CONNECTION

My undergrad experience at Duke University would have never been the same without the Innovation and Entrepreneurship (I&E) certificate program. As I reflect, the certificate program profoundly impacted my personal and professional growth, and positively so. I created my own “path” as a certificate student, focusing on technology, music, and the arts. In taking courses such as Arts Entrepreneurship and Social Marketing, my eyes were opened to the workings of successful ventures, whether that be as a music producer, social media influencer, or start-up founder.

The I&E program truly provided me with a unique opportunity to explore my passions through an entrepreneurial lens, in ways no other spaces at Duke could have.

One of the most rewarding aspects of the I&E program was the community it provided. The I&E program provided me with an opportunity to collaborate and communicate with like-minded students, faculty, and professionals. These interactions expanded my network and exposed me to different viewpoints. The I&E network extended beyond educational spaces, helping me land my first internship as a Marketing Strategist at a start-up, which provided me with invaluable experiences.

I have always wanted to pursue entrepreneurship, the I&E program solidified my admiration for the lifestyle. The program taught me to appreciate the diverse perspectives needed to solve complex problems, helped me understand the importance of resilience, and that failure is an inherent part of the entrepreneurial process - through setbacks, one can gain valuable insight. I have become more fearless, confident, and open-minded. Overall, the I&E program has sharpened and refined my mindset as an entrepreneur while further deepening my love for the arts and technology. I am forever grateful to have been able to take part in such an amazing program.