Written by Mika Kato, Bachelor of Science/Doctor of Medicine
Participating in the Singapore Startup AdVenture program was a journey of discovery, learning, and unexpected connections. As a provisional medicine student, I initially questioned how my academic background would fit into the world of educational tech startups.
However, this adventure taught me invaluable lessons about adaptability, innovation, and the powerful intersections between medicine and technology. It also introduced me to a network of peers and professionals who became invaluable friends along the way.
Embracing the startup culture: A world of innovation and challenge
Diving into startup dynamics
Joining Flying Chalks, an educational tech startup, thrust me into a world of rapid innovation and constant change. The company’s mission to simplify the study abroad process by connecting students with essential resources and support resonated with my passion for educational inclusivity. Initially, I was uncertain about how this experience would align with my background, as educational technology felt quite different to medicine. However, immersing myself in the startup world demanded a significant shift in mindset. This pushed me to rapidly adjust, embrace new challenges, and expand my skill set in ways I hadn't anticipated.
Hands-on experience in marketing
A pivotal element of my time at Flying Chalks was immersing myself in the realm of marketing, a domain I had not previously engaged with in depth. My responsibilities included managing social media platforms where I crafted and scheduled content to enhance the startup’s online presence. This involved strategising posts to align with current trends and audience interests, engaging with followers, and analysing engagement metrics to optimise reach. I also spearheaded targeted email campaigns, which entailed segmenting email lists, designing visually appealing templates, and personalising messages to increase open and click-through rates. This practical experience in digital marketing was transformative; it taught me how startups utilise these tools to create compelling narratives and maintain dynamic interactions with their audience. The ability to analyse campaign data, adapt strategies in real-time, and understand consumer behaviour provided me with a comprehensive view of effective marketing practices.
Hands-on experience in business development
Alongside marketing, I played a significant role in business development at Flying Chalks. I was deeply involved in developing a financial budgeting model, which was essential for forecasting and managing the startup’s financial health. This project required meticulous planning to ensure accurate allocation of resources and effective cost management, critical for supporting both short-term operations and long-term strategic goals. Furthermore, I contributed to crafting project plans aimed at future students. This task required detailed coordination to align educational objectives with the startup’s vision, ensuring that the projects delivered value to both the universities as well as the students. These experiences underscored the critical role of strategic planning and financial oversight in fostering business growth and sustainability. Through these projects, I gained valuable insights into how robust planning and financial acumen drive success in a competitive startup environment.
Key learnings: Bridging medicine and startups
Interdisciplinary skill transfer
A critical learning from this adventure was recognising how skills from one discipline can be incredibly valuable in another. Prior to participating in the startup, my learnings obtained from the Bachelor of Science/Doctor of Medicine program equipped me with strong analytical and problem-solving skills, which proved useful in tackling the business challenges at Flying Chalks. Whether analysing customer feedback or devising new engagement strategies, my educational upbringing offered a unique lens through which to view these problems.
Networking and professional insights
A highlight of the program was a visit to Amazon Web Services, where I had the opportunity to network with Singaporean professionals who balance careers in medicine and entrepreneurship. This experience was enlightening, as I learned how these individuals leverage their medical expertise to innovate in the startup space, developing products and services that address specific healthcare needs. It reinforced the idea that entrepreneurial skills are not just for business graduates but are crucial for professionals across all fields, including medicine.
Building invaluable friendships
One of the most rewarding aspects of the program was the friendships I formed with my peers and colleagues. The shared experiences of navigating a new environment, collaborating on challenging projects, and exploring the vibrant culture of Singapore created strong bonds. These friendships provided support, enriched my experience, and gave me a network of like-minded individuals who I continue to learn from and grow with.
Why the Startup AdVenture is a must-experience
- Immerse yourself in innovation: The startup environment is a breeding ground for innovation, offering a firsthand look at how new ideas are developed and brought to market.
- Acquire practical, transferable skills: From project management to digital marketing, the skills you gain are applicable across industries and can significantly enhance your professional toolkit.
- Build a diverse network: The program provides access to a broad network of professionals, offering invaluable insights and opportunities for future collaboration.
- Experience the startup culture: Understanding the fast-paced, ever-evolving nature of startups prepares you for the demands of any rapidly changing field, including healthcare.
- Explore new career pathways: Whether you're set on a particular career path or exploring options, this experience can reveal new opportunities and interests you may not have previously considered.
A journey beyond expectations
The Singapore Startup AdVenture experience exceeded my expectations, revealing the untapped potential of combining medical knowledge with startup innovation. It taught me that an open mind and a willingness to explore new fields can lead to unexpected and rewarding discoveries. This experience has not only enriched my professional skills but also inspired me to consider future ventures that integrate technology and healthcare. I highly recommend this program to anyone eager to challenge themselves, learn new skills, and delve into the dynamic world of startups.