A journey of transformation and growth
Written by Katy Nguyen, Bachelor of Advanced Finance and Economics
Shanghai, a city where the past meets the future, was the destination for an unforgettable study immersion program that left a permanent mark on me. As I boarded the plane, I was filled with anticipation, eager to experience the blend of long-lasting Chinese tradition and innovative technology that defines this bustling metropolis.
Embracing the unknown
Over four weeks, I had the incredible opportunity to intern at Niuyougu, a gaming consulting startup. This experience was a deep dive into a completely new area for me – the gaming industry. As someone who’s always been surrounded by finance and economics, I found the world of gaming to be a fascinating sector full of creativity and innovation. Working at Niuyougu, I learned about the intricacies of the gaming market, from market and user research to game testing. It was eye-opening to see how different factors come into play when launching games, especially in top markets like China.
One of the most valuable aspects of my internship was the mentorship I received from Lonny Sun, the founder of Niuyougu. Lonny's insights into the entrepreneurial world and the growth of a startup were incredibly enlightening. He shared stories about the challenges and triumphs of building a business from the ground up. Before this internship, I always thought the startup world was intimidating and filled with uncertainty. But seeing Lonny's passion and perseverance first-hand, I realised it's not as scary as I imagined. It's about taking risks, learning from failures, and constantly innovating.
Not only was my month in Shanghai an incredible work experience, but it was also a dive into a vibrant, bustling world full of new lifestyle experiences. Imagine landing in a country you've never visited, with a rich tapestry of history and culture, a language that's unfamiliar. Still, to my surprise, I adapted quickly. Within days, I was navigating the city like a local, using WeChat Pay and Alipay for transactions, ordering food from Meituan, and even shopping on Taobao—all despite the language barriers.
Expanding horizons
One of the most enriching aspects of this adventure was the people I met. My social circle, which had mostly been limited to fellow finance and economics students, suddenly expanded to include peers from engineering, law, computer science, and biomedicine. Their stories and perspectives were enlightening, giving me a broader view of the world.
Meeting UQ alumni in Shanghai was particularly inspiring. Their diverse backgrounds in technology, business, teaching, and event organization, exemplified the power of taking risks and embracing new experiences. Their stories encouraged me to push my boundaries, whether trying exotic food or initiating conversations with strangers—something I used to find intimidating. I also connected with two Chinese finance students who had relocated to Shanghai for internships. Their insights into China's academic culture and the local job market were invaluable.
Breaking out of my shell
Before Shanghai, I was an introvert who shied away from the spotlight. Public speaking? Networking? Trying something new? These were all things I avoided. But a pivotal moment came when I had the opportunity to present at a Gaming Industry workshop organized by Niuyougu and Caohejing Hi-Tech Park. Despite my nerves, I volunteered to share my work on market and user research in the Vietnamese gaming industry. Standing in front of an audience that included UQ and East China Normal University students, and my colleagues, I delivered a 10-minute presentation. To my amazement, it went far better than I had anticipated. The positive feedback was a huge confidence boost. This experience was a game-changer, making it easier for me to voice my ideas and connect with others.
A lasting impact
This immersion experience has been a cornerstone of my university journey. The connections I've made with new friends and remarkable individuals are invaluable. Most importantly, this experience boosted my self-confidence. It helped me grow, evolving into a more confident and articulate person.
The Shanghai Startup AdVenture was more than just a trip, it was a journey into self-discovery and personal growth. It taught me the value of stepping out of my comfort zone and embracing new challenges, opening my eyes to the vast possibilities awaiting those willing to take a chance.
I just want to say a big thank you to UQ Ventures team, especially to Fi and Nimrod for the amazing experience in Shanghai! The Shanghai Startup AdVenture was a game-changer for me. From the pre-departure sessions to the awesome Chinese Culture workshop, you made sure I was ready for everything.
For other students, if you're considering stepping out of your comfort zone and immersing yourself in a new culture, I can't recommend the UQ Shanghai Startup AdVenture enough. It's an incredible opportunity to gain hands-on experience in a vibrant and dynamic city, meet like-minded students, and learn from industry professionals. Whether you're interested in entrepreneurship, want to explore a new industry, or just love a good adventure, this program has something for everyone.