2324T2 Silicon Valley/Participant Information/Rachel Thean
About Me
SMU email: rachelthean.2021@scis.smu.edu.sg
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachelthean/
Academic Year: Year 3
Degree: BSc Computing & Law (Second Major in Digital Business)
Why TSM
- What motivates you to join TSM?
Having run my own start up this year, I am interested to explore the dynamic world of technology and entrepreneurship. I am excited to gain hands-on experience, access valuable networking opportunities, and learn from seasoned experts. This immersive experience not only fuels my entrepreneurial aspirations but also fosters creativity and resilience, providing the ideal launchpad for my aspirations in managing and running startups. I believe that TSM would allow me to embark on a transformative journey of learning, innovation, and personal growth.
- Where would you like to visit?
I would really like to explore Googleplex, Apple Park and Meta Headquarters. Additionally, if we have the opportunity, I would also like to visit Stanford University and attend TEDx events. Besides the tech sites, I would also love to visit wineries at Santa Cruz Mountains or Livermore Valley!
Starting a business
- What types of business interest you?
I have always been interested in the education landscape and love exploring ideas of enhancing education through technology. As such, I would like to greater explore EdTech businesses that develop technology-driven solutions for education and training such as virtual classrooms and educational software. I am also keen on exploring AR and VR related technologies to better education through increased immersive experiences.
- What plans do you have in starting a business?
At the moment, I am running my own sports club in support of the nation's goal to transform Singapore to become an attractive sporting hub. I enjoy exploring the ideas of learning beyond the classroom and this sparks my interest in developing new technologies to support education in both the academic and physical aspects. While I do not have any concrete plans for the near future, I believe that the TSM experience would give me a better idea and understanding in terms of technology infrastructure and development which would be my stepping stones to achieve my aspirations.
Experiences
Startup:
- Aesthete Aquatics Academy Director: Jun '23 - Present
Internships:
- Drew & Napier - Legal Intern: Apr '23 - May '23
CCA:
- SMU Ambassadorial Corps: Jan '22 - Present
- SMU Broadcast & Entertainment (Artist Management Team): Aug '21 - Present
Sports Career Highlights - Artistic Swimming:
- SEA Games Gold Medalist
- Asian Games Top 7
- 12-time National Champion
Volunteering Experience
- Rental Hearts Youth Guidance Outreach - Education assistance for the less fortunate: May '22 - Present
- Nurture @ Farrer Park - Child Development Clinic: Feb '23 - Apr '23
Certifications:
- First-Aid + AED
- Google Digital Marketing & E-commerce Specialization
