Hawra Khandwala pt. 2
Pronouns
Degree and Class Year
Hometown
Major
Minor
Entrepreneurship
What three words would you use to describe L&C?
Beautiful, Magical, Transformative
What Career Center program did you participate in?
CDEV 145: Internship course
What organization did you work with?
Sure Ventures in Mountain View California, USA
What did you do at your internship?
Portfolio Company Analysis: A significant part of my role involved analyzing portfolio companies like Coterie, Kangaroo, and Lumber. This task required extensive research to understand their business models, market positioning, and the backgrounds of their founding teams. The analysis was challenging, especially for companies with less public presence. Research on Emerging Trends: I conducted in-depth research on current trends in technology, with a particular focus on the ethics of technology and artificial intelligence. This involved gathering data, analyzing reports, and synthesizing information into comprehensive research documents. Pitch Session Participation: I actively participated in over ten pitch sessions with entrepreneurs seeking investment. This duty involved evaluating business proposals, assessing the viability of ideas, and understanding different business models and market strategies. Podcast Project Management: I was responsible for managing a project related to the company’s podcast. This included coordinating with team members to collect sound bites and conceptualizing ways to enhance the podcast’s presence, possibly through YouTube.
What is your biggest takeaway from your internship?
Participation in pitch sessions and portfolio analysis honed my strategic and critical thinking skills. Assessing startups and understanding the nuances of business strategies and market dynamics are crucial in making informed investment decisions. The internship highlighted the significance of building and maintaining professional relationships. Networking is not just about forming connections; it’s about fostering meaningful collaborations and learning from others in the field. The relationships and mentorships developed during this time are invaluable assets for future career development.
How is this internship connected to your career goals and/or future aspirations?
Originally inclined towards a career in venture capital, the internship experience provided a broader perspective of the industry. It led to a shift in my career aspirations, steering me towards a more hands-on operational role within a startup environment. Specifically, it ignited my interest in becoming a Chief of Staff to a CEO in a startup, a role that combines strategy, leadership, and operational management.