Interview with Corey McCraw
by Luis D. Cubero
Tell us a little bit about yourself.
My name is Corey McCraw, student at Western Carolina University in the Master’s of Science in Technology program. I got into this Entrepreneurship course as a technical elective in my program.
Where are you originally from?
Marion, North Carolina. It’s a small town about an hour and a half from WCU.
What do you do for living?
During the school year I am a graduate assistant. I do various forms of research as well as assist with classes and grading for some of the professors.
What is your favorite hobby?
Probably it would have to be playing guitar or maybe just music in general: playing, recording, and listening as well. I also play a decent bit of video games, like the Call of Duty, Madden and Halo series.
What is your bachelor’s degree in?
Electrical and Computer Engineering Technology, also here at WCU. It’s mostly the same program that I’m in now except it’s a lot more hands-on, working with computers and circuits while my current program is more of the theory and math behind everything.
You that have taken classes on campus, how is the environment at Western Carolina University?
I love it here. I did my undergraduate time here like I mentioned and I’ve really liked it since I’ve been here. I like the small campus size as well as the smaller classes. It overall tends to have a very laid-back atmosphere that fits with my personality. There are also some great professors here, which is one of my biggest reasons for coming back.
Why are you interested in entrepreneurship?
The whole “be your own boss” concept seems appealing to me, and the flexibility that would come with that. I was a little bit interested at the start of the course, but after doing interviews with the people that have started and are running their own business, it seems a lot more intriguing and possibly something I may try one day.
Do you have any entrepreneurial experience already?
I’d say somewhat. I’ve done a good bit of freelance computer work for people on the side, but it still has some of the same concepts as any legitimate business: getting your name out, being efficient and keeping the customer satisfied.
From your previous job experiences, what you think will help you the most in your entrepreneurial endeavors?
From the computer work that I did, I learned basic business concepts even though it was very small-scale. I learned the importance of word of mouth, in particular. I mentioned earlier about my job as a graduate assistant, I learned the importance of deadlines and managing time. My only other jobs have been a grocery store stocker/cashier and a WCU maintenance technician. In the grocery store setting, I learned the importance of keeping the customer happy and helping them with whatever they need. In the maintenance position, I really learned how important it is to be efficient with your tasks.
