Javon Draft Portfolio

BA 400 Portfolio

By Javon Ogbeide

APRIL 13, 2015

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Table of Contents

Personal SectionResume 02

AcademicsCourse List 03Honors Seminar Reports 05General Education Report: Is Religion Hip 23General Education Report: What Comes First Society or Societal Norms? 25General Education Report: Biology and Culture is Life 26

Community Involvement Leadership Report: Leadership Starts Here! 27Leadership Report: Leadership Continues! 28Academic Responsibility: SDSU Awaits You All! 29

Field Learning Experiences Business Internship Report: In the Field! 30Professional Meeting Reports: Get Professional Ready! 31Professional Meeting Reports: Meet SOLO Eyewear 32Field Trip Report: Voy Al Roma 33

Improvement ActivitiesImprovement Reports: Communication is Key 35Improvement Reports: Bella Roma! 37

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Javon Ogbeide5540 Lindo Paseo Apt 4San Diego, CA 92115

(626) [email protected]

______________________________________________________________________________OBJECTIVEBusiness Management major seeking a role with a socially responsible company to aid in the management/marketing goals and development of employees.

EDUCATIONSan Diego State University Bachelor of Science in Business Management May 2015

Minor in Interdisciplinary Studies GPA: 3.66 Mortar Board, Phi Kappa Phi, Toastmaster, Business Honors Program

EXPERIENCESolo EyewearEvents & Marketing Intern September 2014 – December 2014

Effectively presented and marketed Solo’s product and brand through the acquired knowledge of brand management and product awareness

Configured an online presence through the media of blogging and social media updates Overseen event management success as well as identified events that matched the mission of Solo

Kohl’s Department Store May 2014 – July 2014 Store Manager Intern

Responsible for giving exemplary customer service while driving sales Increased sales in my department by 3% through setting smaller incremental goals for my team Identified hiring needs and conducted recruitment of new associates, showing good faith in efforts

to broaden diversity Shadowed District manager and learned the operations and fundamental plan of District manger

San Diego State University Black Business Society (Founder) San Diego, CAVice President of Marketing and Communications Spring 2014 – Spring 2015

Conceptualized and implemented a tactical marketing strategy to achieve marketing targets Created a Marketing committee to efficiently position marketing strategies in all networks Lead the Direct Marketing, Public Relations, Advertising, and Online Marketing efforts. Lead the organization in cross functional communication in innovative ways

San Diego State University Student African American Brotherhood San Diego, CAPresident Fall 2013 – Spring 2014

Developed leaders by establishing goals, outcomes, and purpose Formulated and implemented the strategic plan that guides the direction of the organization Achieved membership growth and retention by 25% from prior year Created organization's vision, mission, and direction

Aztec Initiative Mentorship San Diego, CAMentor Fall 2013 – Present

Established goals for students and execution plans for four year success Instrumental in helping first-time students succeed both socially and academically at SDSU

INTERNATIONAL EXPERIENCE Winter Semester Abroad in Rome, Italy Winter 2013 – 2014

Learned to establish rapport quickly with individuals in an unfamiliar environment through embraced cultural differences.

mailto:[email protected]

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Functioned efficiently with a high level of ambiguity

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Course List

Fall 2011FA11 AFRAS 170A AFRO-AMERICAN HISTORY FA11 ECON 101 PRINCIPLES OF ECONOMICS

FA11 GEN S 100A USEM:PRESIDENTL SCHOLARS FA11 HONOR 100 INTRO TO HONORS FA11 HUM 101 INTRO TO HUMANITIES FA11 RWS 100 RHETORIC WRITTEN ARGUMENT FA11 STAT 119 ELEM STATISTICS BUSINESS

Spring 2012 SP12 MATH 120 CALCULUS FOR BUS ANALYSIS

SP12 MIS 180 PRINCIPLES INFO SYSTEMS SP12 REL S103 HON:AMER REL DIVERSITY SP12 RWS 200 RHET WRITTEN ARG CONTEXT SP12 SOC 101 HON: INT SOC STDY SOCIETY

Fall 2012FA12 ACCTG 201 FINANCIAL ACCOUNTING FUND

FA12 ECON 102 PRINCIPLES OF ECONOMICS FA12 GEOL 100 PLANET EARTH FA12 HIST 101 WORLD HISTORY FA12 HONOR 413 HON:SOCL PRBS CULT&ENVMNT

Spring 2013 SP13 ACCTG 202 MANAGERIAL ACCTG FUND

SP13 BIOL 100 GENERAL BIOLOGY SP13 BIOL 100L GENERAL BIOLOGY LAB SP13 FIN 240 LEGAL ENVIRONMENT OF BUS SP13 B A 290 BUSINESS COMMUNICATIONS SP13 SPAN 101 INTRO TO SPANISH I

Fall 2013 FA13 B A 300 ETHICAL DEC MAKING IN BUS

FA13 B A 400 BUSINESS HONORS SEMINAR FA13 FIN 323 FUNDAMENTALS OF FINANCE FA13 MGT 350 MGT & ORG BEHAVIOR FA13 MIS 301 STATISTIC ANALYS FOR BUS FA13 MKTG 370 MARKETING FA13 REL S356 HON: HIP HOP & RELIGION

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Spring 2014 SP14 AFRAS 170B AFRO-AMERICAN HISTORY

SP14 B A 400 BUSINESS HONORS SEMINAR SP14 HONOR 275 HON SEM: VIVACE CLUB SP14 MGT 353 CREATIVITY & INNOVATION SP14 MGT 358 FUNDMNTLS OF ENTREPNRSHP SP14 MGT 460 BUSINESS PLAN DEVELOPMENT SP14 MGT 475 LEADERSHIP IN ORGS

Fall 2014 FA14 ANTH 402 DYNAM BIOCULT DIVERSITY FA14 B A 400 BUSINESS HONORS SEMINAR

FA14 B A 404 SMALL BUSINESS CONSULTING FA14 MGT 401 BUSINESS INTERNSHIP FA14 MGT 405 INTNL BUS STRAT & INTEGRA FA14 MIS 302 INTRO OP & SC MGT FA14 PSY 340 HON: SOCIAL PSYCHOLOGY

Spring 2015 SP15 B A 400 BUSINESS HONORS SEMINAR SP15 MGT 444 BUS ETHICS& CORP GOVRNC SP15 MGT 455 SOCIAL ENTREPRENEURSHIP SP15 RWS 305W WRITNG IN VARIOUS SETTNGS

HONORS SEMINAR REPORT

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Fall 2013

Global, National, and Local Events and Their Relationship to Business

Introduction: Overall State of the Economy and the Business Environment

With the world’s largest economy, the United States of America has taken a step back this year by registering its lowest index score since the year 2000 according to the 2013 index. The US’s index score is 76, which has gone down only slightly (by 0.3 points). An index score of 76 puts The United States at an economical state of being mostly free and to be completely free a country needs to register a score of at least 80. Although the US only took a 0.3 point loss, this loss is still felt in many sectors of the economy. These sectors that have waned are monetary freedom, business freedom, labor freedom, and fiscal freedom. Even entrepreneurs’ growth has been stagnant due to the ever-more-bloated government and a trend toward cronyism, which has seemed to make networking much more of a necessity than ever before. This has been the fifth consecutive year that there has been a loss in economic freedom for the US. According to its index score the US is ranked 10th worldwide, and 2nd out of three countries in North America, which still keeps the United States well above the world and regional averages. Some quick statistics to show where the US is at more specifically is a GDP (PPP) of $15.1 trillion, with a 1.7% growth, a 0.5% 5-year compound annual growth, and $48,387 per capita. Unemployment rates are 7.9%, inflation (CPI) is at 3.1%, and Federal Direct Investments (FDI) Inflow are at $226.9 billion.

Global EventsCook Islands, a Paradise of Untouchable Assets

Cook Islands, which many of the rich call Paradise Islands, is a home away from home for many wealthy people all over the world. This Island can be thought of as a lawsuit proof bank for the wealthy to stash their beloved assets from any spouse (or soon to be ex), patients, clients or anyone they may have wronged in any way. The Cook Islands are a global innovator in offshore asset-protection trusts, through laws formulated to shield foreigners’ assets from legal claims in their home countries. For some time now many have been using offshore accounts in the Cayman Islands, Switzerland and the British Virgin Islands to keep their assets safe from the American government, but what is unique about the Cook Islands is that the long arm statue of The US doesn’t reach them, so if a plaintiff were to win a lawsuit they would have to fly half way around the world to the Cook Islands and plead their case again before a Cooks Court under Cooks law to collect on assets the defendant had in a Cooks account. This is a serious issue because this safety net is undermining the American and other countries judicial system of making people accountable for the debts to society.

This is imperative for the business environment because large corporations are beginning to stash their assets at Cooks assuring themselves safety from lawsuits. This makes it easier for companies to partake in fraudulent practices, knowing that the plaintiffs will not be able to collect on their lawsuits. Also for individuals in business fields such as accounting and real estate developers who face many lawsuits on average will be excited about offshore accounts such as these. They will be able to do their job duties without the fear that one major error

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could send their careers spiraling down into an economic state where all their assets are stripped away from them.

Samsung: Uneasy in the Lead

Samsung, the $288 billion company has been doing extraordinary this year in regards to many metrics; some would say Samsung is the top brand in electronics. Samsung has posted $190 billion in sales last year, which is about the same sales as Microsoft, Google, Amazon and Facebook combined (all powerhouses and great companies). Samsung shipped about 215 million smartphones last year, which is about 40% of the worldwide total, which is very impressive. Interbrand, a marketing consulting firm, has ranked Samsung as the eighth-most-valuable brand in the world. Samsung’s strategy to control its entire supply chain has given it a sustainable competitive advantage over its competitors. Samsung makes chips, display panels and many other electronic parts, and then builds its own smartphones and other devices. Even some of Samsung’s competitors like Apple buy chips from Samsung, which helps Samsung profit off its competitors. This vertically integrated supply chain allows Samsung to respond quickly to market changes and be the first to profit. With all these great things happening at Samsung, their CEO only had a few words to say to his employees, “You must do better.”

From a broad aspect what Samsung is doing effects the business environment for companies and corporations and through a narrow lens employees are affected too. Many of Samsung’s competitors such as Apple, Sony, and Panasonic may begin rethinking their supply chain management structure. These companies are seeing Samsung reap the benefits of controlling a completely vertically integrated supply chain, which may have these companies seeking that same opportunity to be more profitable. If some of these large competing companies did change their supply chain management this could displace many manufacturers, which could lead to many people losing jobs and manufacturers going out of business.

For employees working at some of these major companies like Apple, Sony, Microsoft, Google, Amazon and Facebook; their job tasks may become more difficult. Samsung’s CEO words to his employees that “[They] must do better,” will reverberate through all companies attempting to gain some of Samsung’s market share and profits. Companies competing with Samsung will be telling their employees the same thing and pushing them to their limits in this monopolistic competitive market. So for those employees who choose to work at some of these top-tier electronic corporations, they will be pushed to work harder since the market leader is making their employees work harder.

National EventsGM Gives a Woman the Keys to Drive Its Future

GM Motors has announced its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Marry Barra. This is a monumental moment for women in the automotive industry, which has been a man’s world since the start of this industry. Barra is the first female CEO in the automotive industry and this is a big surprise as she beat out other qualified men for the position. This move by GM

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may be used as their new competitive edge to show they support independent women in power.

This event changes the business environment for women. This strategic move by GM has shown there is no executive position reserved for men. Women can now feel more confident pursuing any position and will start to take on more upper management leadership roles. From a company’s perspective that is attempting to target the female audience a move similar to GM may be in call. If this move by GM Motors proves successful it would not be a surprise to see more companies making upper management decisions more easily accessible to women.

USDA Steps Up the Fight to Save Florida's Oranges

The citrus industry is in a state of emergency, because citrus greening. Citrus Greening is a disease that is wiping out orange production in Florida and has been doing so since 2005 when it was introduced from an Asia import. Citrus greening makes the fruit bitter and unmarketable and this disease threatens to wipe out America's production of oranges, grapefruits and lemons. This disease has cost the US $4 billion and 6,000 jobs and the USDA believes the orange crop will be down 9 percent from last season. This is the second straight year that citrus production has dropped and the lowest citrus harvest in Florida in nearly 25 years. The USDA has already disbursed $250 million combating citrus greening, and will be making an additional $1 million available for research immediately, and $9 million more will be put to research funding.

This event promises opportunity in the business environment. Although 6000 jobs have been lost there is an opportunity for more jobs to be created for research. These new research jobs that may possibly appear soon may have unemployed workers moving to Florida in search for these jobs. These jobs will help the economy by lowering the unemployment rate. However, this spending by the government may make spending in other areas of the economy that need aid a little tighter, which could worsen other situations in the US that need help.

Local EventsMany California families struggle to pay for basics, study says

Many Californian families are struggling to make ends meet and cover their basic needs like housing and food. The California Budget Project has been conducting research and has found that a family of four with two children and one working parent needs an annual income of $60,771, or an hourly wage of $29.22. A single parent with two children requires an annual salary of $74,477, which translates into a pay of $35.81 an hour. The median California statewide wage was $19.02 last year.

For the business environment in California that is scary. If the median hourly wage for California is about $10 less than what is needed it may mean employees with families start picking up multiple jobs? With certain employees picking up more than one job some people may not have any jobs while some have two. This will make poverty more prevalent and more people dependent on the government through welfare systems and government assistant

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programs alike. This will make the market for jobs even more competitive. There may be Californians with Bachelors and Masters Degrees working two jobs just to make a living.

Expectations for the Future

I expect the US economy to see some growth in the future in many areas, while still trying to find solutions to the more troubled area. With global powerhouses like Samsung on the rise with no signs of slowing down I believe its major competitors will be opening more jobs to build a human capital competitive advantage in attempting to steal some market share. This competition will be good for both consumers looking for better prices and employees looking for new opportunities. I also expect brighter days in the future for women in the business world as if the sun was not already bright; with the emergence of the first female CEO in the automotive industry. This seems to be the latest of the many ground-breaking business moves by women in corporate America.

However there are still many issues America needs to solve, which could have adverse effects on the US economy. Many economic issues that are of utter importance that have not been discussed in this report are high prices of gas and consumer goods, healthcare costs, underemployment and joblessness and increased government dependency, which are obvious problems that must be solved or they will forever haunt the American economy, but I believe the government is continuing its search for a solution and we will see some of these costs cut in 2014. Research being conducted to treat citrus greening should have solutions by this upcoming year with the new resources being allocated to solve that problem, however I don’t think America will solve the Cook’s Island issue anytime soon because its geographic location is out of American jurisdiction, but it is an important matter, because it has already begun to undermine the US’s judicial system. In conclusion, I expect families in California to move away from a one parent income because the wages needed to provide proper living at average cannot be covered by single income families.

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Works Cited

Allen, Greg. "USDA Steps Up The Fight To Save Florida's Oranges." NPR. NPR, 13 Dec. 2013.

Web. 15 Dec. 2013.

Geewax, Marilyn. "GM Gives A Woman The Keys To Drive Its Future." NPR. NPR, 10 Dec. 2013.

Web. 16 Dec. 2013.

Li, Shan. "Many California Families Struggle to Pay for Basics, Study Says." Los Angeles Times.

Los Angeles Times, 13 Dec. 2013. Web. 13 Dec. 2013.

Pfanner, Eric, and Brian X. Chen. "Samsung: Uneasy in the Lead." Nytimes.com. New York Times,

14 Dec. 2013. Web. 15 Dec. 2013.

"United States 2013 Index." Economy: Population, GDP, Unemployment, Inflation, Spending. The

Heritage Foundation, 2013. Web. 15 Dec. 2013.

Wayne, Leslie. "Cook Islands, a Paradise of Untouchable Assets." Nytimes.com. New York Times,

14 Dec. 2013. Web. 15 Dec. 2013.

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HONORS SEMINAR REPORTSpring 2014



As the world’s largest economy, the United States of America has taken another step back this year by registering a new lowest index score after they had the previous lowest score of 76 in 2013. The US’s index score is 75.5, which has gone down only marginally (by 0.5 points). But last year it went down 0.3 points and now with this year it has gone down 0.5. During the first 10 years that countries have been given scores, the US’s score rose gradually, and it joined the ranks of the economically “free” in 2006, but now a similar but opposite trend seems to be occurring as their score has been gradually decreasing year after year. An index score of 75.5 keeps The United States at an economic state of being mostly free and to be completely free a country needs to register a score of at least 80. Although the US only took a 0.5 point loss, it is something to keep note of as this score has been decreasing ever since 2006, with an overall net loss of 1.2 from 1995 to 2014. Sectors that have continually waned are monetary freedom, business freedom, labor freedom, and fiscal freedom. Some blame for declines in the index score are due to considerable increases in the size and scope of government, including new and expensive rules and regulations in areas like finance and health care. These have contributed significantly to the erosion of U.S. economic freedom.

This has been the sixth consecutive year that there has been a loss in economic freedom for the US. According to its index score, the US is ranked 12th worldwide (falling back 2 places from last year), and remained 2nd out of three countries in North America, which still keeps the United States well above the world and regional averages. Some quick data to show where the US is at is a GDP (PPP) of $15.7 trillion (an increase of $0.6 trillion), with a 2.2% growth (an increase of 0.5%), a 0.6% 5-year compound annual growth, and $49,922 per capita, which as well are marginal increases. Unemployment rates are 8.1%, inflation (CPI) is at 2.1%, and Federal Direct Investments (FDI) Inflow are at $167.6 billion.

Global Events

Barclays to cut 19,000 jobs over three yearsBarclays is a well-known, global financial services provider involved in personal banking, credit cards, corporate and investment banking and wealth and investment management with a broad international existence in Europe, the Americas, Africa and Asia. With over 300 years of history and expertise, Barclays does business in over 50 countries and employs 140,000 people. Of that 140,000, 64,800 employees are staff members in retail and investment banking.

What currently is happening with Barclays is that they are attempting to be more lean and down-size. By downsizing they plan to close around 400 branches globally in the next few years and with that comes the loss of jobs. Barclays is expected to cut about 19,000 jobs by

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the year 2016, which is a lot higher than the 10,000 to 12,000 jobs that were expected to be cut. This large number of 19,000 is about 30% of the jobs that are in the investment and retail divisions of banking. This type of move has a large effect on the business environment. This company being global means jobs are being cut around the world. I believe employees are fortunate that this company is global. If this was a local business operating in one country or only a few this number of 19,000 would be like an earthquake to workers. The aftershocks would be felt throughout the country and unemployment for that country would skyrocket having employees with Masters’ and bachelors’ degrees taking jobs they are overqualified for and having job openings being flooded with many new applications as a new population of job seekers would have sprouted. However since this company operates in 50 countries the impact should not be too bad throughout the world with the exception of the UK.

The UK is the exception because 7,000 of that 19,000 job cuts are happening there. This should shake up the business environment in the UK by the following example I gave if this company were just a local one. 7,000 jobs lost in the UK will lead other global investment banks such as Bank of America Merrill Lynch, Citi, Credit Suisse, Deutsche Bank, Goldman Sachs, J.P. Morgan, Morgan Stanley, and UBS to have an increase of job applicants making the talent pool greater. Other smaller local banks should have new overqualified applicants as well.

Vibram in $3.75m settlement over false health claimsVibram is an “innovative” company in the footwear industry. They are known around the world as the definite leader in soling technology for a wide range of quality performance footwear products. Vibram manufactures more than 34 million soles annually for more than 1,000 premium footwear brands worldwide. As of late Vibram has been known for their 5 finger shoes that are said to offer health benefits of muscle strengthening and reducing injuries. But these health benefits may not be so concrete or even real.

Vibram recently settled a $3.75 million lawsuit overtheir specific health claims. One specific health benefit that took a lot of heat was the belief that they are supposed to reduce the chances of risk. However, a recent study in 2013 found that individuals given Vibram’s shoes were at a greater risk of injuring. Those wearing Vibrams had greater incidences of bone marrow edema, which went against their advertised health benefits.

This affects the business environment of all companies who operate in innovative research to provide products that give supposed health benefits. As we are seeing with Vibram, eventually these health claims will be challenged and if they are not concrete the company will suffer in bad publicity, lawsuit and more. We saw something very similar with Power Balance the company that advertised using hologram technology in wristbands that promoted benefits such as “enhanced natural body energy and better balance.” They were sued for $57 million and went bankrupt. This furthers the belief that all products and companies that promote their products as having some type of physiological gain will be challenged and lose if they do not have some type of scientific evidence to prove its truth as both Power Balance and Vibram were lacking.

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National EventsAin't it grand: Detroit selling homes for just $1,000?The City of Detroit’s economy has not been the greatest lately filing for Chapter 9 bankruptcy on July 18, 2013. This was the largest municipal bankruptcy filing in the United States history by debt around $20 billion. What has been left in the aftermath is a population that has declined from 1.8 million to 700,000 (more than a 50% decrease), a bunch of abandoned buildings, homes, vacant lots, and unlit streets to conserve energy and money.

Detroit recently just figured a way to bolster its economy and regain its large population by auctioning off the abandoned homes at a bargain. This bargain price for each house they plan to auction off is $1000 for classical homes that are pretty sturdy. However these houses aren’t buy and move-in homes they are fixer-uppers. They have some cosmetic and structural damage that need to be repaired first among other things before they are suitable places to live. What the City of Detroit requires for those individuals who win one of the abandoned houses is for them to rehab the house into a livable home within six months of its foreclosing and they must either live in it or rent them out to others.

This is a great plan of action it seems that it shall affect the business environment in a positive way. Detroit neighborhoods should see an increase in the value of other abandoned houses once some of these houses are rehabbed and are made valuable. Then they could possibly start auctioning other houses at higher starting prices and have The Motor City return to the greatness it used to be. This may also cause a ripple effect in other states that are dealing with similar problems of abandoned houses to start auctioning fixer-uppers at a low price so value can be returned the neighborhood and city.

Local Events

Property tax bills could jump for manyThe Great Recession of 2007 was felt around the world even locally in the city of San Diego. With the Great Recession came huge unemployment, inflation and many people looking for answers. With all that happening property owners could not keep up with their current taxes because they were too high. So some of these property values were reduced and property owners were given a break.

Now with the economy having made great strides towards recovery property taxes are set to go up. This kind of action will affect more than 200,000 property owners as some may see a rise in their property tax bill between 10-20%. Home values have recovered going up by as much as 17% in the months leading up to the New Year.

This action seems fit for the business environment. Although many property owners despise taxes and enjoyed their tax break rules must be upheld. With everything on its way to returning to normal so must taxes. I believe this will affect the environment of San Diego by

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making property owners and property owners to be more cautious on their next property purchases because their expenses will rise.

Expectations for the FutureI expect the US economy to continually see more growth in the future and start seeing things return to how they were before the Great Recession. With property taxes in San Diego returning to normal and consumers showing interest in the Detroit House auctions I see both these economies beginning on their path to stabilizing and seeing even more success in the future.

However there are still many issues that need to be solved, which could have adverse effects on the US and global economy. With global powerhouse Barclays cutting jobs how this will affect the job market. Will new college grads who were seeking jobs and opportunities with these financial banks be pushed aside for the new crop of job applicants that will be displaced by Barclays?

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Works Cited

"Barclays to Cut 19,000 Jobs." BBC News. BBC, 8 May 2014. Web. 11 May 2014.

"'Barefoot' Shoe Firm in Settlement." BBC News. BBC, 8 May 2014. Web. 11 May 2014.

Horn, Jonathan. "Property Tax Bills Could Jump for Many." U-T San Diego. U-T San Diego, 7

May 2014. Web. 11 May 2014.

Tenney, Garrett. "Ain't It Grand: Detroit Selling Homes for Just $1,000?" Fox News. FOX News

Network, 03 May 2014. Web. 11 May 2014.

"United States." Economy: Population, GDP, Unemployment, Inflation, Spending. The Heritage

Foundation, 2014. Web. 11 May 2014.

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HONORS SEMINAR REPORTFall 2014



As the world’s largest economy, the United States of America’s economy began slow and seemed as if it would be another down year, but in the latter half of the year the economy is surging. Barrack Obama and the government have achieved record blowing statistics for the end of 2014 with stocks setting record high numbers. The addition of more jobs has also helped fuel this economy with employers on the path to adding 3 million more jobs, which is more than any other number in the last 15 years. As many consumers have already figured out as well gas prices are extremely low compared to more recent prices almost as low as post-recession prices (May 2009). This may have also been a reason car and auto sales have been booming with 16.5 million new cars being put on the road in this new year. Inflation is down to a sub-par 2% mark, and interest rates have decreased as well allowing more loans to be approved, meaning more money being thrown back into the economy jump-starting the economy in one of many ways. 2.65 million Jobs have been added thus far but the goal of 3 million is still within arm’s reach with the economy being on track. These added jobs have helped decrease the unemployment rate down to 5.8%. Stocks as well are climbing back up exponentially with the Standard & Poor’s Index climbing another 13%, hitting records more than 10 times on the year..

Global Events

Xbox and PlayStation resuming service after Attack A hacking group known as Lizard Squad have cause problems with both Microsoft’s Xbox Live and Sony’s PlayStation network both being attacked by hackers and temporarily being shut down. This same group has targeted Sony in the past. The hacker hacked both of these platforms because they felt like it according to sources, suggesting large companies such as these have exploitable weakness. But what some people believe to be the real reason for the hacking of both these platforms is over the movie “The Interview”. There has been much controversy over this movie’s plot and releasing as it involves the assassination of an Asian Political Leader/figure. The movie was supposed to be only one of jokes and taken very lightly but these same hackers hacked Sony Pictures earlier focusing its action on the movie. With the controversy over the movie, only select theaters would have the movie playing and it would only be for 2 days. With that both Microsoft and Sony planned to host the movie on the platform for consumers to buy or stream to view. These hackers did not take too lightly to this and with that came what some people deem the motive for the hacking of both these platforms.

This impacts the business environment in a huge way. Not only does it affect the security operations of large companies worldwide it also plays a role in how some companies with

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show their support or align with certain positions of a heated topic. With Xbox Live and PlayStation Network affecting more than 150 million people it has allowed Sony to give public statements regarding the tightening of their security operations. Other large companies with huge online presence such as Amazon, EBay, Apple, will definitely be on watch and monitoring their security operations as those companies are in the same domain with Microsoft and Sony by streaming “The Interview” as well to customers. This could and should put them on high alert to make sure everything is tight within operations and they are monitoring any changes within their systems. As well this really affects all companies in how they chose to support a position that draws political attention. Usually governments are the target of terroristic activities over political issues, but in this instance it was companies that were globally vested in the conflict as targets. This will shape up into a more cautious business environments that either takes no position in political issues or very few. This could possibly be harmful, because without the support of some of these larger companies economies can be impacted in different ways.

National Events

Could this mean the end of tipping?A couple of restaurants have gained some headlines by their new approach to compensating their servers/waiters. The more traditional way where patrons tip the server or waiter depending on how the service was is widely accepted ad is the norm today. However, these restaurants want to move away from this approach. They feel the tipping approach puts their workers compensation in the hands of individual customers instead of the restaurant itself and it also allows some of their workers to be shorted for their work. So what these restaurants are doing are not allowing patrons to tip anymore as it is no longer allowed in these restaurants. Instead what they are doing is increasing their menu prices by about 20% giving restaurants more money to pay their workers more handsomely. This is beginning to catch steam in restaurants in larger metropolitan areas and the restaurants who have done this so far have been able to pay their workers an average of $16.34 a lot higher than minimum wage and the industry average.

For the business environment what this does starting more at a micro-level is allow workers to be better compensated. While this does sound great, it can consequently lead to a decline in customer service. With servers automatically getting compensated for a tip patrons no longer have some type of incentive to pull better customer service and with workers not needing to please every single whim of a customer to make a few extra bucks there may be a decrease in workers going that extra mile, which could hurt such restaurants. Also what this can do to the business environment in terms of profitability is greatly hurt these businesses that are raising menu prices, because now some of the more cost-efficient restaurants people dine out may be out of their price range and may be deemed unfair and boycotted by individuals who believe mandatory tips is a crime in itself, so I believe many restaurants won’t be quick to take on this new trend as there are many factors that possibly could go wrong for restaurants taking on this new ideal.

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Local Events

Egg prices likely to rise amid laws mandating cage-free henhousesA local San Diego Farmer has reduced his hen flock by almost half and had to do upward $1 million renovations to overhaul his henhouse to make them more spacious which will lead to an increase of about 50% for eggs. With a new proposition that has been passed in California to abolish the close confinement of farm animals in cages and crates, farmers around the California not only San Diego will have to make adjustments that will be felt by consumer bank accounts. Egg prices are projected to increase around California between 10-40% next year.

This effects the business environment in more ways than one. First it obviously has many farmers drastically changing the infrastructure of their farms making more space and with that may lead to less hens and less eggs at a farm. With California being the largest single state consumer of eggs, a shortage could lead to prices rising even more and a huge issue. This Proposition is also enforced on eggs that are exported to California (Iowa being the biggest outside supplier will feel large effects from this as well). This could be a huge issue for many people in the US who have certain diets largely around eggs.

Another effect it may have is on other farm animals. Other farm animals such as cows, sheep, and pigs already have the luxury of not being confined to a cage, however this could lead to a call for better living conditions for them as well. If this type of reform was to have a domino effect on different meat products the prices of meat would rise greatly as well. Although this may be seen as a minor problem it could lead to different meat alternatives being purchased and hurt the businesses of those farmers who had to reform because of law.

Expectations for the Future

I expect the future to business environment to keep booming and be better in the future. As has already been stated the US started this year off a little shaky but as the year has gone on the economy has done nothing but improve. With the steam the economy is catching I see the unemployment rate hitting slightly below 2%. I see gas prices to continue to be at a low price as well as the stock market to do just fine. However, the only problem I am seeing is the wage growth. That is one area that has not greatly improved with only moving up about 1.7% in San Diego which is the lowest of the 10 largest metropolitan areas in the US. To combat this I see the added jobs helping and more of President Obama’s reform and policies having a big effect as we continue to recover from this horrible economic downturn.

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Works Cited

Boak, Josh. "In 2014, US Economy Kept Healing from Recession with Help from Jobs, Stocks and

Cheaper Oil." US News. U.S.News & World Report, 26 Dec. 2014. Web. 29 Dec. 2014.

Cellan-Jones, Rory. "Xbox and PlayStation Rebuild Service." BBC News. BBC, 27 Dec. 2014.

Web. 27 Dec. 2014.

Pierson, David. "Egg Prices Likely to Rise amid Laws Mandating Cage-free Henhouses." Los

Angeles Times. Los Angeles Times, 28 Dec. 2014. Web. 28 Dec. 2014.

Vasel, Kathryn. "Could This Mean the End of Tipping?" CNNMoney. Cable News Network, 23

Dec. 2014. Web. 29 Dec. 2014.

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HONORS SEMINAR REPORTSpring 2015



To end 2014 and to begin 2015 the United States of America has finally displayed signs of turning things around. In year 2014 the US registered an index score of 75.5, which continued a downward trend that began in 2011, however this trend has ended. In 2015 the US’s new index score is a 76.2, which is a 0.7 point increase. With a score of less than 80 points the US it still among the ranks of “economically mostly free,” and has not been a completely free economy since 2006, but if this new sign of life means anything for the future the US may make it back to being one of the freest economies before 2020. Although a 0.7 increase may only seem small and marginal, it’s a big deal as in only one year the US has erased its net decline that began in 2012. However, the US is still at an overall 1.6 point decline since 2008. Since 2008 the US’s post-recession recovery can be described as, slow growth which is indicated by this 2015 increase, high unemployment, lessening numbers of Americans looking for jobs and careers, and lack of certainty holding back venture capitalist and other investors. Higher tax and regulatory loads, caused by preference toward rooted interests, have weakened America’s traditional vibrant entrepreneurial growth. The only sector of the US’s economy that has regressed is Business Freedom, while freedom from corruption, labor freedom, monetary freedom, trade freedom, fiscal freedom, and government spending all increased.

According to the US’s index score of a 76.2, it currently places the US as the 12th ranked freest economy. This is the same place the US ranked in 2014 even with an improvement to their score. They are still ranked 2nd in North America, only behind Canada by 2.9 points, which can be an even smaller gap as Canada has been taking steps back as a free economy to now only a mostly free economy. The world average a regional average are 60.4 and 74.0 respectively, which indicates the US is above average in both regards. Some quick data to help visualize where the US is as follows: GDP (PPP): $16.8 trillion (an increase of $1.1 trillion since 2014 [1.9% growth]), a 1.2% 5 year annual growth, and $53,101 per capita (roughly $2000 increase). Unemployment rates are 7.5% decreasing by 0.6% from last year, inflation (CPI) is at 1.5%, and the Federal Direct Investments (FDI) Inflow has increased by about $20 billion to $187.5 billion.

Global EventsSamsung: S6 Edge curved screen is difficult to make

Samsung is a well-known company in the electronics industry and a fierce competitor in the small electronics and smart phone market. As usual Samsung releases the next series of its Samsung Galaxy phones and in 2015 they are releasing the S6 Edge model. This phone is said to be the next innovation in the smartphone market as the screen partially wraps around

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the sides of the phone. However a big, unique innovation this next best thing may have some problems for Samsung to overcome. These problems being:

Supply not being able to meet demand. o This can be a huge issue for customers who really want a new phone in the

global market. Samsung not being able to provide enough phones to meet market demands could naturally turn people off to Samsung leading them to find comfort in the other company’ smartphone’s such as Amazon, Apple, Google etc. This could also steer other smartphone company’s away from the producer of wraparound phone screens as their production is not fast enough or even sever the relationship Samsung and other companies in different areas other than just smartphones have with this supplier.

Samsung facing fierce competition by Apple in the high-end smartphone marketo Apple sold about 74.5 million iPhones in Quarter 1, which is a huge feat for

Smartphone Company. Samsung and Apple have had an intense competition for a good amount of time now with lawsuits being thrown and advertisements targeting the other. With Samsung set to release this new groundbreaking phone the global market of phones can be changed forever. If all goes great with this innovation Samsung could possibly outdo Apple and send all smartphone companies into searching for a supplier that has a wraparound screen. However, if this idea falls flat Apple can widen the gap in the global market for phone sales being the clear number 1.

National EventsGeneral Electric to sell $26.5bn property portfolio

General Electric plans to sell almost all its property portfolio for $26.5 billion to funds including Wells Fargo and Blackstone. This is the biggest deal since 2007. For a little while now GE has been wanting to get back to its roots and stand on its strong foundation that it has built in industrial business, such as energy management, water and aviation. In this effort GE will be letting go of its financial and lending hand. General Electric CEO, Jeff Immelt believes this will allow GE to become a more valuable company in coming years. However some things to look into are:

Without its properties, the company says it expects its other, "high-value" operations to bring in 90% of earnings by 2018, compared to 58% today.

o What General Electric believes that its core business practice will be able to bring in an increase of 32% in earnings in 3 years? This is a steep mountain to climb for any company that makes any type of divestment, but such a huge one as $26.5 billion might be expecting more than is realistic. Though GE has bought back nearly two billion of its outstanding shares this move may see lowering value of GE stocks in the future. This could shake up the business environment in the stock market and have many common stock owners looking to sell the majority of their stocks in this volatile time.

How does this affect other businesses?o If this move by GE is to come out well this could be the latest fashion in

business. Companies that are overextending themselves in too many different

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industries go back to their core pillars and generate greater value there. One company that could seek this type of move would be Sony. Sony as many other electronic giants operate in many industries such as gaming, smartphones, TVs, Tablets, etc. However, Sony is not doing well in any of these industries other than gaming with its PlayStation 4. Companies like Sony may benefit by following suit and cutting off its multiple decaying arms and focus on protecting the heart of its company before it loses its grip on that industry as well.

Local EventsPoway's cannabis conglomerate

With the legalization of marijuana for recreational and medical use in select states a small business in San Diego is trying to get into the mix as well. Medical Marijuana Inc. is a company that sells hemp based products (oil, beauty products, and products to help diseases from epilepsy to autism). The company has been on the rise operating in 2011 and 2012 at a loss and in 2013 got into the black, and has not released its 2014 financial information. This company wants to expand its business into the sale of marijuana for medical and recreational purposes. Medical Marijuana Inc. already sales hemp product which is made from a different cannabis plant and although they do not grow their own products it is a relatively close market for them to operate in.

Entering into the sale of marijuana can have adverse effects on the company. There are many stigmas associated with marijuana and for Medical Marijuana Inc. to associate themselves with this drug could turn many existing customers off. However, it could actually bolster their sales as a company with marijuana in its name may give off the feel that they sale marijuana for all uses and this would allow them to open business to more customers. Many existing customers may also need something stronger and these new products could be what they need. This may also open up the business environment for more companies to begin selling marijuana for all-purposes.

Expectations for the FutureI expect to see the US become a completely economic free country by 2020 as long as change in government leaders make no drastic mistakes. I also see San Diego and other cities to become friendlier to the legal sale of marijuana as Colorado has already seen great success in that market. The smartphone industry will forever be changing and Samsung’s new innovation will garner mixed reviews, but in the end they will be accepted by the masses as smartphone consumers must keep up to date with the newest of technology. I also expect the 5 year success or failure of General Electric to influence many companies in similar predicaments. If it works out well for General Electric many companies may be looking to emulate these same results, however I believe General Electric will come out fine no matter what because they are an established company that has been doing good business for a very long time.

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Works Cited

"General Electric to Sell $26.5bn Property Portfolio." BBC News. British Broadcasting

Corporation, 10 Apr. 2015. Web. 13 Apr. 2015.

Harvey, Katherine P. "Poway's Cannabis Conglomerate." U-T San Diego. U-T San Diego, 12 Apr.

2015. Web. 13 Apr. 2015.

"Samsung: S6 Edge Curved Screen Is Difficult to Make." BBC News. British Broadcasting

Corporation, 10 Apr. 2015. Web. 13 Apr. 2015.

"United States." Economy: Population, GDP, Unemployment, Inflation, Spending. The Heritage

Foundation, 2015. Web. 13 Apr. 2015.

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Is Religion Hip?

Religious Studies 356Hip Hop and Religion

Semester CompletedFall 2013

Course DescriptionThis class examines the intersection between hip hop and religion. Special attention will be given to how hip hop culture and religious beliefs and practices cross paths. For instance, hip hop and religion are both very much concerned with the same ethical issues: the kind of world people live in and want to live in. In the end, the course demonstrates that a synergy arises between and among hip hop and religion when they are studied together not independently attainable.

Major Projects or Skills Developed in the Class Analytical Skills – Improvement on analyzing written, visual, and performed texts

in the humanities and fine arts with sensitivity to their diverse cultural contexts and historical moments;

Problem Solving – identifies issues in the humanities that have personal and global relevance and demonstrates the ability to approach complex problems and ask complex questions drawing upon knowledge of the humanities.

New Knowledge and PerspectivesThe Business of Hip HopI believed Hip Hop was primarily about the music, but the reality is Hip Hop is a business venturing into many industries. It now generates more than $10 billion per year and has moved far beyond its musical roots, transforming into a dominant and increasingly lucrative lifestyle. My new perspective is that it is the process of artists being integrated into this business that has ventured into the fashion, sports, and alcohol industries, among others.

Artists knocking on the door of opportunity. 1 st Step (Opening the FRONT Door): This is the first plunge when artists are solely

making music (90%) and creating their BRAND (10%) (Opens every door inside the house).

2 nd Step (Entering without CLOSING the door behind): Their MUSIC (75%) spreads like a fire in the forest and their BRAND (25%) needs to be developed.

3 rd Step ( EXPLORES the House and other ROOMS) : The focus on MUSIC (50%) isn’t as important and the BRAND (50%) controls the path

o ***50 Cent signs endorsement deal to vitamin water, creates G-Unit Label, Album taking longer to finish

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4 th Step (First Door FORGOTTEN , Other Door INFATUATION ): The BRAND (75%) becomes more important than the MUSIC (25%)

o ***Jay-Z creates Rocawear (Clothing line=$204 million) Part Owner of Brooklyn NETS (NBA Basketball Team), Roc Nation Sports (Sports Agency), TOOK 4 YEARS to release most Recent Album (2009 2013)

5 th Step (The DOOR that was NEVER CLOSED ): Other artist FOLLOW in suit and the CYCLE CONTINUES...

o ***Kanye West releases “Air Yeezy’s”o ***50 Cent creates “SMS Promotion” (Boxing Promotion)o ***Usher Raymond IV part owner of Cleveland Cavaliers (NBA Basketball)

The list continues and Hip Hop will Never Be the Same….

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What Comes First Society or Societal Norms?

Psychology 340Social Psychology


Course DescriptionTo introduce you to the ways in which social psychologists think about and approach their world. To introduce you to the body of knowledge, research findings, and underlying principles that currently exists in the field. To stimulate you to think about the implications of this research for situations we encounter daily

Major Projects or Skills Developed in the Class Analytical Skills – Improvement on analyzing social, behavioral, and spoken

actions in people and our environment with sensitivity to their diverse cultural contexts and life experiences;

Problem Solving – identifies issues in society that have personal and global relevance and demonstrate the ability to approach complex social situations and ask/answer complex questions drawing upon knowledge social psychology.

New Knowledge and PerspectivesCulture IS, Race IS NOTI believed culture and race had a big impact on the personal growth as well as the way people interacted together. I felt they complemented each other in how people interacted but as time when on the truth of the matter was culture came first and decided how races are (stereotypes), and how culture influences actions.

Race cannot be applied globallyo There is a basic category of different races (Black/African American/African,

Hispanic/Latino, Caucasian/White, Indian, etc) but if you take this same American guideline to Africa for example 99% of people would be in one group according to this. However, in Africa they believe in races such as Nigerian, Guyanese, etc., which occurs because the CULTURE of Africa (continent) & the USA (country) are different, “race is different.

Stereotypes come from Culture not Raceo Many stereotypes such as “Black people love chicken/watermelon” or “Black

people are always late” come from the American culture. When applied to different countries these same stereotypes do not apply because of CULTURAL DIFFERENCES.

People’s actions align with the CULTURAL STRATOSPHERE, NOT RACE!o African American sample populations living in the same country on opposite

sides of the US have many different customs even though they are in the same country, and that is because of the culture (experiences, family values, etc.) of the two different areas.

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Biology and Culture is Life

Anthropology 402Dynamics of Biocultural Diversity


Course DescriptionThe focus of this course is the synergistic interaction of biology and culture in human populations over time. The course is directly relevant to our quest to understand the historical and contemporary basis for the bio-cultural diversity of humanity, and to ensure a healthful future for people in all parts of the world and in all walks of life.

Major Projects or Skills Developed in the Class Analytical Skills – Improvement on analyzing varying biological views and events

through a more cultural lens Problem Solving – identifies questions and issues in either biology or culture that

have global relevance and demonstrates the ability to approach these complex problems with a unique combination of solutions from both biology and culture with knowledge of the synergy.

New Knowledge and Perspectives Human biological adaptation

o Was able to see how varying human groups adapted to life in different climates, ecosystems, and how they became very structured from Chiefdoms to fluid running governments

How culture differentially affects our expectations for, and experiences of, our bodies

o No race is better given unique talents such as “African Americans being more physically gifted,” “Any race being the most intelligent,” etc. Culture is the reason for this. Because the US has been ahead of the world technologically there has been that expectation that they are smarter and because in many African countries such as Kenya places are located far from each other people have to run everywhere and overtime their bodies evolve to be more suitable for their environment that was based on their Culture.

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Leadership Starts Here!Fall 2013- Spring 2014

President of Student African American Brotherhood Organization

During the spring semester of 2013, I ran for president of the Student African American Brotherhood and was elected to serve during the Fall (2013) and Spring (2014) semesters. I was seen as a natural leader willing to give my all to this organization, which is why I made a rare transition from secretary to president.

Description of OrganizationA dynamic organization established specifically to assist our participants to excel academically, socially, culturally, professionally, and in the community. SAAB is primarily comprised of students who strive for academic excellence and make a commitment to plan and implement programs that benefit their community at large. Members embrace leadership by being positive examples for each other through a strong commitment to academic achievement, brotherhood, and community service.

Responsibilities of OfficeThe President shall oversee executive officers and shall preside over all meeting of SAAB-SDSU. The person shall present the views of SAAB-SDSU and the national society to any interested person, promote growth of the chapter, and make appointments with the approval of the board. The duties shall also include: presiding over all meetings, calling and arranging the places for all meetings, acting as chairperson of annual banquet, and other duties deemed necessary by circumstances that do not conflict with the by-laws.

What I LearnedI have learned what it truly means to be a leader. Being a leader involves putting the organization ahead of myself and my personal needs. To be a president or anyone in a leadership position you must be unselfish and willing to spread the praise. As any president knows one person can’t do everything alone, so I learned to respect, appreciate, and enjoy my team because I needed them to succeed. I learned what works and what doesn’t work when running an effective organization, and how to bounce back from a fall. I learned that a being a president is much more than delegating tasks to others. Presidents make the hard decisions when there is no clear consensus and take on the burden of any backlash. I learned how to develop others into leaders. Developing leaders involves finding out more about an individual, through their goals, personality and aspirations. With these ingredients the concoction that ensues is a road map with numerous measureable goals that gives route to those dreams and aspirations. Lastly, I learned I am a great leader willing to help those in search of guidance. My confidence, generosity, and commitment to purpose make me a standout from ordinary leaders who look only to accomplishing goals and recognition.

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Leadership ContinuesSpring 2014- Fall 2014

Vice President of Marketing President the Black Business Society

During the spring semester of 2014, I ran for vice president of marketing for the Black Business Society and was elected to serve during the Spring (2014) and Fall (2014) semesters. I was seen as a natural leader willing to give my all to this brand new organization I was a founding member to. My goal was to help inspire and recruit students into this organization and make it sustainable beyond my years as an undergrad.

Description of OrganizationThe Black Business Society of San Diego State University shall be a student organization promoting professional development and academic excellence within the college of business, for all majors and ethnicities, and the SDSU community. Our members shall be guided with resources and support that will help them prepare for their chosen profession.

Principles: Humility, Integrity, Independence, Respect, Empowerment.

Responsibilities of OfficeAs VP of Marketing Communications, you are responsible for coordinating an active public relations and publicity program in BBS. Vice President of Marketing responsible for marketing BBS to the SDSU community. Head of the marketing committee. Must recruit and lead committee. Responsible for tabling events. Organizing, set up, and clean. Participation of committee members and officers. Responsible for posting fliers around SDSU campus. Promote BBS events around campus.

What I LearnedI have learned what it truly means to be an entrepreneur. Being an entrepreneur involves making my vision/dream/idea into a tangible substance for others to experience. To be a founder of an organization or product it takes a lot of time, hard work, commitment, and a great support system. As any founding member or founder understands one person can’t do everything alone, so I learned to respect, appreciate, and enjoy my team because I needed them to succeed. I also learned asking for help is quite okay. Nobody has all the answers and two brains is always netter than one, so understanding the need to reach for help and combine my unique talents with others greatly helped in my steps to help found an organization. I learned what works and what doesn’t work trying to start an effective organization with a huge preliminary goal, and how to bounce back from a failure. I learned that founding an organization is much more than bringing something to life and you work there is done. I learned continually effort and drive is a must if I planned to see my organization become fruitful and meaningful to other students in the community. This was our organization goal and I can already see us taking the right steps to this as the Black Business Society has already won an award at SDSU’s annual Business Achievement Awards and because of our turnouts at general body meetings and events.

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SDSU Awaits You All!Spring 2014

Student Speaker at University Honors Program Prospective Students Reception

During the spring semester of 2014, I was blessed with the opportunity to speak in front of more than 500 prospective SDSU Honors students and parents to give them insight into what the Honors program has to offer. I was seen as a bridge to the gap prospective students needed to gain real life information about a prospective program they may get into from a peers point of view as well as a successful product the Honors Program wanted to exemplify.

Description of ProgramThe University Honors College creates and sustains a culture of excellence, an academic environment in which students experience a dynamic, interactive, and engaged education. Through small, discussion-based seminars that promote active engagement in the subject area, a learning-centered curriculum, innovative teaching techniques, and residential learning experiences, students in the University Honors College become more self-directed in their learning. Recognizing that contemporary issues and problems defy easy categorization, the scope of the University Honors College curriculum is deliberately interdisciplinary, flexible, and capable of meeting the needs of students across a wide range of disciplines and majors. The curriculum (Honors Minor in Interdisciplinary Studies) emphasizes discovery, creativity, initiative, responsibility, collaboration, leadership, and independent thought. These are the attributes that enhance opportunities for individuals, organizations, and society as a whole. The integrative nature of the coursework invites students to reach beyond the boundaries of their academic major and join in scholarly conversation with students and faculty from disciplines other than their own..

Role as SpeakerMy role as the speaker was to communicate and illustrate The Honors Life and how it is Full of Adventures and Unique Experiences to prospective, high talented students we wanted to become Aztecs for Life. I touched on the Honors curriculum and how it is set up for students’ success and why it is different than any other Honors Program they could expect to experience. I even had the chance to speak on the types of courses the program offered, how they were uniquely structured so every students’ opinion mattered and were heard, and how these classes helped my growth as a person. What I loved speaking about most was how the adventures of the honors program could take place outside the US by using my amazing study abroad program as leverage in sparking the interest of prospective students.

What I LearnedI have learned how to effectively communicate to a diverse group of people. Public Speaking is an art, and being able to hold a crowd’s attention was my goal and I accomplished that. When speaking to a diverse group you must understand their different and similar needs and be able to formulate a message that can be understood by many for different reasons. I learned that practice doesn’t make perfect when speaking in front of people because more times than not your speech won’t be perfect but that’s ok. Being able to keep my conversation fluid and not be hindered by slight mistakes gave me much needed confidence.

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In the Field!

Marketing & Events Intern of SOLO EyewearFall 2014 Semester

I began working for SOLO Eyewear as an Events and Marketing Support intern. I served an integral role in the blogging and events coordination aspect of SOLO Eyewear. During my internship, I wrote blogs for the SOLO Eyewear website, prepared pitches, identified media outlets, researched potential events and identified potential international retailers for SOLO Eyewear.

Description of OrganizationSOLO Eyewear is a line of handcrafted sunglasses made with recycled bamboo. Each pair purchased funds eye care for people in need.

The concept for SOLO Eyewear was developed in a classroom at San Diego State University. Jenny was enrolled in the MBA Program. While completing an International Entrepreneurship course, she was given the option to read Paul Polak’s Out of Poverty. While reading the book, she discovered there was a great need for eye care around the world and decided to research the issue further. Jenny, who has poor vision, encountered two startling statistics: approximately 1 billion people do not have access to eye care and nearly 80% of the world’s blindness is preventable. (World Health Organization)

Responsibilities of Office Representing the organization at community/professional events Researching different opportunities for SOLO Eyewear to build brand recognition Effectively share, market, and communicate SOLO Eyewear’s mission, goals, and

purpose to further the organizations initiatives Configuring an online presence for SOLO Eyewear

What I Learned How to create unique marketing tactics to aid an already incredible marketing team How to effectively represent a company/organization in a public setting How to align a company with pertinent opportunities How to present a company to all Stakeholders How to create an online presence/persona

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Get Professional Ready!

To: Professor VenableFrom: Javon OgbeideDate: May 7, 2015Subject: Professional Meeting: San Diego Gas & Electric

Organization Visited: San Diego Gas & Electric

Date: March 14, 2015

Location: 4760 Clairemont Mesa Blvd, Diane Village Shopping Center, San Diego, CA 92117

Contacts Made: Derek Mack II – NSBE (SDSU Chapter) Vice President Jason Witt– Project Engineer at Turner Constructions

Speaker/Topic: Resume Prep and Mock Interview Workshop

Description of Event: An all morning event to where professionals from SD&G, Turner Constructions and other business and engineering professionals took the time out of their busy schedules to volunteer their time and 1-on-1 critique resumes, conduct professional interviews, and share advice and tips on landing an interview.

Impressions An amazing experience observing and interacting with such a young professionals

invested in my future success

Great information to apply towards future opportunities and giving me a leg up on the competition

Great Company, amazing heart-felt impact in the community.

Meet SOLO Eyewear

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To: Professor VenableFrom: Javon OgbeideDate: May 7, 2014Subject: Professional Meeting with SOLO EYEWEAR

Organization Visited: SOLO EYEWEAR

Date: Various dates throughout 2014 Spring Semester

Location: San Diego, CA

Contacts Made: Jenny Amaraneni – Past SDSU Graduate who launched her own company through

SDSU Mariah Adams – Intern at SOLO Eyewear, who was part of a great support system of

friends and family Hilary Peterson – Intern at SOLO Eyewear, who did most of social media marketing

Speaker/Topic: What is SOLO Eyewear (Orientation)?

Description of Event: A 2 hour meeting in Pacific Beach, San Diego to introduce and teach the SOLO EYEWEAR way. We spoke about how the company was founded and why, SOLO EYEWEAR’S goal and their progress towards their different goals, our roles and how we could help the company and the different target markets SOLO EYEWEAR choses to focus on.

Impressions An amazing experience observing and interacting with such a young and vibrant

culture and its people through group projects, participation in emerging markets living, traveling, and speaking.

Remarkable entrepreneurial framework learned from an entrepreneur herself that can be applied to many business ideas and opportunities worldwide.

Great Company, amazing heart-felt impact in the community, a simple array of beautiful sunglasses, and hard –work must be done to move forward.

Voy Al Roma

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To: Professor VenableFrom: Javon OgbeideDate: May 7, 2015Subject: Trip Report, Richmond Study Center, (Rome, Italy)

Organization Visited: Richmond Study Center

Date: December 28th (2013) – January 16th (2014)

Location: Rome, Italy

Contacts Made: Bernhard Schroeder – SDSU instructor who led the Entrepreneurship class abroad

(MGT 358) Mario – Founder of M&J Hostel (Entrepreneur in Rome) Andrea – Founder and Head Chef of Cooking School (Entrepreneur in Rome) Philippa Nicholson – AIFS Rome Program Coordinator

Speaker/Topic: Bernhard Schroeder: Fundamentals of Entrepreneurship

Description of Event: A three week, 3 unit class (MGT 358) in Rome, Italy to understand the fundamentals of entrepreneurship, encompassing why entrepreneurship can be viewed as having arisen from the intersection of enterprising people, markets, industries and trends. Tools such as the Seven Domains, Porter’s Five Forces, etc. are used to define entrepreneurial opportunities and explain why such opportunities exist. Meetings with small business owners and founders in Rome are examined to apply what is learned in class.

Impressions An amazing experience observing and interacting with an ancient culture and its

people through everyday living, traveling, and speaking.

Remarkable entrepreneurial framework learned that can be applied to any business or real world opportunity to make good decisions

Instructor was phenomenal, taught the course subject in a meaningful way, incorporating case studies and real world projects, surveys, and data.

Creative class structure that encouraged real world learning from meeting Roman Entrepreneurs and analyzing markets and industries to presenting an innovative product

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Astounding Roman entrepreneurs that gave insight into starting a business from the ground-up

Communication is Key

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Toastmasters InternationalSDSU

Semester CompletedSpring 2014

Toastmasters International DescriptionToastmasters International is a world leader in communication and leadership development. Members improve their speaking and leadership skills by attending one of the 14,650 clubs in 126 countries that make up our global network of meeting locations. The world needs leaders. Leaders head families, coach teams, run businesses and mentor others. These leaders must not only accomplish, they must communicate. By regularly giving speeches, gaining feedback, leading teams and guiding others to achieve their goals in a supportive atmosphere, leaders emerge from the Toastmasters program. Every Toastmasters journey begins with a single speech. During their journey, they learn to tell their stories. They listen and answer. They plan and lead. They give feedback—and accept it. Through our community of learners, they find their path to leadership.

Major Skills Improved During Activity Public Speaking Confidence Listening Communication Writing

Improved Knowledge and Perspectives

Appealing to an Audience with Words Public Speaking is more than what you say, it’s about how you say it

o Most audiences will be educated in the speaker’s background or what topic they will be presenting on. Chances are this audience knows the basics of what the speaker will be speaking about, so to effectively keep an audience’s attention one must use different tones, annunciate, and make eye contact to keep an engaged audience.

Practice, Practice, Practice!!!o Not only will practice allow for better memorization of a speech, but it will

also encourage confidence. When knowing every piece of your speech inside out you can get creative with your audience, can better recover if one blanks or loses thought, and it makes the speaker appear very prepared.

Outlining is more effective than memorizing

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o Outlining a speech gives the speaker a general guideline to follow but does not confine the speaker in a box of what to say and allows for a more adaptable speech for different audiences. Memorizing a speech will make it more difficult to adapt your speech to different audiences as well as make it to recover from mistakes or memory blanks.

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Bella Roma!

Study Abroad Rome, Italy

Semester CompletedWinter 2013

Study Abroad Trip DescriptionSDSU is providing an intensive, innovative faculty-led study abroad program in Rome, Italy. This program invites students to learn about the basic concepts of entrepreneurship, feasibility analysis and international venturing in the context of the Italian and EU economy. Students also are exposed to the local entrepreneurial and cultural environment in Rome.

Major Skills Improved During the Trip Improved Cross Cultural Communication Skills Global Perspective More Open-minded Adaptability Improved Business and Opportunity Analysis Public Speaking/ Confidence

Improved Knowledge and Perspectives

A Global Business World The US business/economic structure is not the only efficient structure/process.

o Italy and France have different economic structures than the US, and their Euro is strong than a US dollar. Italian citizens pay about 40–50% of their income in taxes

Successful businesses around the world have similar foundational qualitieso Customer focused, quality, consistency, and giving something customers want

Being open to every culture grants access to many industries and marketso Restaurants in Rome, who have menus translated in multiple languages, were

usually the busiest. Showing an appreciation for the customer’s needs attracted more customers to try the restaurant and become loyal customers. I am proof.

There are many business opportunities out there around the world, but to get best results I must examine the macro and micro marketplace, the macro and micro industry and the team domain.

7 Domains and Porter’s Five Forces

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o Frameworks Used to assess an opportunity

Entrepreneur, Manager, and Techniciano 3 people needed to have a successful business (global or domestic)o 3 personalities inside every person each looking to be the dominant oneo Visionary, Regulator, & Worker

Documents

Javon Draft Portfolio