they have grown throughout the course and compare what they initially had as a fixed mindset versus what they have as a growth mindset. I did not expect to realize my own fixed and growth mindsets. The book made me think as to why I believe some aspects of  my mindset are fixed while other tend to lean heavily on the growth mindset.  

Venture Concept No.2

 In the United States there is an untapped market in the education of human trafficking. Although most know what human trafficking is and that it exists, it is doubtful that people know the extent of this epidemic. Primarily, the woman are victims. However, forty-five percent of the victims are males. There are organizations that attempt to address the issue, however, many remain uneducated. It is therefore, HUSH, will be the new face of educating people of all demographics about the severity of this issue.

              Unlike other atrocities occurring in society, human trafficking is not represented in the media. The media, whether it be the television or computer social media, does not address the topic of human trafficking. Although parents and teachers may be aware of the situation, the people mostly likely to be victims are not. This is explains the nature of how trafficking goes down. Teenage girls between the ages of twelve and fourteen are often introduced into the second largest crime industry worldwide. Adult figures may be too busy to explain the nature of the problem or oblivious on how big the issue is. It is therefore, HUSH, the human trafficking education organization will help educate those in need. HUSH will be implemented in schools, and begin a national campaign large enough to be of subject on television, Facebook and Twitter.

              Human trafficking is widespread. Human trafficking is everywhere. HUSH will provide hotspot areas with more information and resources than other. Hotspots include San Francisco, California, Portland, Oregon and Miami, Florida. As discussed previously, most victims are female. However, traffickers do not discriminate. This is a situation affecting all people of all ethnicities, races, ages, and religion. Due to trafficking affecting virtually everyone and anyone, the opportunity to conquer this market is widespread. Consumers for HUSH are everywhere nationally, and if done correctly, internationally would follow next. Trafficking is also something that unfortunately will not end; much like drugs, it is a profitable black-market industry. However, with HUSH, education may diminish current crime rates.

              HUSH is a service based business, however, there will be products in order to promote the organization. HUSH is informing people about the dangers of human trafficking, solving a need that perhaps future consumers are not aware of. Shirts, bands, social media campaigns and donations will all contribute to building revenue for the company. Due it have a multibillion dollar industry, creating buzz over human trafficking and creating outrage will not require much effort as opposed to introducing a product into a market. The outcry will form a lot of support because it is not an issue to be taken lightly. In order for HUSH to remain relevant, it will need to remain fresh in consumer minds by newly established commercials, newly developed social media campaigns and partnerships with different kinds of companies promoting the organization.

              Determination and passion are the driving forces behind the HUSH organization. Many people may pursue the market, however, finding a person as outraged and appalled by human trafficking would be difficult. HUSH will be an ongoing process throughout years to come; perhaps in future affairs, HUSH will incorporate solutions to similar problems. To help and educate people of the world they live in will always be the foundation for HUSH and its founder.

      

              The input by other members in the class have contributed to the ideas behind perfecting the HUSH organization. After an interview, it was advised that perhaps HUSH should be implemented in schools. Once this idea was posted to the blog, an overwhelmingly amount of people supported this idea. HUSH originally was “just” going to be a non-profit organization. However, after much consideration this idea proved to not only be a really good one but also a more effective way of reaching the most vulnerable victims. There has been a couple people who have suggested implementing more product use for support to the organization. HUSH has implemented the use of t-shirts, bracelet bands, and cups to promote the organization. However, there was still a demand for more. It is therefore that this part of the business will be part of the “what’s next.” First, HUSH has to establish itself as a reliable and trustworthy organization. Once HUSH has established a name for itself, people will me more willing to buy other products with the organization’s name on it. Words of encouragement never fall short, and everyone seems to agree that the topic of human trafficking should be brought to the light as soon as possible. The support and critique from people has shaped HUSH in being what it currently is, and organization that will be implemented in and out of schools, with products that will support the fight against human trafficking.

              

Final Reflection

Looking back on the posts, I realize that I have grown with this class. Like most people entering something new, I was little to optimistic on certain aspects that this class would bring. For instance, I was initially excited to be out of my comfort zone and interview people. However, I did not enjoy interviewing random strangers. Although interviewing people was not my favorite, now I do not see it much as a big deal as it was in the first instant I had to do it. I enjoyed reading about the aspirations of others and what kind of business they would like to pursue. I do believe that I have moved toward having more of an entrepreneurial mindset, because this class has pushed me to realize that what I want to do id doable...it has in a way already started the process.
For new coming students, I recommend to always stay on top of the assignments. I missed a few easy ones for leaving them last minute and they are going to affect my grade. I would also recommend to do the interviews although they can be a pain.

Making It Real

https://files.acrobat.com/a/preview/9ac8c967-3e17-408e-8078-87a40ff6463f

Above is the link to my resume in relation to this class.

My Exit Strategy

HUSH will be an incredibly important part of my life. It is my mission to educate people on human trafficking and continue to make it relevant throughout the years. It is therefore that I plan to stay with HUSH for as long as I can. HUSH is so important to me and I believe that there are not much people who have passion for it as I do. I think that my exit strategy has only motivated me to find ways to make the organization a successful one.

Celebrating Failure

There were multiple times in which I failed this semester. Primarily, the failures came from interviewing people. Sometimes, people did not want to talk me, while other times the weather was just really bad to go out and find random strangers to talk to. I failed to complete several assignments in which we had to interview people. However, I did manage to interview a few and it is not as bad as I thought it would be. Interviewing people is still not something I enjoy and I believe that this class requires a lot of it. The fact that I failed at this, effects me because I know it will effect my grade, but it is not something that I can go back and change. Therefore, I must continue to move forward and take my loss as is, and learn from this experience and put more effort into things that put me out of my comfort zone.

This picture represents me on the hunt for interviewees. 

Venture Concept No.1

In the United States there is an untapped market in the education of human trafficking. Although most know what human trafficking is and that it exists, it is doubtful that people know the extent of this epidemic. Primarily, woman are victims. However, forty-five percent of the victims are males. There are organizations that attempt to address the issue, however, many remain uneducated. It is therefore, HUSH, will be the new face of educating people of all demographics about the severity of this issue.

              Human trafficking is not represented in the media. The media, whether it be the television or computer social media, do not address the topic of human trafficking. Although parents and teachers may be aware of the situation, the people mostly likely to be victims are not. Teenage girls between the ages of twelve and fourteen are often introduced into the second largest crime industry worldwide. Adult figures may be too busy to explain the nature of the problem or oblivious on how big the issue is. It is therefore, HUSH, the human trafficking education organization will help educate those in need. HUSH will be implemented in schools, and begin a national campaign large enough to be of subject on television, Facebook and Twitter.

              Human trafficking is widespread. Human trafficking is everywhere. HUSH will provide hotspot areas with more information and resources than other. Hotspots include San Francisco, California, Portland, Oregon and Miami, Florida. As discussed previously, most victims are female. However, traffickers do not discriminate. This is a situation affecting all people of all ethnicities, races, ages, and religion. Due to trafficking affecting virtually everyone and anyone, the opportunity to conquer this market is widespread. Consumers for HUSH are everywhere nationally, and if done correctly, internationally would follow next. Trafficking is also something that unfortunately will not end; much like drugs, it is a profitable black-market industry. However, with HUSH, education may diminish current crime rates.

              HUSH is a service based business, however, there will be products in order to promote the organization. HUSH is informing people about the dangers of human trafficking, solving a need that perhaps future consumers are not aware of. Shirts, bands, social media campaigns and donations will all contribute to building revenue for the company. Due it have a multibillion dollar industry, creating buzz over human trafficking and creating outrage will not require much effort as opposed to introducing a product into a market. The outcry will form a lot of support because it is not an issue to be taken lightly. In order for HUSH to remain relevant, it will need to remain fresh in consumer minds by newly established commercials, newly developed social media campaigns and partnerships with different kinds of companies promoting the organization.

              Determination and passion are the driving forces behind the HUSH organization. Many people may pursue the market, however, finding a person as outraged and appalled by human trafficking would be difficult. HUSH will be an ongoing process throughout years to come; perhaps in future affairs, HUSH will incorporate solutions to similar problems. To help and educate people of the world they live in will always be the foundation for HUSH and its founder. 

Elevator Pitch No.3

The Amazon Whisperer

My idea is Service based. Therefore, I will focus on t-shirts that can be made advertising and educating against human trafficking.

• Describe the revenue drivers you currently include in your business concept for this class. Revenue drivers are the different ways you make money. 

T-shirts with human trafficking shirts may be sold. 

• Describe what kind of product offering you believe should be next. What's the nextthing your customers want

Perhaps customers would want something smaller such as a bracelet in order to support the cause. 

• Describe how this "next" thing will enhance your existing product/service offering. Does it improve the user experience, does it increase customer switching costs, does it foster customer loyalty, etc.?

The next thing, will give the company more exposure. It will also cost less, so consumers would be able to support the company more easily.  

• Go to Amazon and try to find a product that is similar to the one you want to offer next. Describe the product. Include a picture of the product.

I can't really apply this to my business model. 

• What are the customer reviews for the product? What, exactly, do customers not like about the product? What do they like about it?
• Describe what design/usability changes you'd make to the product. 

I would have clever slogans on the bracelets as well as ones with different colors. 

• Describe why you think this product would make a good addition to your current product/service offering.

This product will promote the company and help reach new revenue. 

My Unfair Advantage

1. Passion
Value: Not everyone has a drive as strong to start a business
Rare: Not many people have gone after the human trafficking market
Inimitable: Others do not have this erk from within
Non- subsitutable: If there is not passion, businesses lack certainty

2. Knowledge
Value: I do not know a single person that knows about the severity of human trafficking
Rare: Human trafficking is not talked about
Inimitable: People can educate themselves, but don't know the extent to which the problem really exists.
Non-substituable: One has to know the facts about the market being entered.

3. Dedication
Value: I will not give up, until human trafficking becomes something that is talked about
Rare: Not many people are dedicated to this topic
Inimitable: It is something that plays a big part in what I want to do in life
Non-substituable: Without dedication nothing will get done

4. Compassion
Value: It is a non profit, therefore, the focus of the company is to change the way people see human trafficking
Rare: A lot of people don't think victims are victims
Inimitable: As previously mentioned, it's not a common trait for this area
Non-substituable: Compassion for victims is something that will be the foundation for the company.


5. Observant
Value: Picking up on environmental cues is important
Rare: People disregard surroundings
Inimitable: People can learn to be more aware of their environment
Non-substituable: This is a quality that one must maintain in order to keep up with changing markets

6. Friend/Family support
Value: There's nothing pulling me down
Rare: Not always, everyone is on board with what one pursues
Inimitable: You can't choose whether people support you
Non-substituable:

7. Want to educate people
Value: It something that I truly desire
Rare: It's work people are not usually up for
Inimitable: The way I would like it done, is not a common approach
Non-substituable: Education is the way to fix the problem

8. Begin a movement
Value: Ir's time people know what is going on
Rare: Not many have the courage to come out with this
Inimitable: Others can do it
Non-substituable: It's the only way to fix the problem

9. Getting an education
Value: I will me educated in the ways a business works
Rare: People can get an education
Inimitable: Other people can get an education
Non-substituable: Education helps set up a business

10. Desire
Value: Demonstrates dedication
Rare: Not common
Inimitable: It's not common for this topic
Non-substituable: Not common


The most important attribute is passion. I know the dangers of entering this market. There are a lot people that perhaps do not want this information to get out. However, I am determined to make this a big deal.

Reading Reflection No.2

The book "The Art of Social Media: Power Tips for Power Users" demonstrates effective ways in staying relevant when running a business. The book consisted on well thought-up tips in keeping a social media account appealing. The book presented an array of options on how to explore the opportunities given when using social media. The way the book describes taking advantage of the opportunities in social media is much like the advice Professor Pryor gives in the lectures. Finding opportunities in any space and using it toward your advantage in meeting customers' needs is a great part in entrepreneurship. This book gave a lot of advice on how to manage a social media account, it is therefore, that perhaps making a Facebook page of some sort would be a good exercise to engage future students in the technological world. The book gave some tips such as using "mentions" instead of hashtags as a way to promote buzz, as well as using asymmetrical angles to make a picture more exotic, these are examples of little things the book provided that make big differences that I would have never thought of. Overall, the book provided useful information in an area that I had considered myself somewhat if a guru in.

Idea Napkin No.2

1) Me

I believe that in order to make HUSH successful, I need to be passionate for educating people on human trafficking. Based on my other blog posts, I believe that I have demonstrated how much this topic means to me. If this business were to take off, and it will, it will play a major role in my life. Making HUSH happen, would mean opening the eyes of many and promoting change worldwide. It is a lot of responsibility but someone needs to do it.  

2) What am I offering to it to?

I do not think my customers are to be set apart demographically. Human trafficking affects every race, ethnicity and gender. However, I do believe that women, due to being more vulnerable at times, will benefit from the education more than males. The customers of this organization are all, or mostly, under-educated on the topic of human trafficking.


3) Who am I offering customers?

I am offering customers an opportunity to reevaluate their safety. Human trafficking is a multi billion dollar industry, one that needs to be stopped. Although, everyone knows it exists, everyone does not the the extent to which it exists.

4) Why do they care?

Customers care because it is something wrong that is occurring in society. This is a topic that is and has been flying under the radar for years. It is time to expose the truth and make it a big deal.

5) What are my core competencies?

This is something that strive in doing. I want to educate people on the effects of human trafficking. I am passionate about this topic. I know the amount of responsibility and the dangers it can bring. However, it is important to educate people. We cannot keep living in ignorance. I have true passion to bring this issue to the light.



These five elements complement each other very well. Knowing that a change needs to be done is crucial in making this organization successful. Educating people is important and people react to injustices that have not been brought to light.

The feedback I have received throughout these couple of weeks consists of expanding the way I reach people. It was brought up to me in an interview that maybe I should incorporate educating children in the K-12 area. This was beneficial advice because it allows teens to be aware of these dangers, especially young girls. Most of the feedback received were positive in the sense of encouragement to keep moving forward with this movement. I also was advised on talking more about the tangibles that would be offered in order to promote the organization. This feedback was incorporated into the second idea napkin in the sense that it is creating structure to how I will go about building HUSH.

Elevator pitch No.2

This second elevator pitch reflects the feedback I have been receiving throughout the course. I learned from comments and interviews that maybe educating children still in the K-12 system would be very effective. I think this was important advice because a lot of times these programs do get the attention of parents and talk about issues become widespread.

My Customer's Avatar

My main customer for HUSH, would be any woman or girl. HUSH is based around educating people on human trafficking, and although 45% of these victims are male, the majority are female. Due to a lot of children being victims to human trafficking, ideally, the customer would be a busy mom in her thirties. Perhaps this mom of 2-3 kids cannot take or pick up her children from school leaving the kids to walk a certain amount of distance. A mom who regularly watches the news, and can be progressively informed about the dangers of sex trafficking, would be ideal because she cares about the safety of her kids.

Apart from being a woman, I do not share much with this ideal customer. I believe that the issue of human trafficking is something that parents, especially moms would want to have more information on after realizing how much of an issue it is. By educating enough mothers, and creating enough talk among them, a movement can then begin.

DOLÉ

Dolé


Living in Miami, I thought it would be fun to combine Hispanic slang words. I combined "dale," meaning either okay, yes, or let's go and "olé," which means let's go.  These words are basically synonymous, therefore when I used it and told people what it meant they, at first looked at me strange, but then understood the concept. Around my friends and family, it become more of an inside joke than anything. The NBA finals just finished, and I was rooting for the Warriors. When the Warriors lost, my cousin called me saying  something along the lines of "Cavs won, DOLÉ." Not only did I find it funny that the word is now a thing, but it helped to remind me to complete this blog post. 

Halfway Reflection No.1

This class have definitely proven to be different than any other class I have encountered. Checking up on course material regularly is a must because one has to schedule assignments throughout the week according to what they may require. Interviews, for instance, may need more than one day; there are some days where finding people to talk to is difficult. When people reject to talk to you, almost always I feel like giving up. However, this must be overcame because the assignment has to get done and it s training oneself for the future. Once I do get people to talk to me, even if it is not the 10 to 15 minutes that Professor Pryor desires, it gives me a sense of accomplishment, because it means I am getting there. 

3 tips: 

-Maintain perseverance

-Memorize questions you might want answered in interviews

-The more you put yourself out there, the better off you'l be

Need Awareness and Information Search

https://soundcloud.com/user-645238584/segment-2

https://soundcloud.com/user-645238584/voice-160612-21

I could only interview two people this week and the interviews did not last long. Finding people to interview was difficult especially because the weather in Miami was rainy all week long, and people just wanted to go about their days without getting wet. 

I realized that the market for educating people on human trafficking is widespread. Many people are under-educated on the subject matter. However, I think because my goal is to educate and promote education, talking to people for more than a couple minutes proves to be difficult. What is essentially trying to be done is create a movement within the population. 

Reading Reflection No.1

Berry Gordy was an incredible entrepreneur. He created an empire based on what he loved, music. Not only was he able to establish MoTown, but he did so in time where African Americans were not rising to such powerful levels of business. Gordy, continuously tried saving his empire and did not give up until he finally came to grips that he did not want to do it anymore. Gordy, did not fall out of love with music, but at the time he was just doing business for the sake of business and not for his love of music. To leave behind what he considered to be "his baby" not only because he was losing money but because he was not in it as much as before, is the most admirable and disappointing thing about his journey. The strength to give up MoTown is truly incredible but disappointing because it was and continues to be a monumental part of music. Gordy's undeniable skillful ear led his to success. His gradual learning of the music industry and experiencing relationships with several offers led him to be the face of MoTown. Hard work to Berry Gordy can be defined as the phrase "just keep going." He was a man that hustled his way into becoming a legendary man.

If I were to ask Gordy any two questions it would be: 1)How did he find the courage to fight through the struggle of racism, and rejection?
2) What does he think he missed out the most while pursuing his dream?

Idea Napkin No.1

1) Me

I am a passionate college student trying to open the eyes of others about problems there are seldom talked about. I am hard working, and just as it is a blessing and a curse I am stubborn until I achieve what I want. I believe that if I were to start HUSH, an organization that educates people about human trafficking that will in turn diminish trafficking popularity, will change my life for the better. I will be making a difference.


2)What am I offering to customers?

I am offering a service that will educate people about the second largest crime industry in the world. This will make millions of people more cautious and keep more them safe and less likely from being slaves.


3) Why do they care?

They care because it is a sickening crime. Imagine a well known teen in your life disappearing from society because they have been taken into the black market of human trafficking. Most importantly, this crime does not lean on one gender specifically. Although, the majority of victims are women (55%) and whooping 45% are men.

4) What are my core competencies?

The second I learned about this issue, my freshman year in college (I am a junior now), I knew I had to be part of a change. The drive was so intuitive that my career mindset shifted. Becoming a doctor was still in mind but becoming part of something bigger became my ultimate goal. I have an incredible passion like no other and that is what will drive HUSH into becoming a big name.


The passion for this issue is present. The elements of the concept fit well. The challenge is grabbing the attention of people and going against a 32 billion dollar market. It is very evident that human trafficking is wrong, however, it is not talked about. Educating people and making them believe that a change can be made is the ultimate challenge, everything else fits well together.

Tweaking the Innovation

___________________________________________________________________

| Tangible                                   Augmented

| - Items with HUSH name         - Special  recognition for donation

|   -Bracelets                                  ($100 +) 

|   -Shirts                                          -Specialized complemetary items

|   -Hoodies

|

|Core (Benefit)

| -For a good cause

|   -Preventing people for getting trafficked through education 

|

Elevator Pitch No.1

I am proposing a stop to human trafficking through the educating people with a non-profit organization, HUSH. This crime industry is second largest falling behind drugs. There is an opportunity to start a movement and end this horrific crime.

My Solutions

1) Rising Gas Prices

Gas Prices are largely determined by supply and demand. If consumers were to buy electric cars then gas prices will probably decrease. Tesla has released their patents in making a more fuel efficient car. With an app or an educational program, one can educate the public to move away from gas. In Miami, a better public transportation could be useful for this too, signing petitions to get the county to pay attention to this problem.

2) Transgender inequalities

There should be a nation wide campaign to educate people on the transgender process and eliminate discrimination. Just as there were campaigns for African Americans to gain equality, transgenders and any other human should have this right.

3) Infrastructure failure

An app can be developed to advise people which bridges in the nation need maintenance. This can serve as a safety measure as well a potential adviser for traffic if renovation is taking place.

4) More houses are being sold

An app can serve this opportunity. People can specify what they want in a house and the app can then link them to a realtor. The app may provide information on how to negotiate a contract with the bank as well.

Looking for Opportunity

1. Gas prices keep rising
Driving around has made me realize that gas prices are increasing weekly. At the beginning of the year, gas, in Miami was about two dollars. Now, the price is about $2.39 per gallon. After having been so cheap, I think now consumers are beginning to really believe that it is a really unstable market. This therefore leads to opportunities in the eco-friendly automobile industry or an increase in bus taking. Bus taking in Miami, as previously mentioned in my blog, is a problem. Therefore, this can lead to an expansion in opportunity to talk to the county in rearranging the bus system. People without cars will likely benefit with opportunity or those with low budgets that can't afford electric/hybrid cars.

2. Boycotting of transgenders

Several states, such as North Carolina have proposed an anti transgender law. The problem mainly arises from people in the state not wanting transgenders to use whatever bathrooms they feel comfortable with. Here lies an opportunity for a social movement. I believe that the people in the states with the anti-transgender law, people throughout the nation, and worldwide could benefit from this opportunity. Young adults are likely to be the ones to participate in such movement.


3. Infrastructure in the United States is taking its toll

On a recent CNN article, it was estimated that about 60,000 bridges need maintenance. The opportunity arises in educating people which are the bridges that need repairs and perhaps building a business that can serve this U.S need.

4. House selling is increasing among the nation

This creates a positive outlook for those looking into the Real Estate business.  The economy, although still weak, seems to be growing. This in turn, indicates that people are perhaps more comfortable in making larger investments such as buying a house.

Forming An Opportunity Belief

Miami is not a place where people typically walk to get to their destination. Most people have cars. However, to those that do not have cars, it can be difficult to get around. There is not enough public transportation in Miami; specifically in Kendall. I speak from prior experience. I attempted to talk to people for more than a few of minutes but this task proven to be much more difficult than I had anticipated. I was probably asking too many questions at a fast pace. It is therefore I will provide a personal example as to why I believe there is not sufficient public transportation in this area. 

A couple of years ago, I did not have a car. Also, and unfortunately, a couple of years ago I had surgery on my right knee. I had to get around through public transportation to go from school to a rehabilitation center. I would have to take two bus to get there. Typically, I would get out of school at 10:50 am. The first bus would pass by every hour...at X: 40. I would therefore have to wait almost an hour to catch the next bus. Afterwards, when I would get off to my second stop, I would have to wait 40 minutes for that bus to get there and take me to therapy. All this waiting time does not include the 10 to 15 minutes I would spend walking to either my destinations or bus stops. After therapy I would wait half an hour to catch my first bus and then another half an hour for another bus to take me home. Needless to say, there is a lot of time wasted waiting for a bus in Kendall. This is typical of almost any route. Some routes are more efficient by having limited stops but because they are not wasting time as much they compensate, by costing more. 

Although, I failed in my interviewing skills, I did learn that a better system for public transportation is needed. All three of the participants agreed with that principle. 

https://soundcloud.com/user-645238584

Identifying Local Opportunities

1. Massive Expansion of high schools planned in Northeast Miami-Dade

Superintendent of Miami Dade, Alberto Carvalho, plans to expand public education. Overall, this is a positive ordeal. However, a portion of locals have been complaining over the increase in traffic this may implicate. Another issue that rose form this was discrimination towards race and class in the area. The complaints have been coming from wealthy whites who live in the area. The bulk of the problem is for the superintendent of Miami Dade County Public Schools. Ultimately, he will do what is best for the community which is likely the foundation of new school programs. Carvalho will have to take some heat for this but all in goof faith. 

http://infoweb.newsbank.com.lp.hscl.ufl.edu/resources/doc/nb/news/15CF1BC72CFF5920?p=AWNB


2. Roadwork to slow commutes on State Roads 836, 826, 874

There will be more traffic formed during Thursday to Saturday morning this week. The hours to where roadwork will be done are between 10pm and 5am. Roadwork is common in Miami and there never seems to be an end to it. Although the roadwork will not be occurring in particularly busy hours, sometimes the roadwork requires the closing of important lanes. This creates problems for locals and non-locals (seeing that Miami is a tourist spot) trying to reach their destination.

http://infoweb.newsbank.com.lp.hscl.ufl.edu/resources/doc/nb/news/15CFA0610E77B858?p=AWNB


3. Miami Beach makes plans for traffic, crowds of Memorial Day Weekend

Miami-Dade County is preparing for the Memorial Day Weekend where large crowds always flea to the Miami Beach area. Traffic, along with parking, is already a problem in the Miami Beach area and the county is trying different approaches in combating the greater traffic Memorial Day weekend brings. This problem proves to be becoming increasingly challenging for the Miami-Dade as more people seem to be attending events at the beach.

http://infoweb.newsbank.com.lp.hscl.ufl.edu/resources/doc/nb/news/15CF1BC74DCBA978?p=AWNB


4. Key West Cracking Down on Vacation Rentals

A man was caught illegally renting his place on the Airbnb website. A license is required to rent short term housing for fewer than 30 days in Key West. The main issue here, though not clearly stated in the article, people may get kicked out from renting from other without licenses if caught by the local association. This is a problem because those people will not get refunded for their money and have no place to stay afterwards.

http://infoweb.newsbank.com.lp.hscl.ufl.edu/resources/doc/nb/news/15CF70282D760408?p=AWNB


5. Study: Hispanics lag in boardroom

Not enough Hispanics are making it to new directors in U.S companies. This trend seems to be becoming common among minorities in the Unites States. The opportunities of becoming board members seem to be going to those that have had such positions before or have had similar ones. This is problematic for Hispanics because they are perhaps not taking advantage of their opportunities or are not being given the same amount of opportunities as others.


http://infoweb.newsbank.com.lp.hscl.ufl.edu/resources/doc/nb/news/15CF4B53C28658D8?p=AWNB

Bug List

1.       Traffic on N. Kendall Drive Miami, FL at 8 am

Why is there traffic?

At 8 am, many people are on their way to work their 9 am to 5 pm job. However, Kendall has a traffic problem either way.  There is no east to west highway, and Miami is becoming more populated than it already is.

2.       Calling Comcast to fix a problem with the bill

Why is it a hassle?

The way Comcast has designed its call center is perhaps designed to be efficient rather than effective. Calling to fix a singular problem may take up to an hour trying to talk to the right person over the phone.

3.       The wait time to get attended by a general physician

Why the wait?

Perhaps the people at the front desk overbook the physician’s schedule. Another possibility as to why the wait time is so bad is because doctors schedule to see patients for only a couple of minutes. However, some patients require more time than what doctors plan to spend on them.  

4.       The Chicken Cesar Salad is more expensive than a Steak burger at Steak n’ Shake

Why does the salad cost more?

The Chicken Cesar Salad may lack in popularity, and therefore have a higher price (Supply and Demand).

5.       The racial injustices occurring across the United States

Why the racial injustices?

People still differentiate on whether a person is black or white, and do not see that person as just a person.  

6.       Donald Trump as the Republican nominee

Why is Trump a nominee?

The Republican Party did not think Trump would get as far as he did and let him be.  Also, socially, maybe citizens are not as advanced as once thought, voting for a guy who has a problem with a lot of minorities.

7.       The pollution left on Miami Beach

Why is there pollution on the beach?

People are inconsiderate to the environment and are lazy. People may also believe that just littering one plastic bag will not do anything, however, one plastic bag can by confused as jellyfish to a sea turtle.

8.       The cost of getting an education

Why is getting an education expensive?

Founders of colleges and universities were selfishly smart in making getting an education a business, leaving millions with student debt.

9.       The Wi-Fi when there’s heavy rains in Miami (It’s almost hurricane season)

Why is Wi-Fi so bad when it rains?

The rain may interrupt server connectivity making it slow. The technology to prevent this does not exist yet or is too expensive.

10.   The victimization of Cuba perpetuated by Miami news stations

Why do Miami news stations bring up Cuba so much?

There are a lot of Cubans in Miami who escaped harsh conditions and news stations like to get reactions from their audience. Cuba, however, is better off than a lot of countries in Latin America such as Bolivia and Nicaragua (can be seen in Per Capita Income and Human Growth Index)

11.   The morning shows on the radio

Why are there morning shows on radios?

Radios try and compete with one another’s morning radio shows, and try to give listeners a nice start to their day. Radio morning shows are sometimes useful in knowing about current events, although, its focus is primarily pop culture.

12.   The hip pop industry producing music without meaning or they all say the same thing Ex: Panda by Designer, Work by Rihanna ft. Drake)

Why the meaningless music in hip hop?

Artists are possibly focused on what is going to sell rather than immersing themselves in the art of lyricism. “I got broads in Atlanta” is not lyrical, is derogatory towards women and is not grammatically correct.  In Rihanna’s “Work,” it sounds as though she is mumbling and the whole song is her basically saying “work” the whole time. It is also the fault of consumers that artists keep producing these songs because consumers keep buying the albums and making these songs appear at the top of the music charts.

13.   The decrease in physical activity in the youth due to technology.

Why is technology interrupting youth physical activity?

Technological companies have virtualized about every physical activity there is. When the Wii came out, it presented the game “Wii Sports” where there was baseball, tennis, bowling and boxing. Although, a good idea for a rainy day, these virtual games will not burn nearly as many calories as kid would playing baseball outside. There are also a lot of distractions with new apps that children may find more appealing than going out and running.  

14.   The cost of any insurance

Why is insurance so expensive?

Insurance companies strive to profit the max they can and in turn end up legally scamming people for their money. For instance, I pay $800 for full coverage car insurance every six months. I have never been in any kind of car accident, and do not get any of that money back. It is illegal and irresponsible to be without car insurance because one never knows when an accident may occur. However, the rates are outrageously expensive just as they are in Health Care. Health Care insurance is a bigger scam. One pays a monthly invoice but when seeing a doctor there is a payment of a co-payment. Health Care is a billion dollar industry and is the root of why it is so expensive.

15.   What the media hypes as news

Why does the media choose what it does as news?

The answer as to why the media chooses to hype the rescue of a dog versus coral bleaching happening in Florida Keys is dumbfounding. Dogs are cuter and may bring a bigger audience, and be the reason why the media chooses it over coral bleaching, leaving locals uninformed of true issues.

16.   The fad of asking for money on the streets

Why are people asking for money on the streets?

There was a time when people asking for money on the streets was genuine until it was reported that some of these people were frauds. People were making money off of kind hearts by simply taking their money and not having to report taxes from it. Now, at least in Kendall, there are people asking for money along all of N. Kendall Drive.

17.   Grade-school teacher’s salary

Why are teacher salaries low?

Teachers are simply under-appreciated. Although teachers make up most of government jobs, they do not get paid well for their service. Most teachers enjoy their job, they accept the pay they are currently receiving because of it.

18.   Parking in Downtown Miami

Why is parking bad in Downtown Miami?

Not many parking locations were made in the Downtown area of Miami. Parking in Downtown Miami is very limited and may lead to paying $20 for a parking space.

19.   The way that the public school system teaches students to pass standardized test but not how to learn

Why are there standardized tests?

In a desperate attempt to catch up to counties such as China, the United States in general, has created standardized exams to test the knowledge of its students. This has led to memorizing subject matter rather than learning and retaining information.

20.   That menstrual cycles are considered disgusting

Why are menstrual cycles perceived as disgusting?  

Menstrual cycles are not talked about. Semen, although is a bodily fluid exiting a sex organ, is not readily perceived as disgusting but rather as “a guy thing.” This in part may be due to current hip hop culture talking about semen as being normal. Menstrual cycles are still hush about in modern society.

This assignment was challenging at first. However, after passing the eighth bug, more ideas came to mind. Finding out what bugged me was a matter of taking some time to sit and actually think about daily issues in society and the environment in which I live in. 

My Entrepreneurship Story

              My paternal grandmother was the closest experience of entrepreneurship I have had. She was brought up by a family in great poverty in countryside of Nicaragua. However, through perseverance she was able to move to the city and work different restaurant jobs. Working her way through waitress to manager, she was able to grasp important business concepts. My grandma, saved up money and was later able to open up her own restaurant, “El Jardin Central,” which is still up and running. My grandmother, of course, had to face many struggles and do several trail-and-errors to acquire the position she did. The need of discovering what meals customs were favoring and what were the busiest times for the restaurant were important in helping the business succeed.

              After viewing the first day’s lecture of this class, I hope to be more comfortable in being out of my comfort zone. At first, I thought this class was going to be similar to that of a regular one. A required course where I would get the pleasure of listening to two to three hour long lectures and reading long chapters; however, I am glad it is going to be slightly different. Business, as has been expressed several times to me, is about taking risks. Sometimes these risks will pay off while other times things will not work out. I hope to find myself believing that I can accomplish anything as I did when I was kid.

Does it Work?

Testing blog post 1,2,3...