From pop star to case study: UC Berkeley course delves into Taylor Swift's business acumen

NEW DELHI: At the University of California, Berkeley, a unique course titled "Artistry and Entrepreneurship: Taylor's Version" has captured the attention of students by analyzing Taylor Swift's strategic approach to building her brand. The course, taught by undergraduates Sofia Lendahl and Miaad Bushala, aims to inspire students by delving into Swift's business acumen and the significant economic impact of her tour.

"Taylor Swift is a phenomenon," noted Sejal Krishnan, a senior at UC Berkeley. She elaborated on the economic boost Swift brings to local economies, stating, "Her tour has essentially revitalized so much of the economy and boosted the local economy everywhere she goes."

As per a CBS report, the course curriculum covers Swift's successes and challenges, including her efforts to regain control of her master recordings. It also explores the broader implications of her career on legal issues like artist rights and ticketing legislation.

Students in the course have expressed their enthusiasm and the personal impact of studying Swift's career. Will Grischo, majoring in media studies and art history, shared insights into the legal aspects discussed in class. "We've also learned about some of the implications she's had on legal issues, such as artist rights and ticketing legislation, which has been really impactful as well, because that's not something you see every day," he said.

The course has even influenced students' career perspectives. Angelique Zoile, a business student, remarked on the empowerment she feels from Swift's fearless career moves. "She's incredibly fearless in the ways in which she doesn't mind taking creative risks," Zoile noted. Inspired by Swift, Zoile is more prepared to take risks in her own career, aiming for a management position within five years, the CBS report said.

The popularity of such courses on Taylor Swift is not limited to UC Berkeley; several other prestigious institutions like Harvard and Stanford have also recognized the value of studying Swift's impact across various fields, from English to political science and gender studies.