Overseas Start-up Technology Entrepreneur Programme (STEP) Student Testimonials

Quantum Computing Deep-Tech Experience During my internship at a quantum computing start-up, I gained insights that bridged theory and engineering. My mentor’s guidance fostered a methodical problem-solving approach, persistence through challenges. This mentorship was a key aspect of my learning process, as it provided me with practical advice that helped refine my skills in circuit design and troubleshooting.

Venturing into Quantum Computing and Personal Growth While three months was too short to fully grasp all aspects of quantum computing, it was enough for me to get a glimpse of the company and myself. My supervisor impressed me with his work ethic, intelligence, self-discipline, kindness, and humility. Through his guidance in coding, ion-trapped quantum formulas, and data modeling, I not only gained practical knowledge beyond what school offered but also became aware of my limitations in workplace dynamics and efficient communication - things I had never noticed before.

STEP Journey in Data Analytics STEP equipped me with diverse skills and advanced my professional growth. The internship has not only bolstered my confidence and expanded my technical repertoire but has also ignited a fervour for data analytics and operational optimization. Overcoming challenges strengthened my resilience and determination, which will continue to shape my future in data analysis.

Integrating Technology, Finance, and Innovation Beyond my daily internship work, visits to a robotics exhibition, an autonomous-driving showroom, and Xiaomi’s Yizhuang plant allowed me to see the abstract concept of “smart manufacturing” from the classroom come to life. These tours served as live case studies, giving me an intuitive understanding of how technology, finance, and industry interact within an integrated ecosystem, while further fuelling my passion for the new-energy mobility sector.

STEP Into Global Horizons STEP has given me the ability to work in widely diverse fields, broadened my career horizons, and gained insights into firm management. The internship deepened my understanding of the challenges involved in managing a firm. The extra-curricular activities also provided a well-rounded experience.

From Reporting to Effective Investor Pitching Presenting at a networking event at Google allowed me to share a mid-term report with both my supervisor and an investor, inspiring me to develop a one-page pitch, and changed my understanding of how to communicate with investors and show a compelling narrative about the opportunity.

Taking the Leap with STEP: A Start-up Mindset One of the biggest lessons came from my supervisor. He taught me to use our own materials to create depth and encouraged a “fail fast” mindset, as it is the style of start-ups, and they are not afraid to fail. This completely changed my mindset. Also, working with colleagues from Italy, Finland, and the UK opened my eyes to different working styles and perspectives.

Inspiring Encounters with Founders and Entrepreneurs STEP gave me experiences I never expected. Our supervisor took us to several networking events, where I met incredible founders and entrepreneurs. Hearing their stories, their struggles, their wins, their advice, was truly inspiring. Also, visiting Google’s London headquarters was a surreal experience, and seeing how a global tech giant operates gave me a new perspective on what is possible.

From Lab to Market: My Graphene Internship Journey As a student passionate about the intersection of materials engineering and commercialization, this experience not only introduced me to cutting-edge graphene technologies but also allowed me to witness first-hand how scientific research transitions from the laboratory to the marketplace.

Innovating with STEP: From Generative AI to Venture Creation Inspired by generative AI, I joined STEP to transform ideas into ventures. Learning about Business Model Canvas and customer validation gave me confidence and a clear roadmap for pursuing future innovations.

Building Cross-Cultural Competence with STEP This internship enhanced my ability to work across cultures, communicate complex information effectively, and deliver practical solutions under constraints. It also provided valuable insights into applying media and communication across diverse fields, shaping my future career direction.