Melissa Lim Seok Yu

*About Melissa

Name: Melissa Lim Seok Yu
Academic Year: 2
Degree: Business Management
Major: Operations (Undeclared)
CCA: SMU Ultimate Frisbee -Competitive (2012-Current, Exco - Head of Events)
Hobbies: Outdoor Activities, Photography, Exploring new places, Volunteering

*Why TSM South Korea

• What motivates you to join TSM?

I want to start my own technological company, but I do not have the technological expertise. I hope this TSM can help me find out more about starting a business that is built around the use of technology and expose me to the unique constraints and possibilities a technological start up can have. I see such start ups as a whole new realm that can open up new opportunities for young entrepreneurs like myself, and I want to be one of the first to delve in and explore.

• Why South Korea?

South Korea is one of the fastest developing country in Asia. It is fast becoming a central influence for Asia countries in terms of fashion, entertainment and technological products. I personally want to experience the opportunities available for entrepreneurs in South Korea and support and/or difficulties they face. And of course, experience their culture and check out their awesome sceneries and tourist spots. It's one of the most exciting and bustling country for anyone to visit in Asia!

*Seeking Internship Opportunites

• What types of internship opportunities interest you?

I would like to be able to intern for a company which provides me with the resources to try out new and daring ideas. Internships that provides me with the opportunity to pick up new skills and put me outside my comfort zone (with sufficient guidance) excites me as well. I enjoy being kept busy, and working in a highly challenging yet highly rewarding environment.

• Any ideal firms (based in South Korea) that you wishes to join?

I would wish to get a chance to work in entertainment and production companies like (KBS or YG Entertainment) and any company that supports an innovative culture and allows me to express my opinons and ideas.

*Starting A Business

• What types of business interest you?

A business that focuses on using innovative meeans to meeting the needs of people, instead of earning a profit. The business has to have a strong focus and prioritize it above profit. making. The business should also provide its customer with lots of platforms for feedback and allow the customer to feel like part of the family when using its products and services.

• What plans do you have in starting a business?

I plan to start a business that provides services related to the use of 3d printing technology as well as a business in the f&b industry.

*Past Experiences

• Describe your past experience (entrepreneurship, or works in start ups, etc)

My father owns his own business and I have watched how he developed it since young. Having been part of the risks he has taken to develop his business and the hard work he has put in (and it still putting in) to get to where he is today, I feel proud as his daughter and I aspire to be like him.

Since graduating from my junior college, I have been taking baby steps towards my goal. The first step I took started with setting up a flea store at *Scape, selling my second hand products. It was the first time I tried selling anything and I needed to take into consideration marketing strategies, pricing strategies and customer relations. The second step I took, I tried selling shirts designed by myself, and following that, importing and distributing MacBook decals. On both attempts, I failed to generate enough demands, due to the lack of proper considerations and time to properly set up. I am still taking small steps towards my dream and I hope this TSM would allow me to learn more about the success and failures of being an entrepreneur.