Week 4 - Top 5 World Problems

Illegal immigration continues to increase in numbers.The economy is suffering because of the lack of regulation, unemployment is up, revenue from tax has decreased and the incoming immigrants are hurting the economy versus helping, not being available to the benefits that are offered by the U.S.

Solution: A practical solution could be to propose a policy that allows foreign workers to work for lower wages as well as taxes allowing them to partake in the growth of the economy with still having restrictions. 

College continues to be pushed on high school students. The more students attend the more expense college education becomes, increasing the amount of student loan debt brought to students and their families. 

Solution: A practical solution would be to take a students financial situation into account when allowing the federal government to aid budgets, much like FASFA. However, many students are not dependent on their parents. Another solutions may be to either increase college funding, decrease tuition, and/or build programs in markets where jobs are needed so that each student graduating is guaranteed a salary and ample pay to pay back loans. 

Healthcare continues to be an issue for low-income families. Obama has implemented ObamaCare, because of this act households who lack healthcare are now subject to a tax penalty at the end of the tax year. 

Solution: A practical solution can be to encourage healthcare among households and educate individuals on how important it may be rather than forcibly have low-income families pay this new penalty. 

The legalization of marijuana. Although it may be not be a negative it has received a lot of negative feedback because of the societal changes, and health risks.

Solution: A practical solution may be to allow the changes to take place, analysis the use of marijuana and see the positives of the the usage when it comes to the economy and health related issues. 

Why did you select your "top problem" out of the list of five? 

There are so many "big" problems in the world, the reason I chose these five is because they seemed most important to me. I chose illegal immigration as my number 1 problem because of my analysis of how it effects the economy. My major here at the University of Florida is Food and Resource Economics, with this area I have learned how the market fluctuates with different factors are present. The economy is was essentially effects me, you and the world around us. 

What leads you to believe that your "top solution" is really the most implementable? 

I believe that problems do not fix themselves, and they certainly do not change overnight. I feel with implementing lower wages and still allowing illegal immigrants to take part in paying taxes/SS, it will give people more reason to weight out the pros and cons of staying here in the U.S. or even give them incentive to want the U.S. to be better since they are contributing to the economy. 

*picture taken from pinterest

Week 3 - Identifying Local Opportunities

"Family Recovering After Deadly Duette Tornado"

Article

Sunday, January 17, 2016 a tornado hit Duette, Florida. Jim Leonard, volunteer fire chief and daughter had come to the rescue to a house in their same neighborhood after hearing children screaming. Two adults killed, four children have been badly injured. Jim and his daughter immediately began to help, proceeded to do follow patient care evaluates on all that were injured. Scrapes, bruises, bumps, all having serious head injuries. The two girls children are still hospitalized since the incident but have moved out of intensive care, as for the boys, they have been treated and released. A close family friend, Brendan Betancourt, had heard of the devastating news and decided to create a GoFundMe account for the family and their financial issues for the weeks/months to come. 

Due to the tornado that hit Duette, florida, a children have been terribly injured, two have passed, and the home of this family has been destroyed. 

This problem has effected the remaining victims of the incident as well as the local community that has reached out to help the family in need. 

"One Arrested, Another Injured after wrong way hit-and-run DUI Crash"

Article

Saturday, January 23, 2016, a collision in Oldsmar, Florida has two drivers allegedly being charged with driving under the influence. At around 11:15PM near the Race Track Road intersection on Tampa Road, Damon McBride and Kimberly Sichterman struck one another head on. McBride driving his Ford Ranger headed eastbound into oncoming westbound traffic hit Sichterman head on, as she was unable to navigate her vehicle away to avoid McBride. Sichterman and her passenger were not injured however, once McBride realized what had happened he fled the scene on foot. Sichterman passenger chased after McBride and was able to hold him until the police got to the scene.

An automobile accident involving three people was blamed on the consumption of alcohol.

Both drivers involved in the accident are at fault and consequently have the problem of DUI charges. 

"Largo Police Warn Against "Molly""

Article 

During the first few weeks of January 2016 Largo Police Department have received several overdose cases in the Mid-Pinellas County area in Florida. The substance known as "Molly" has local police urging the community to be careful with this lethal drug. As mentioned in the article, victims have stopped breathing and have even had to be placed on life support. Largo PD has issued a warning against the drug.

The consumption of the synthetic drug "Molly" can be extremely dangerous and ultimately compromise your health and/or life. 

The locals that are consuming this drug as well as their families and communities are face with this problem. 

"Blizzard Cancels, Delays Flights at Tampa International Airport"

Article

This weekend more than 7,000 flights nationwide were cancelled due to extreme weather conditions. The overload of the extreme blizzards attacking the East Coast has given Florida a bit of its backlash. Travel plans have been difficult for a lot of the passengers whose flights have been cancelled and delayed to New York, Philadelphia, Boston, Charlotte and even Denver. Airlines have had to give passengers hotel stays for the extended time flights have been cancelled. Forecasters have predicted that travel should and will resume back to normal soon enough. 

Extreme weather conditions have made travel plans difficult for commuters. 

Airlines and their staff, commuters and their families are being effected by these conditions. 

"St.Pete Police: Boy Brought Knife to School, List of Names"

Article 

A 14-year-old boy at a St. Petersburg Middle School has been questioned by school officials and the school resource officer. Last week, the teenage boy whose name was not disclosed, was arrested for possessing a weapon on school property. According to detectives, the student showed the weapon to a few classmates, once reported to the teacher, the teenage boy was said to have not only a folding knife but a list of several names, he allegedly wanted to use the weapon on. The police department spokesperson did mention that the teenage boy had not directly threatened any student with a violent act. 

A 14-year-old middle school student was arrested and charged with possessing a weapon, folding knife, on school property.

The teenage boy holding the weapon and his peers were essentially affected by the incident, however the boy and his family along with the school are the ones currently directed involved in the problem. 

All of these issues/articles were read off the Channel 8 News website. 

Week 3 - Very Short Interview No. 1

Jenny Buendia, Owner and CEO of Zoe & J

Zoe & J is a unique brand that specializes in handmade trendy jewelry for women and children. Expanding her brand to the children's market recently, she has found that her up and coming ideas for her business has kick started in a new and positive way. Over the years her true passion for fashion has shown through her work. After her daughters birth, she began experimenting with crafts for young girls. So far so good! Her network has expanded to great lengths. She hopes to continue her empire, having her children keep her up with inspiring ideas for future success.

• What should my expectations be in this course?
• "Well, I would assume that taking an introduction course about entrepreneurship would open your mind to more than just principles and strategies. I would expect for your mindset about being an entrepreneur to expand and for the information you grasp to show you angles and perspectives of greater positioning for your line of work."
• What does it mean to be an entrepreneur?
• "An entrepreneur is a lot of different things. I feel that becoming an entrepreneur is much greater than partaking in a business position holding authority. You are your own boss, accountant, marketing specialist, product manager, and your own cheerleader. It is a tough job, however, so very rewarding."
• What do you think I should learn in an entrepreneurship course?
• "The most important lessons I can hold to my current position in my business would be time and patience. It would be great if the course you are in really instills in your  mindset that being an entrepreneur takes time. Creating a line with a quality product that is reputable is not to be taken lightly. It has taken me over 10 years to build my brand and I still have a long road ahead of me."
• What do you wish you had been taught in school before setting out on your own path as an entrepreneur? 
• "I studied Fashion Merchandising. What I went to school for was not all based on building an entrepreneurship mindset. Although since I have stayed in the fashion industry, my education has made my business more consistent with following trends, staying up with quality and customer preferences as well as high end brand recognition and mottos."
• What are the most difficult challenges you face as an entrepreneur?
• "I would have to say that my most difficult challenges have been catering to customers expectation and preferences. Women in general is a big market in itself, staying up to date with new style trends. seasonal changes and colors is a job in itself. Also, time, I need to risk hiring help so that I can grow at the rate I would like too. I am intimidated by that decision, we'll see what 2016 has in store for Zoe&J."

I have spoken to Jenny for years about her business ventures. I have seen her business grow from the moment it began. I can say that having a relationship with her has given me an insight on hard work, perseverance, and continuous persistence. I see how much dedication and time she has invested in Zoe&J and it truly is inspiring. It is an honor to have been able to interview a business minded person that has built a brand by herself in an honorable and respectful way. 

*pictures have been taken from the instagram of Zoe&J,  zoeandj.com 

Week 3 - "World's Biggest Problems"

Illegal immigration continues to increase in numbers.The economy is suffering because of the lack of regulation, unemployment is up, revenue from tax has decreased and the incoming immigrants are hurting the economy versus helping, not being available to the benefits that are offered by the U.S.

Solution: A practical solution could be to propose a policy that allows foreign workers to work for lower wages as well as taxes allowing them to partake in the growth of the economy with still having restrictions. 

College continues to be pushed on high school students. The more students attend the more expense college education becomes, increasing the amount of student loan debt brought to students and their families. 

Solution: A practical solution would be to take a students financial situation into account when allowing the federal government to aid budgets, much like FASFA. However, many students are not dependent on their parents. Another solutions may be to either increase college funding, decrease tuition, and/or build programs in markets where jobs are needed so that each student graduating is guaranteed a salary and ample pay to pay back loans. 

Healthcare continues to be an issue for low-income families. Obama has implemented ObamaCare, because of this act households who lack healthcare are now subject to a tax penalty at the end of the tax year. 

Solution: A practical solution can be to encourage healthcare among households and educate individuals on how important it may be rather than forcibly have low-income families pay this new penalty. 

The legalization of marijuana. Although it may be not be a negative it has received a lot of negative feedback because of the societal changes, and health risks.

Solution: A practical solution may be to allow the changes to take place, analysis the use of marijuana and see the positives of the the usage when it comes to the economy and health related issues. 

Week 2 - Bug List

1. Being in an area that is not clean for a period of time. Suppose I walk into a friends room and the area is not clean, I will feel uncomfortable.
Why does this bug exist? I have my on standards on cleanliness and since I have an expectation I do not fully understand how someone else can live differently.
2. I am from Miami and traffic has always been a "bug" in my life, especially when I am in a rush trying to make an appointment.
Why does this bug exist? Not only to people not know how to drive - especially in Miami. I completely think it is a waste of time to sit in traffic for 60 minutes.
3. I consider myself a straight forward person, when things need to get down and a partner lacks communication skills it really bothers me. When working together communication is key.
Why does this bug exist? I have had a lot of arguments, and past failures due to lack of communication, and I think to avoid difficulties with others communication is essential.
4. Walmart is where I have found the most rude and unhelpful service.
Why does this bug exist? Customer service is key to having a successful business, when I have taken the time to go to a particular location over another  I expect quality service, for my time and contribution to the business.
5. Life is not easy and no one is perfect. Everyone in the world has their own things to deal with and I feel that complaining is a complete waste. Especially when someone is complaining about things that have a simple solution.
Why does this bug exist? Because of my upbringing I have had to do a lot of things that I have not necessarily wanted to do to get ahead and to do better for myself and the people around me.  Complaining has never been an option for me.
6. Invasion of space is one of my biggest pet peeves. When I am at the library and studying for an important exam or when I am extremely stressed I especially like my space.
Why does this bug exist? The feeling of being smothered is extremely stressful and overwhelming, it stops me from being productive and focusing on my priorities.
7. My opinion on being an adult is having the  ability to follow your own path and to respect other people's opinions while allowing yourself to expression yourself and your beliefs in an honest and respectful way. Liars is a big bug for me.
Why does this bug exist? As adults we grow and understand that everyone is different and that we all have different opinions. Lying is not option.
8. Rest is essential. I love my sleep and it 100% bugs me if I wake up and am not rested.
Why does this exist? I do not feel like I can take the day if I am dragging around all day. I need to work to the best of my ability = sleep, rest.
9. I am all for constructive criticism, however, if for instance, a peer is criticizing the way I go about my life or the way I solve my problems in a negative way, I do not support it.
Why does this bug exist? I am a strong supporter of being better, working harder, and changes. However, because of past experiences with myself and with my peers, I do not agreed with having to understand why people make certain decisions with their life.
10. Respect is extremely important to me, in all aspects of life. There is no reason for some to belittled anyone. There are several people that disrespect and belittle workers at fast food restaurants because they feel superior.
Why does this bug exist? No one is should feel superior than anyone else, I have witnessed this kind of disrespect and it really makes me think of why people are so cruel at times.
11. If I do not have my school things organized/room I will not feel up to continuing my day, it is important for me not to feel disorganized.
Why does this bug exist? I have noticed from prior experiences that the outcome of being organized is most successful.
12. I like to surround myself with proactive people. My mother has raised me to always be on the move. When I am around someone who is lazy and not willing to do their own work it stresses me out.
Why does this bug exist? Although I am lazy at times, I do not like the feeling of being unproductive and it will reflect on on work.
13. I feel that initiative comes with being proactive. Last week a friend had a problem with their car and instead of fixing the issue, they waited it out until the problem worsened.
Why does this bug exist?  I am fast to react on my issues and I have a hard time with others let things linger.
14. Inconsiderate people who do not take other peoples time or feeling into account. Everyone has a schedule and plenty of things to do.
Why does this bug exist? I do not impose myself on others and growing up I had this issue with family members, since becoming a young -busy adult I have noticed how much more cautious I am with peoples time and schedule.
15. I am easily stressed and as much as I would love to relax I do not, and it truly bugs me. My stress and anxiety levels.
Why does this bug exist? Stress has been part of my life as since a ver y young age. Coping with stress is not the easiest thing for me. This generally exist because I have high expectations for myself and my work.
16. Waiting for the bus, especially the 117 route, the most unreliable times!
Why does this bug exist? Generally, while in college at the University of Florida the majority of students take the bus. The 117, has given me the most trouble. the rider app is terrible and not consistent.
17. Spending money on products that are not of quality that are easily ruined or broken.
Why does this bug exist? I have worked since high school and for that reason I know the value of hard work and earning. For this reason, I am cautious of my spending habits and my budget.
18. When the 1st of the month comes I know theres a new batch of bills to be paid.
Why does this bug exist? This bug will exist forever and for everyone. It exist because life exist.....terrible.
19. Walking into a doctors office, waiting 2 hours for the doctor to see you for 5 minutes and tell you absolutely nothing that is of value.
Why does this bug exist? I hate the feeling of wasting my time and that is exactly what you do in this situation.
20. I wish to help as many people in the world. I wish to help with community development and equality issues. Above all though, I wish to help my parents the most I can, and as of right now being a student does not allow me to do so. This is one of my greatest bothers.
Why does this bug exist? My parents are sick and I am away from home. I wish to spend more time with them and to help them more on a daily with bills, errands, etc. I hate to feel that others are struggling and I cannot do anything to help.

Reflection:
I would have to say that the only difficulty I had with putting together this "bug list", was the angle that Professor Pryor wanted us to address. Should this have been personal bugs? market-product bugs? people around us? business prospective bugs? I have a good amount of "bugs". I did not want to get too personal. When getting to 15, I was blank and had trouble with at least 5-6 "bugs". As for the existence of my "bugs", I tried to the best of my ability to communicate why it was that they existed to me.

*picture from pinterest

Week 2 - Introduction

I am a 23 year old, female with a Cuban background. I am extremely close to my mother and sister. I love my step-dad and our new bound relationship. I am a daughter. I am aunt and godmother. I am a granddaughter. My family is open minded and very accepting of others' points of view. Amongst it all, all families have their issues. All in all, I am blessed to be where I am, who I am, and surrounded by those I love. 

I dream of success. However, success is different for everyone. My success will be to be happy, fulfilled and consumed by the things I love. Money is not always intertwined with success, I would love to have enough to sustain my lifestyle, to live comfortably and to take care of my family. So yes - money falls into my success, for not only me but for my loved ones as well. 

I want to travel the whole world and learn as much as I can about different cultures, religions, traditions and ways of life. I hope that studying economics opens my doors to community development and helping as many people as I can that cross my path. I hope to one day be an entrepreneur. 

* picture from Pinterest

Week 2 - My Entrepreneurship Story

From a very young age my mother always made sure I knew the value of hard work, implementing work ethic and professionalism into the structure of my childhood. My mother was a successful entrepreneur, opening her own property management company. Although the business was only active for about 10 years, it was her biggest success. It was incredible to see a business pick up from zero. Driven from day one, she built the company in all aspects with her skills and expertise. She was able to begin working the majority of the positions needed to sustain her order of work. As her clientele grew she could not wear all the hats. My step dad became site manager to the properties, my sister became her assistant, an employee was hired to handle the reception area and another the accounting sector of the business. After years of successes and failures, business consumed her and risk became an option. Introducing the company to an LLC position it was brought to a holt. Unfortunately, soon after the company had seized. 

Why did I choose to participate in ENT3003? I had a great influence from my mother when selecting a minor. I myself hope to create something of my own one day. In hopes for such a great success, I thought that the most important part of living out a goal is your frame of mind. I wanted to learn the true principles of an entrepreneur.  

* picture from Pinterest.

Week 2 - The Entrepreneur's Mantra

Week 1 - Introduction

First post!

Hello, my name is Aviana and I am a fourth year Food and Resource Economics student.