2324T2 Silicon Valley/Participant Information/Shawn Thiah
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About Me 🥸
SMU email: shawn.thiah.2022@scis.smu.edu.sg
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shawn-thiah-606b78200/
Academic Year: Year 2 (2023)
Degree: BSc Software Engineering
Why TSM?
- What motivates you to join TSM?
TSM offers an incredibly rare and exciting opportunity for me to fully immerse myself in the heart of Silicon Valley, a place often considered the ultimate dreamland for tech enthusiasts like myself. Silicon Valley is renowned for being one of the most creative and dynamic tech hubs globally, and being a part of this environment holds immense personal and professional value.
What truly excites me about this opportunity is the promise of exposure to a diverse array of companies, ranging from industry giants to innovative startups with captivating ideas. Each interaction and every visit to tech hubs and innovation centers is a chance for me to gain a deeper understanding of the ever-evolving tech landscape.
One of my most cherished aspirations is to connect with the visionary individuals behind these companies—the innovators and founders. I'm eager to learn about their extraordinary business ideas and the unique paths they've taken to reach where they are today. I firmly believe that their personal stories are as remarkable as their ventures, and I'm enthusiastic about discovering the intricacies of their journeys.
This experience is not just about personal growth; it's about finding inspiration from various corners of the tech world. It will undoubtedly broaden my horizons and fuel my motivation to strive for greater accomplishments.
And, of course, I'm eagerly looking forward to savoring the diverse culinary delights that Silicon Valley has to offer. It's yet another aspect of this journey that adds a wonderfully human touch to the overall experience.
- Where would you like to visit?
Silicon Valley: OpenAI, Google, Apple, Visa, Meta and the list continues.
Starting a business
- What types of business interest you?
I'm genuinely intrigued by businesses that wholeheartedly embrace and harness the power of disruptive technology to challenge the status quo within their respective industries. What truly excites me about these enterprises is their potential to not only revolutionize traditional paradigms but also to instigate profound and positive transformations in people's lives. A prime example of such technology is AR/VR, which has the capacity to reshape the way we learn, work, socialize, and experience the world around us, its benefits will also extend to people with disabilities and championing inclusivity.
- What plans do you have in starting a business?
In terms of my plans for starting a business, my vision revolves around launching a venture deeply rooted in innovation. I am driven by a strong desire to contribute to the betterment of society and to help improve the lives of individuals. While the specifics of the business, including its industry and the exact nature of its offerings, are yet to be defined, one thing remains clear: I am dedicated to identifying a niche where technology can act as a powerful catalyst for positive transformation.
Ultimately, my goal goes beyond just building a successful business. I want to create an enterprise that not only thrives within its chosen domain but also brings about tangible, positive changes in the lives of the public. Fulfillment, for me, comes from knowing that my entrepreneurial journey is aligned with a higher purpose, addressing specific needs or challenges that enhance the quality of life for individuals and the community at large.
Past Experiences (optional)
Internships:
- Lumens - Software Engineer Intern : Years Jun '23 - Aug '23
Other Activities:
- The Teung Project 2023 - Member : Years Aug '23 - Current
- Metamorphosis 2023 - Community Relations Director : Years Jun '23 - Aug '23
CCA:
- SMU Business Intelligence & Analytics - HGS : Years May '23 - Current
- SMU Fintech Subcommittee - Developer : Years Aug '22 - Dec '22
- SMU Blockchain - Developer Committee : Years Jun '23 - Current
