2324T1 Tokyo/Participant Information/Gu YaoChen

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About Yourself

SMU email: yaochen.gu.2020@scis.smu.edu.sg
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yaochenjasongu/
Academic Year: Year 4 (2020)
Degree: BSc Computer Science (Major in Cyber-Physical Systems and Second Major in Business Analytics)

Why Virtual TSM?

• What motivates you to join TSM?

I am highly passionate about Japan's gaming industry and eager to learn more through the IS404 Technopreneurship Study Mission. I am fascinated by how the gaming industry has significantly contributed to the Japanese economy. I am also eager to explore the opportunities and challenges in this dynamic and rapidly evolving field. I am particularly interested in communicating with tech entrepreneur founders to gain insights on how to start a start-up in the gaming industry in Asia. I am incredibly excited to learn about their experiences, strategies and insights on the Japanese market of startups and how they have worked with all kinds of stakeholders. Hopefully, I will be able to contribute to the development of the industry, both as a participant and as a future entrepreneur.

• Where would you like to visit?

Tokyo:

• Popular Companies: Nintendo, Sega, Mihoyo Japan, Sony, Rakuten, Canon, Square Enix
• Startups: Psychic VR Lab, SmartHR

Starting a business

• What types of business interest you?

Starting a business is an exciting endeavour, but it requires careful planning and consideration of various factors. As I think about starting a business, I would first consider my strengths and interests. A company that aligns with my passions and abilities would increase the likelihood of success and satisfaction. For instance, I might consider starting a food truck or a catering business. Next, I would conduct market research to identify potential gaps in the market where my business could fill a need. This would involve understanding the target audience, their needs and preferences, and the competition. I would also need to consider the business's financial feasibility, including the costs of starting and running the business.

Developing a comprehensive business plan would be crucial in starting a business early. This plan would include an overview of the company, target audience, marketing strategy, financial projections, and contingency plans. The business plan would serve as a roadmap and guide in making critical decisions and identifying potential risks and opportunities.

In addition to the above, I would need to consider legal and regulatory requirements for starting a business. This would include obtaining necessary permits and licenses, registering the company with the appropriate authorities, and complying with tax laws and regulations.

Overall, starting a business requires a combination of passion, market research, financial planning, and legal compliance. While it can be challenging, the potential rewards of creating a successful business include financial independence, personal fulfilment, and the ability to impact society positively.

• What plans do you have for starting a business?

Firstly, it's essential to identify a need or gap in the market that your business can fulfil. Conduct market research to understand your target audience, their needs, and the competition.

Next, create a business plan outlining your goals, strategies, and financial projections. This will help you stay focused and organized as you start and grow your business.

Consider the legal structure of your business and register it with the relevant authorities. Depending on your industry and location, you may also need to obtain licenses and permits.

Build a strong team and invest in marketing and advertising to attract customers and promote your brand.

Finally, stay adaptable and open to feedback. The business landscape is constantly changing, so it's important to be willing to pivot and evolve as needed to stay competitive and meet your customers' needs.

Past Experiences (optional)

Internships Experience:

• Web Synergies - Application Developer Intern: Sept '19 - Jan '20
• Grab - Technical Program Manager Intern: May '22 - Aug '22
• CoinHako - Software Engineer Intern: May '23 - Aug '23

Co-curricular activity:

• SMU .Hack - President: May '21 - Aug '23
• Coders Assembly - Mentor: Jan '22 - May '22
• Project HeartCode 2022 - Mentor: Spet '22 - Jan '23

Teaching Experience:

• Teaching Assistant for CS301 IT Solution Architecture (SMU-X): Aug '22 - Dec '23
• Teaching Assistant for CS102 Programming Fundamentals II: Jan '23 - Apr '23
• .Hack SpringBoot Workshop - Instructor: Mar '23, Dec '23, Mar '22, Mar '21
• .Hack Enrichment Application Program (HEAP) - Mentor: May '22 - Aug '22
• .Hack Certification Program (DHCP) - Mentor & Crash Course Instructor: Jan '23 - Apr '23, Jan '22 - Apr '22
• Ellipsis DM workshop - TA: Apr '23
• Ellipsis Java Workshop - TA/Instructor: Jan '23, Jan '22
• Ellipsis C Workshop - TA: Aug '22

Competition

• NUS LifeHack 2022: 2nd Runner Up
• SMU Ellipsis Tech Series Hackathon - Finalist