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Buffett's Journey: From Selling Chewing Gum to Amassing Global Wealth

By the time he attended Woodrow Wilson High School, Buffett had already launched several business ventures.

AT-Campus
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Ritika SrivastavUpdated: 6/19/2024, 10:31:00 AM

Warren Buffett, famously known as the "Oracle of Omaha," is celebrated as one of history's most accomplished investors. While much attention is given to his investment strategies, his early life and educational journey provide profound insights into his ascent to financial greatness.

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Buffett's educational trajectory began in Omaha, Nebraska, where he demonstrated an early aptitude for business and finance. Even during his time at Rose Hill Elementary School, he exhibited entrepreneurial spirit by selling various items door-to-door. His interest in investing surfaced at the age of 11 when he purchased his first stocks, marking the start of a lifelong passion.

After graduating from Woodrow Wilson High School, Buffett enrolled at the Wharton School but found the program lacking in practical investment knowledge. He later completed his undergraduate studies at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, where he delved deeper into business administration.

Buffett's pivotal moment came when he was rejected by Harvard Business School and instead enrolled at Columbia Business School, studying under Benjamin Graham. Graham's teachings on value investing profoundly shaped Buffett's approach, emphasizing intrinsic value and safety margins in investments.

After earning his Master's degree in Economics from Columbia in 1951, Buffett sought to apply his knowledge in the finance industry. Initially turned down by Graham-Newman Corporation, he returned to Omaha briefly before eventually joining the firm in New York City. His tenure under Graham's mentorship was formative, solidifying his investment philosophy.

Returning to Omaha in 1956, Buffett established Buffett Partnership Ltd., where he refined his investment strategy with a focus on long-term value and disciplined analysis. His success grew steadily, leading to the eventual acquisition of Berkshire Hathaway, a textile company that would transform into a global conglomerate under his leadership.

Warren Buffett's journey from a precocious child entrepreneur to a revered investment titan underscores his commitment to learning, perseverance, and strategic foresight. His story continues to inspire generations of investors worldwide, highlighting the enduring principles of patience, discipline, and steadfastness in pursuing financial success.

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FAQ

Warren Buffett was born on August 30, 1930, in Omaha, Nebraska.

Buffett initially attended the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania before transferring to the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.

Buffett studied under Benjamin Graham, a pioneer of value investing, at Columbia Business School.

Buffett established Buffett Partnership Ltd., his first investment partnership.

Buffett transformed Berkshire Hathaway, originally a textile company, into a global conglomerate through strategic acquisitions and investments.

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