This is the inaugural year of the Marketing, Management, and Finance (MMF) program. To say that it’s off to a great start is an understatement. As we are nearing the end of the second quarter, we have built upon our knowledge in marketing and its logistics. So far we have also learned, not only educational skills, but also life skills that will enhance our day to day life, as well as our educational experience and preparation for a job in the marketing industry .
This program consists of two sections that both have double blocks. By having the extra class period we are provided with enough time to properly understand the concept of marketing and all of its functions, including hands-on, visual, and digital factors to help us better grasp the unit we are on. During this time, we work on a variety of projects such as podcasts, infographics, blogs, presentations, and newsletters. When we incorporate these projects into our class time we typically spend up to 1-2 weeks, depending on the size of the project, to work on them. Then we will present it to the class for a grade. The whole process is all a learning experience, and with every project there is a clear improvement from the last.
All of the school store merchandise is designed by the students themselves. We work together to critique
and improve each design, while learning how to give helpful feedback. We design online and decide which products will sell, while keeping in mind our target market and what will be the most profitable. We vote to decide which designs end up being chosen and learn to be flexible even though we may face disagreements. The merchandise created by the MMF students is sold in the school store and is able to be purchased during all lunches as well as period 3. During this time students learn how to manage money, count inventory, as well as form positive social skills and interactions. Students go down in pairs and have to work together to open, close and work with customers.
Along with all of the educational parts of this program we learn how to work with and build relationships among our peers. We work in groups, with partners, and even with other programs to help expand our communication and collaboration skills. This teaches the importance of sharing our ideas, working out problems, and connecting with people from different backgrounds and cultures. This program prepares us to productively work together in groups which is an ability you will need in the real world.