Inspiring Iowa's High Schoolers: A Look Inside Business Horizons

For over four decades, Business Horizons, a high school innovation simulation, has been impacting students from across Iowa. The five-day program takes place on a college campus, bringing together students to create their own businesses. With teamwork, expert industry guidance, and strategic thinking, participants gain experience that helps them develop into future leaders.

Jackson Campbell, a senior at East Waterloo High School, took part in Business Horizons in 2024. He was selected to be a Student Ambassador for 2025 to welcome, encourage and guide students through the program. We recently spoke with Jackson to hear his takeaways on why Business Horizons and leadership experiences are essential for high school students.

What inspired you to initially join Business Horizons? “I was looking for something I could do over the summer that would provide me a professional experience as well as give me the opportunity to connect with amazing people. I suppose I ended up in the right place!”

What’s a standout moment from the program that you will never forget? “My favorite memory from Business Horizons would be the field trips. You and your friends all load up into a bus and you go tour actual workspaces and meet with actual experienced professionals who can give you advice and mentorship.”

What skills and insights from the program have you continued to use today at school or at work? “I will always value the time management and planning skills I learned from Business Horizons. In that small week you have so much you need to do, proper planning is absolutely necessary. I still find myself using these skills and I don’t see myself stopping.”

Were there any unexpected takeaways from the program that you didn’t realize were valuable until you had left Business Horizons? “The coolest part of Business Horizons was how they made me think. I didn’t realize it till afterwards but through our teams and problem solving I learned to think in more creative ways.”

How would you describe the program in one word and why? “I would have to say ignition. The week you spend working with your peers is like a wake-up call. The communication, teamwork, and commitment put into your work sparks a sense of creativity and confidence.”

We are excited to celebrate another successful Business Horizons this year and are joined with 60+ high school students, 70+ volunteers, and six Student Ambassadors. When asked why he was eager to return as an ambassador, Jackson shared, “Business Horizons is full of amazing people who genuinely want to see you succeed and that support is so important. I was so excited to have this opportunity to be part of that support.”

Stay tuned for more engaging opportunities for high schools to get involved, learn, and see firsthand why Iowa is the place to be. ABI