After high school, graduates generally transfer to a formal educational institution or directly start working. Eventually both groups discover that they are working for someone else. They aspire to be their own boss and work to achieve their dreams. However, society wonders what makes successful people different. Many believe the difference is the level of formal education. Common keywords for success are taking action, being persistent, working hard, analyzing details and communicating. Additionally, you need practical knowledge or theoretical knowledge to be successful. Both take risks to pursue opportunities. However, one characteristic that both share is leadership. Almost everyone recognizes the venture capital organization Virgin, founded by entrepreneur Sir Richard Branson. He developed Virgin to include projects on global warming, media and airlines. He has an honorary doctorate in technology from Loughborough University. However, as a child living in South London, he struggled with learning difficulties at school and never attended college (Best Online Colleges). The late Steve Jobs was the CEO of Apple, Inc. and former CEO of Pixar Animation Studios. Despite being considered one of the most innovative minds in the country, Jobs barely attended college. Dropped out of formal education at Reed College after one semester (Best Online Colleges). Another successful entrepreneur and CEO who barely attended college is Marc Graham. As a young man, taking apart and fixing things was a hobby of his. As a teenager, Marc found work at a local repair shop called Dorman. He started as a tire fitter and worked in the service department. However, after just a year he switched to selling over the counter. This is where he found his passion, sales. ...... middle of the sheet ......ault). In conclusion, there is no definitive profile of a successful person. They come in different ages, income levels, genders, and races. They differ in education and experience. The result indicates that the most successful people share some personal attributes, including creativity, dedication, determination, flexibility, passion, self-confidence and leadership. Works Cited After Market World. American Driveline Systems names Marc Graham as new CEO. September 21, 2009. Web.March 1, 2012. Best Online Colleges. The 10 best CEOs who never went to college. August 31, 2009. Web.1 March 2012. Brault, Robert. Thoughts about self, loneliness and various things. August 5, 2009. Web.March 3, 2012. Graham, Marc. Interview. Telephone interview. March 2 2012.