Allowing students to have opportunities to conduct business in school can benefit them in the long run. It can be both beneficial academically, socially, and financially. This not only teaches important skills for teenagers but it also grows their responsibility, communication skills, and financial management. 

As a senior at Park Slope Collegiate, I’ve had first-hand experience selling my baked goods. I feel a connection with the people who make my selling happen. It’s nice to see different types of people come together and hype up my baking. It has not only built my confidence but it has grown my mindset. Selling baked goods has taught me the importance of having patience, respect, creativity and confidence. It’s more about self growth and expression than the money that comes with it. Many Park Slope Collegiate fundraisers have raised a lot of money by interacting with students and staff. Fundraisers such as  bake sales have raised around $1,000 each go around. It’s often around big holidays that gets the biggest hits. Students like to engage, whether it’s buying, selling or even supplying.

School should not be only about academic learning, but it’s also a place for growth within and self-expression. Giving students the opportunities to sell not only baked goods but their small creations opens door ways to their future and creativity. Not every student learns best through academics, but some discover their potential through the experience that allows them to be hands-on and express themselves. Selling on school grounds is one of those experiences that encourage leadership and ambition throughout a supportive environment. 

It goes beyond classroom etiquette; it also goes into adulthood. Understanding how to be a respectful and responsible person to customers can be a great boost to life outside of school.

Research supports these benefits. According to the Higher Education Review,  entrepreneurship education helps build skills in students such as teamwork, leadership, and learning value. Frontiers and Psychology found that programs and encouraging entrepreneurship can help boost confidence and motivation. This prepares them for adulthood.

As a student who has experienced the impact of selling baked goods, I’ve watched how it strengthens not only the community but our mindset towards each other. Schools allowing students to sell on school grounds open up bigger opportunities for change. Not only change within the school but within us students as well. It creates a road for us students to learn how to build off our independence and thinking. Tests and grades don’t only define us, but our talents do too. With the right support, the right community, and the opportunities, it gives students a better chance to discover who they are beyond academics.