Beyond Business: How Entrepreneurial Thinking Drives Success in Higher Education

Entrepreneurship isn’t just about starting a business—it’s a way of thinking that drives innovation and problem-solving across all industries. Whether in higher education, corporate leadership, or community development, entrepreneurial thinking empowers individuals to adapt, take initiative, and create meaningful change.

To explore this idea further, I had the opportunity to interview Freddy Euceda-Colindres, an Assistant Grants Administrator at Vance-Granville Community College and fellow Masters Student at Western Carolina University. Through her work in higher education, Freddy has seen firsthand how innovation and leadership play a crucial role in shaping opportunities for students and faculty alike. In our conversation, she shared her personal journey, pivotal career moments, and insights on fostering an entrepreneurial mindset within academic institutions.

What inspired you to pursue a Master of Innovation Leadership and Entrepreneurship?

My current job! I am an assistant grants administrator at a local community college in NC. Through this job I have been exposed to all things leadership and innovation given that we are a part of the college’s foundation. I want to be a better team member and one day be a leader in higher education. I thought this degree would be perfect to give me that foundational knowledge.

Can you share a pivotal moment in your career that solidified your passion for innovation and leadership?

Being selected to be part of the “innovators group” was a pivotal moment for me! At the time, I was in the financial aid department and I didn’t even realize that others saw qualities of an innovator or leader in me. It was that “wow” moment where I took a step back and thought about what my future career could look like!

How do you define entrepreneurial thinking, and how has it shaped your approach to leadership?

Great question! I think entrepreneurial thinking is about spotting opportunities, taking risks, and innovating to create value. It encourages a growth mindset, adaptability, and creativity. In leadership, this mindset has shaped my approach by promoting innovation, collaboration, and resilience. I am actively trying to foster a culture where taking initiative, embracing change, and learning from setbacks is known to lead to continuous improvement and success! After all, this isn’t a linear process and ups and downs can be expected.

What qualities do you believe are most important for an entrepreneur to develop in today’s fast-changing business landscape?

I believe flexibility and the ability to pivot are crucial qualities for entrepreneurs in today’s fast-changing business landscape. The market and technology evolve quickly, and being adaptable allows entrepreneurs to seize new opportunities, overcome challenges, and stay relevant. Alongside flexibility, having a strong sense of resilience, creativity, and a willingness to learn continuously helps entrepreneurs navigate uncertainty and drive innovation.

Have you had any personal entrepreneurial ventures, or do you plan to start one in the future?

I haven’t personally had any entrepreneurial ventures yet, but in my line of work, I frequently interact with entrepreneurs. I want to gain more knowledge in this area to better understand their journeys, challenges, and successes. This will help me connect with them more effectively and offer valuable insights in the future.

Why do you believe higher education plays a key role in fostering entrepreneurship?

I believe higher education plays a key role in fostering entrepreneurship because it serves as the cornerstone for success. It provides the foundational knowledge, skills, and critical thinking abilities that future leaders and entrepreneurs need. Universities and Community Colleges are stepping stones that equip individuals with the tools to navigate challenges, innovate, and build successful ventures, ultimately helping them reach the top in their entrepreneurial journeys.

What are some of the biggest challenges universities face in encouraging entrepreneurial thinking among students and faculty?

From what I have gathered, one of the biggest challenges universities face in encouraging entrepreneurial thinking is the traditional mindset and structure that often prioritizes academic theory over practical application. Many institutions may lack sufficient resources or support systems to foster hands-on, real-world entrepreneurial experiences. Overcoming these challenges requires creating a culture that values innovation, provides access to mentorship, and encourages collaboration between students, faculty, and the business community.

How do you see the intersection of innovation and education evolving over the next 5-10 years?

Over the next 5-10 years, I see the intersection of innovation and education evolving through greater integration of technology, personalized learning, and real-world application. Advancements in AI, virtual learning, and immersive technologies like AR/VR will reshape how students engage with content, making education more interactive and tailored to individual needs. Additionally, collaboration between academic institutions and industries will increase, offering students hands-on experience and exposure to current trends. This evolution will foster a more dynamic learning environment that prepares students for the fast-paced, ever-changing demands of the modern workforce.

What has been one of the biggest challenges you’ve faced in your academic or professional journey, and how did you overcome it?

One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced in my academic journey is being a first-generation college student. Since no one in my family had experience with higher education, everything was new to me. I had to take the initiative to ask questions, do my own research, and take chances to navigate the process. It wasn’t easy, but by being proactive, seeking out resources, and learning through trial and error, I was able to overcome these challenges and continue moving forward.

Can you share an example of a failure or setback that turned into a valuable learning experience?

A setback I experienced was when I applied to a four-year university straight out of high school and wasn’t accepted. Initially, I felt disappointed, but I later realized I was relieved because it wasn’t the path I truly wanted to take. I had applied because my counselors pushed me, even though I knew I wanted to go to community college—mainly because I didn’t have the financial means to attend a four-year school, even with scholarships. The lesson I learned was not to waste time pursuing things you don’t truly want. It taught me to be vocal about my goals and seek out people who would support and guide me in the right direction.

What impact do you hope to make in the field of entrepreneurship and innovation leadership?

In the field of entrepreneurship and innovation leadership, I hope to make an impact by investing in others and helping them grow. I believe the best thing a leader can do is focus on building other leaders. Success isn’t truly meaningful if there isn’t a strong group to carry it forward. By empowering and mentoring the next generation of entrepreneurs, I aim to create a lasting legacy that extends beyond my own achievements.

If you could implement one major change in higher education to better support entrepreneurs, what would it be?

If I could implement one major change in higher education to better support entrepreneurs, it would be to create more opportunities for hands-on, real-world experience. This could include more partnerships with businesses, internships, and startup incubators within the university. By providing students with practical exposure to the entrepreneurial process, from idea development to execution, we would give them the tools, confidence, and networks needed to succeed in the entrepreneurial world.

This conversation highlighted the many ways entrepreneurship extends beyond business ownership and into leadership, education, and professional growth. The insights shared reinforce the importance of adaptability, continuous learning, and fostering an environment where creativity and initiative can thrive. As we move forward in our own careers, it’s worth considering how we can apply these entrepreneurial principles to drive innovation in our own fields. Whether through leading teams, shaping policies, or mentoring future leaders, the entrepreneurial mindset remains a powerful tool for success.

Thank you Freddy!