How One Student’s Practicum is Shaping His Path to Entrepreneurship

Akhil Mitta has packed his Poole College undergraduate experience with high-impact experiences, from studying abroad in Prague and Australia to engaging in hands-on learning with the MIE 419 practicum. Each experience has helped him hone the skills he needs for a future business, but the practicum course, in particular, has set him on an exciting journey with a real-world startup.

Currently enrolled in the MIE 419 practicum, Mitta is getting firsthand experience in launching and running a business. Through this course, he’s developed a venture idea of his own: a scooter rental company. Working alongside his teammates, Mitta has been conducting feasibility studies, customer discovery and opportunity analyses to see if his business could become a reality. The course, held at Raleigh Founded, a vibrant co-working space in downtown Raleigh, gives him access to mentors who are successful entrepreneurs in their own right, providing him with crucial guidance and insights.

“This class isn’t just theoretical, we’re learning by doing,” Mitta says. “We get to work with real companies, solve real problems, and have access to professional spaces and mentors.”

Mitta’s summer studying abroad in Australia was another high-impact experience that pushed his growth. As part of his minor in entrepreneurship, he completed fast-paced projects like pitching a new business idea in just three weeks. Later, he and his team partnered with Marsupium, a financial budgeting app company, to create a marketing strategy for their product’s upcoming launch. In addition to gaining practical business skills, he had opportunities to network with professionals at companies like Treasury Wine Estates and Glenelg Football Club, gaining insights into corporate culture and the entrepreneurial journey.

“Working with real companies and taking part in speaker events gave me a better understanding of how business operates on a global scale,” Mitta reflects. “It’s an experience I’ll carry forward into future ventures.”

For Mitta, the practicum course offers more than just classroom knowledge; it’s shaping his career path. With a goal to launch his scooter rental business on a college campus, he’s using the course to build a foundation for success. In fact, he’s now exploring opportunities for funding through the Andrews Launch Accelerator program, hoping to connect with investors who can help him realize his vision.

“This practicum goes beyond what any other class could offer,” he explains. “The hands-on work and the connections I’m building are exactly what I need to make my business aspirations a reality.”

Mitta encourages other students to consider high-impact experiences, even if they feel daunting at first.

“Take a leap of faith,” he advises. “MIE 419 has been transformative, giving me real-life experience, access to mentors, and the chance to work in a professional setting. Plus, studying abroad was invaluable. I gained confidence, new perspectives and memories that will last a lifetime.”

With a clear vision for his future and the skills he’s developing in the MIE 419 practicum, Mitta is poised to make his mark in the business world. His journey serves as a reminder of the impact that experiential learning can have on academic and career paths. 

Want the experience of working with real businesses through a practicum course? Learn more about the practica offered at Poole and reach out to an academic advisor or professor to learn about enrolling.