ESU Students Engage with Small Business Entrepreneurs

During the spring semester, East Stroudsburg University students studying business management participated in an experiential learning event during Small Business Day in downtown Easton, Pa. The event provided a rare opportunity for students to engage directly with local entrepreneurs, gaining real-world insights into small business ownership and innovation.

Students toured a variety of Easton businesses including Tandoor Grill, Easton Candle Company, Chocodiem and Jimmy’s Hot Dogs. They spoke with owners about everything from brand storytelling and inventory management to community engagement and customer loyalty.

“This was an opportunity for students to learn about the good, the bad and the ugly of small business world,” said Raj Mudda, owner of Tandoor Grill and Jimmy’s Hot Dogs.

Carol Dimopoulos, Ed.D., assistant professor of business management, emphasized the value of community-based learning. “Events like Small Business Day bring our curriculum to life. Students see firsthand how strategic thinking, resilience, and innovation work in the real world,” Dr. Dimopoulos said. “We’re incredibly grateful to the Easton business owners who opened their doors and shared their journeys with our students. Their openness and advice made a lasting impression.”

ESU’s Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, Margaret Ball, D.M.A., joined the class during the Easton Small Business visit. “It is so important for our students to hear real stories, and see the real products and work of these business owners,” Dr. Ball said. “Learning from people actually doing what they are studying to do is one way ESU strives to give students hands on learning experiences.”

For the students, the experience was both educational and motivating. Business Management student Raegan Wright stated, “I learned that it’s not going to be easy. However, hearing the owners talk about the risks they took and how they adapted over time to become successful small business entrepreneurs was inspiring.”

Business Management student Aziyah Norman said, “as someone aspiring to be a small business owner, I learned there will always be relationships in communities with small businesses. This experience provided a great lesson for me as a future entrepreneur.”

The event highlighted the value of workforce learning and the ties between ESU and the local community.

To learn more about studying business management at ESU, visit www.esu.edu/business_management.

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