Masters in Innovation Management and Entrepreneurship

What company do you currently work for? What is your title?

Founder of Siege and Research and Teaching Assistant at Brown University

Tell us about your job (responsibilities, projects worked on, etc.)

Currently, I hold the position of a Research and Teaching Assistant at Brown University while simultaneously focusing on the development of my startup. As a Research Assistant working under the guidance of Prof. Patrick McHugh, our primary objective is to investigate the distinctive dynamics of deception in a business context compared to other forms of lying. Additionally, we explore how contemporary motivations, interconnectivity, and organizational identification may foster the emergence of neo-tribal cultures, consequently leading to an increase in dishonest behavior.

My startup, named Siege, is dedicated to revolutionizing and leveraging retail trading engagement through a collective approach to due diligence. Our fundamental belief is that democratizing finance for all entails providing easy access to exceptional tips and advice, which is precisely the niche that Siege aims to fulfill.

How do the skills you learned in PRIME impact/enhance your career?

The PRIME program equipped me with valuable skills for today's innovation-driven and entrepreneurial landscape. I learned technology commercialization to transform ideas into business opportunities, developed an entrepreneurial mindset fostering creativity and adaptability, and gained a comprehensive understanding of management and entrepreneurship through a rigorous curriculum. The program provided core business skills in finance, strategy, marketing, decision making, globalization, and management that really enhanced my entrepreneurial success. 

Did you pursue a start up company after the program? If yes, tell us about it. 

Siege is dedicated to revolutionizing and leveraging retail trading engagement through a collective approach to due diligence. Our fundamental belief is that democratizing finance for all entails providing easy access to exceptional tips and advice, which is precisely the niche that Siege aims to fulfill.

What was the highlight of your experience at Brown and or PRIME?

One of the most significant highlights of the PRIME program for me was the week-long trip to the San Francisco Bay area. This immersive experience allowed me to interact with entrepreneurs, company executives, representatives, and technologists from various industries. The trip provided great insights into real-world innovation and entrepreneurship, and the opportunity to witness successful ventures and companies in action. Meeting inspiring entrepreneurs and hearing about their personal journeys firsthand motivated me and reinforced my passion for innovation. 

What advice would you give to young professionals entering the program?

I encourage you to fully embrace the multidisciplinary approach of the program. Take advantage of the diverse curriculum and actively engage in courses and activities outside your primary field of expertise. This will help you develop a well-rounded skill set.

Active participation is key. Make the most of class discussions, group projects, and PRIME/Brown related events. By actively engaging with your peers, you can learn from their experiences, build strong relationships, and expand your professional network, which can be invaluable throughout your career.

Make sure to leverage the career services and professional coaching support provided by the program and the School of Professional Studies (SPS). These resources are there to assist you in exploring career opportunities, refining your job search strategies, and developing your personal brand. Seek guidance and take advantage of the support available to you.

Apply yourself during your internship. It offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in real-world settings. Use this opportunity to apply your knowledge, develop important practical skills, and establish professional connections in your chosen field.
Overall, my advice is to fully immerse yourself in the PRIME program, actively participate, seek guidance from career services, and make the most of the internship. By doing so, you will maximize your learning experience and set a strong foundation for your future career.