8 answers
Ava
Student
Las Vegas, Nevada
1
Question
Asked
1521 views
If I want to start a cafe/bookshop, should I pursue a degree in entrepreneurship or go to a culinary school?
I'm currently a sophomore in high school, so I have time to learna decide still.
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8 answers
Patrick Meyer
Executive - Data Analytics and AI
771
Answers
Naperville, Illinois
Updated
Patrick’s Answer
Ava, just imagine how thrilling it would be to kick-start your very own cafe/bookshop! It's a fantastic blend of welcoming hospitality, tasty culinary arts, smart business sense, and a dash of creativity. You're in a great spot as a high school sophomore, with plenty of time to explore what you love, pick up useful skills, and make smart choices about your career path. When you're thinking about whether to get an entrepreneurship degree or go to culinary school, it's important to think about the benefits and drawbacks of each, and see which one fits best with your dreams for your cafe/bookshop.
First off, going for an entrepreneurship degree gives you a full-on education in how to run a business, manage finances, market your brand, and plan strategically—everything you need to make your cafe/bookshop a hit. This degree will arm you with the know-how to craft a business plan, find funding, handle legal stuff, and keep everything running smoothly day-to-day. Plus, entrepreneurship programs often give you chances for real-world learning, mentorship, and networking, which can be super helpful as you start and grow your business.
On the flip side, culinary school offers focused training in cooking, food prep, menu creation, and managing a kitchen—all key for running a food-focused cafe. Culinary school dives deep into cooking techniques, flavor combos, and sourcing ingredients so you can whip up delicious dishes and drinks that your customers will love. Plus, culinary programs often include internships at restaurants or food places, giving you hands-on experience in a pro kitchen.
At the end of the day, Ava, whether you go for an entrepreneurship degree or culinary school depends on what you're into, what you're good at, and where you want your career to go. If you love both cooking and running a business, you might want to go for a dual-degree program or take a mix of entrepreneurship and culinary classes to get a well-rounded skill set. Or, you might decide to focus on one area first and pick up experience or more education in the other area as your cafe/bookshop grows.
Ava, no matter what you choose, there are lots of things you can do in high school to get ready for your future venture. Think about taking elective classes in business, finance, or hospitality management to learn the basics. Join extracurricular activities like cooking clubs, entrepreneurship contests, or volunteer at local cafes or bookshops to get real-world experience and insights. Also, look for mentors or pros in the field who can give you guidance, advice, and mentorship as you explore your love for entrepreneurship and cooking.
In the end, Ava, remember that the most important thing is to stay curious, proactive, and open-minded on your journey of exploration and discovery. Keep learning, seeking out new experiences, and honing your vision for your cafe/bookshop, and you'll be ready to chase your dreams with confidence and excitement.
First off, going for an entrepreneurship degree gives you a full-on education in how to run a business, manage finances, market your brand, and plan strategically—everything you need to make your cafe/bookshop a hit. This degree will arm you with the know-how to craft a business plan, find funding, handle legal stuff, and keep everything running smoothly day-to-day. Plus, entrepreneurship programs often give you chances for real-world learning, mentorship, and networking, which can be super helpful as you start and grow your business.
On the flip side, culinary school offers focused training in cooking, food prep, menu creation, and managing a kitchen—all key for running a food-focused cafe. Culinary school dives deep into cooking techniques, flavor combos, and sourcing ingredients so you can whip up delicious dishes and drinks that your customers will love. Plus, culinary programs often include internships at restaurants or food places, giving you hands-on experience in a pro kitchen.
At the end of the day, Ava, whether you go for an entrepreneurship degree or culinary school depends on what you're into, what you're good at, and where you want your career to go. If you love both cooking and running a business, you might want to go for a dual-degree program or take a mix of entrepreneurship and culinary classes to get a well-rounded skill set. Or, you might decide to focus on one area first and pick up experience or more education in the other area as your cafe/bookshop grows.
Ava, no matter what you choose, there are lots of things you can do in high school to get ready for your future venture. Think about taking elective classes in business, finance, or hospitality management to learn the basics. Join extracurricular activities like cooking clubs, entrepreneurship contests, or volunteer at local cafes or bookshops to get real-world experience and insights. Also, look for mentors or pros in the field who can give you guidance, advice, and mentorship as you explore your love for entrepreneurship and cooking.
In the end, Ava, remember that the most important thing is to stay curious, proactive, and open-minded on your journey of exploration and discovery. Keep learning, seeking out new experiences, and honing your vision for your cafe/bookshop, and you'll be ready to chase your dreams with confidence and excitement.
ian villebrun
Correctional specialist
115
Answers
Mountain Iron, Minnesota
Updated
ian’s Answer
Start by researching the market, your competitors, and the expenses involved in setting up a cafe.
Next, brainstorm a unique concept and a catchy name for your coffee shop.
Identify a reliable source for your coffee beans and other necessary supplies.
Draft a comprehensive business plan for your coffee shop, detailing your objectives, tactics, and financial forecasts.
Seek startup loans or other forms of funding to financially support your business.
Discover a commercial location that fits both your requirements and budget.
Apply for the necessary permits and licenses as dictated by your state and local authorities.
Design a layout that optimizes your space and fosters a cozy ambiance.
Secure coffee shop insurance to safeguard your business against potential hazards.
Recruit and educate a team capable of delivering top-notch service and products.
As an alternative, consider opening a coffee shop franchise or purchasing an already existing coffee shop that's on the market.
Next, brainstorm a unique concept and a catchy name for your coffee shop.
Identify a reliable source for your coffee beans and other necessary supplies.
Draft a comprehensive business plan for your coffee shop, detailing your objectives, tactics, and financial forecasts.
Seek startup loans or other forms of funding to financially support your business.
Discover a commercial location that fits both your requirements and budget.
Apply for the necessary permits and licenses as dictated by your state and local authorities.
Design a layout that optimizes your space and fosters a cozy ambiance.
Secure coffee shop insurance to safeguard your business against potential hazards.
Recruit and educate a team capable of delivering top-notch service and products.
As an alternative, consider opening a coffee shop franchise or purchasing an already existing coffee shop that's on the market.
Jack D. Ritchey
Telecommunications Contracts
7
Answers
Dallas, Texas
Updated
Jack’s Answer
This is a tough one, because both skills obviously will be useful. My advice would be to pursue culinary skills, as I suspect this might be what you are actually passionate about, and that you think the business portion of that passion could pay your bills. I'm not certain about that, so disregard this if I'm incorrect. But I suspect that if you had unlimited money and didn't need to pay bills, you'd still like to have a cafe/bookstore where you cook. Based on this, I think you should pursue a culinary degree.
With that said don't panic if your bookstore doesn't open on day 1. The beauty of a culinary degree is you can still work in the field you're passionate about (at a restaurant, or catering service, or at somebody else's cafe/bookstore) and continue to hone and build your business skill set. You can learn the business needs by doing it, or by hiring somebody, or partnering with somebody who you think could be good at that. But without your skills and your passion, the business has nothing. I'd rather see you flourish in a field you are passionate about then pursue a business degree because you think it's safer.
But again, disregard if I'm wrong about your passions.
With that said don't panic if your bookstore doesn't open on day 1. The beauty of a culinary degree is you can still work in the field you're passionate about (at a restaurant, or catering service, or at somebody else's cafe/bookstore) and continue to hone and build your business skill set. You can learn the business needs by doing it, or by hiring somebody, or partnering with somebody who you think could be good at that. But without your skills and your passion, the business has nothing. I'd rather see you flourish in a field you are passionate about then pursue a business degree because you think it's safer.
But again, disregard if I'm wrong about your passions.
Michelle M.
Entertainment Industry
1902
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Ava !
I would advise going to college for a Bachelors Degree in Business. You will probably benefit from some courses in marketing, advertising, and accounting. The college experience will put you among people that could possibly be very important for you when it comes time to open your cafe. The more people you know, the more knowledge you will have about commercial rentals or properties for your business and you will get hands on experience in college with assignments and projects.
Speaking about purchasing or renting commercial space, you are very fortunate that your state offers small business grants. I have provided a link to a list of them below and you can become aware of them now and than again when you are ready to obtain a space for the cafe. Remember, they are Grants, not Loans, which means that you would not have to pay them back. You may also explore Free Grants for Women at https://freegrantsforwomen.org/grants-for-women-in-nevada/ and look into whether or not business grants are included. If not, you could probably apply for a student grant from them.
Tap into the Nevada Women's Business Center. They may have resources that become new by the time you are ready to open your business. I have left a link to their website below. Also remember to check with your local City Hall as well as the Chamber of Commerce for any resources that may help you get your business up and running.
I don't think that you would need to go the course of culinary school. You would most likely want to hire someone who is in charge of the consumables and they would have expertise in suggesting things. You would be the Manager and that may consume your time enough. That's just a suggestion, but go with what you really want to do.
I hope that this has been of some help and I wish you all the best !
NEVEDA SMALL BUSINESS GRANTS https://business.nv.gov/Resource_Center/Access_to_Capital/Grants_and_Incentives/
NEVADA BUSINESS GRANTS https://www.womenandminoritybusiness.org/nevada-free-grants-and-loans-for-minority-and-women-owned-businesses/
NEVADA GRANTS FOR WOMEN https://ambergrantsforwomen.com/business-grants-women-nevada/
NEVADA WOMENS BUSINESS CENTER https://nevadawbc.org/
I would advise going to college for a Bachelors Degree in Business. You will probably benefit from some courses in marketing, advertising, and accounting. The college experience will put you among people that could possibly be very important for you when it comes time to open your cafe. The more people you know, the more knowledge you will have about commercial rentals or properties for your business and you will get hands on experience in college with assignments and projects.
Speaking about purchasing or renting commercial space, you are very fortunate that your state offers small business grants. I have provided a link to a list of them below and you can become aware of them now and than again when you are ready to obtain a space for the cafe. Remember, they are Grants, not Loans, which means that you would not have to pay them back. You may also explore Free Grants for Women at https://freegrantsforwomen.org/grants-for-women-in-nevada/ and look into whether or not business grants are included. If not, you could probably apply for a student grant from them.
Tap into the Nevada Women's Business Center. They may have resources that become new by the time you are ready to open your business. I have left a link to their website below. Also remember to check with your local City Hall as well as the Chamber of Commerce for any resources that may help you get your business up and running.
I don't think that you would need to go the course of culinary school. You would most likely want to hire someone who is in charge of the consumables and they would have expertise in suggesting things. You would be the Manager and that may consume your time enough. That's just a suggestion, but go with what you really want to do.
I hope that this has been of some help and I wish you all the best !
Michelle recommends the following next steps:
Aly Lapating
Senior Marketing Advisor
5
Answers
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Updated
Aly’s Answer
Hi Ava - Passion is essential for success in your café/bookshop venture later on. While an entrepreneurship degree provides valuable business insights, culinary school equips you with specialized skills for menu creation. Likewise, understanding literature enhances the bookstore aspect. Consider both passions when choosing your educational path. Gain hands-on experience and seek mentorship to navigate challenges effectively. Combining passion, education, experience, and networking will maximize your chances of building a thriving café/bookshop aligned with your vision. Best regards.
Faith Sani
43
Answers
Updated
Faith’s Answer
Hi Ava,
Pursuing a degree in entrepreneurship could provide you with a solid foundation in business management, marketing, and financial management skills, which are essential for running a successful cafe/bookshop. However, attending a culinary school could provide you with the necessary culinary skills and knowledge to create a high-quality menu and differentiate your cafe from competitors.
Ultimately, it may be beneficial to pursue a degree in entrepreneurship and gain hands-on experience in the culinary field through workshops, internships, or other opportunities. This way, you can have the best of both worlds and be well-prepared to start and manage your cafe/bookshop successfully.
Faith Sani
Pursuing a degree in entrepreneurship could provide you with a solid foundation in business management, marketing, and financial management skills, which are essential for running a successful cafe/bookshop. However, attending a culinary school could provide you with the necessary culinary skills and knowledge to create a high-quality menu and differentiate your cafe from competitors.
Ultimately, it may be beneficial to pursue a degree in entrepreneurship and gain hands-on experience in the culinary field through workshops, internships, or other opportunities. This way, you can have the best of both worlds and be well-prepared to start and manage your cafe/bookshop successfully.
Faith Sani
Chase Mighell
Account Executive
10
Answers
Tampa, Florida
Updated
Chase’s Answer
While a culinary degree will undoubtedly hone your skills in the kitchen, a business degree can provide invaluable knowledge to successfully launch and operate a cafe. From understanding unit economics and inventory management to developing marketing strategies and navigating legal/regulatory requirements, a business education offers a comprehensive foundation for entrepreneurial success. Before diving headfirst into your culinary passion, consider arming yourself with the business acumen to turn your cafe dreams into a sustainable and thriving reality.
Adriana Arauz-Rosiles
Chef
1
Answer
Fresno, California
Updated
Adriana’s Answer
Hi there Ava,
I think both options are great. You will need both skills in opening a business of this sort. Going to culinary school would be beneficial to learn the very specific hands on techniques that you would need to provide an amazing product which would possibly lead to the longevity of your business, but business is a huge aspect of it that people leave out when considering this route. If you were to pursue your entrepreneurial degree I would highly recommend working in a cafe and bakery while doing so. I think with anything that we are educating ourselves in there is an immense amount of experience that you will gain after you break into the field. It’s important to get as much of that experience while you can prior to opening your own establishment. This will help you identify what you will need to consider within your own workspace, what you want to uphold as far as values and standards you’d like to uphold, and what you want to avoid in your workspace. If you wanted to do both, culinary school could be as little as a nine month program and can teach you about costing, portioning, and techniques that you may not be able to learn outright in a conventional coffee/bake shop. Going forward, after culinary school, it would be a great, and smart thing to pursue your degree in entrepreneurship. Those skills you will learn are just as important to maintaining your business as learning the trade. While pursuing your degree, work in cafes and try to work closely with the owner, or trainer to be able to absorb as much as you can in every station within the establishment. Even if you are someone who is working customer service, play off of your background in culinary and be very observant to what’s happening all around you. There are so many opportunities to learn more in the culinary field, both baking and cooking. There are very informative workshops that take as little as two weeks and these can be used to supplement and refresh a conventional culinary background to keep you sharp while going through business school. I admire your sharpness in acknowledging these two very large aspect of running your own establishment, and wish you the best of luck in all of your efforts to make your dream come true. There may be times where you feel it’s a lot, but these are the things we work through to pursue and give life to our dreams. If this is your ultimate dream, don’t give up! Keep your eyes and ears open wherever you go, and never stop learning in our ever changing workforce. You can do it!
I think both options are great. You will need both skills in opening a business of this sort. Going to culinary school would be beneficial to learn the very specific hands on techniques that you would need to provide an amazing product which would possibly lead to the longevity of your business, but business is a huge aspect of it that people leave out when considering this route. If you were to pursue your entrepreneurial degree I would highly recommend working in a cafe and bakery while doing so. I think with anything that we are educating ourselves in there is an immense amount of experience that you will gain after you break into the field. It’s important to get as much of that experience while you can prior to opening your own establishment. This will help you identify what you will need to consider within your own workspace, what you want to uphold as far as values and standards you’d like to uphold, and what you want to avoid in your workspace. If you wanted to do both, culinary school could be as little as a nine month program and can teach you about costing, portioning, and techniques that you may not be able to learn outright in a conventional coffee/bake shop. Going forward, after culinary school, it would be a great, and smart thing to pursue your degree in entrepreneurship. Those skills you will learn are just as important to maintaining your business as learning the trade. While pursuing your degree, work in cafes and try to work closely with the owner, or trainer to be able to absorb as much as you can in every station within the establishment. Even if you are someone who is working customer service, play off of your background in culinary and be very observant to what’s happening all around you. There are so many opportunities to learn more in the culinary field, both baking and cooking. There are very informative workshops that take as little as two weeks and these can be used to supplement and refresh a conventional culinary background to keep you sharp while going through business school. I admire your sharpness in acknowledging these two very large aspect of running your own establishment, and wish you the best of luck in all of your efforts to make your dream come true. There may be times where you feel it’s a lot, but these are the things we work through to pursue and give life to our dreams. If this is your ultimate dream, don’t give up! Keep your eyes and ears open wherever you go, and never stop learning in our ever changing workforce. You can do it!