Street Smarts Versus Book Smarts

[Dale Osborn]

Too many companies have been very successful after being started by High School drop outs. Others have success by individuals dropping out of college to start their business. Others who have a 4 or 6 year degree end up flipping burgers. Does a degree really matter in the "real world"? What is your outlook on this?

[David Egger]

For every high school dropout that 'made it' there are 100 that have a food stamp card. It obviously does happen, but all you hear about is the few times it does, and the multitudes that failed miserably aren't on the news.

If you want to be an entrepreneur, find a top entrepreneurship program. You'll get a solid mix of accounting, finance, marketing along with specialized coursework on making pitches to investors and evaluating opportunities. You'll also have loads more solid connections, potential investors and an alumni network to work from. And if sh** hits the fan with your venture, you've got a solid base of skills plus a degree to fall back on while you put your life back together for a second attempt.