Iowa Lakes students selected for Okoboji Entrepreneurial Institute

Four students from Iowa Lakes Community College will participate in this summer’s Okoboji Entrepreneurial Institute(OEI).

“I thought by signing up for the institute, it would be a great opportunity and experience to gain information, meet new people and take a step out of my comfort zone,” stated Hailey Derrickson of Ruthven, one of the students chosen. “I hope by attending this institute, it will give me experience and knowledge when looking to transfer colleges and finding a job, as well as putting me a step ahead of everything.”

The conference will be Aug. 5-10 at the Iowa Great Lakes. Participants attend educational seminars on entrepreneurship and work in teams to complete a computer simulation to start a company. Attendees also have a chance to network with some of northwest Iowa’s finest entrepreneurs as well as earn three college credits.

Students attending the conference include Derrickson, an accounting major; Hayley Albee, of Spencer, who is also pursuing accounting; Emily Baker, of Spencer, studying business; and Zachary Westemeyer, of Spirit Lake, who is seeking a Game Design and Development degree.

Albee, who learned about the institute from an instructor, has had the thought of owning a business in the future.

“I hope to get my foot in the door for a potential career and learn more insights of owning a business,” said Albee.

“I hope to gain greater knowledge skills in starting a business,” stated Baker, who wants to learn more and prepare before starting a small business of her own, hopefully within the next year.

Westemeyer, who also learned about the institute from an instructor, hopes to gain a deeper understanding of business practices by participating in the institute.

The Okoboji Institute is a cooperative effort of the State Board of Regents, the Iowa Department of Economic Development, the Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Centers at the University of Iowa, Iowa State University and University of Northern Iowa as well as the Iowa Lakes Corridor Development Corporation. Students from Iowa Lakes Community College, Buena Vista University, UNI, Iowa State and Iowa participate.

 

For More Information:

Lecia Berven, Accounting Specialist Professor, at 712-362-839