2324T2 Silicon Valley/Participant Information/Franky

About Franky

SMU email: franky.2021@scis.smu.edu.sg
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/franky-lim-2409/
Academic Year: Year 3 (2021)
Degree: BSc Computer Science (Major in Artificial Intelligence & Cyber-Physical System)

Why TSM?

• What motivates you to join TSM?

Joining TSM would me with an unparalleled opportunity to immerse myself in the epicenter of tech innovation, Silicon Valley. I am eager to learn from esteemed institutions through the planned visits and understand their role in shaping the global tech landscape. Moreover, the chance to network with professionals from top tech companies and startups is invaluable for my future aspirations. I believe that by understanding both the successes and challenges faced by the companies, I can gain a holistic perspective on tech entrepreneurship. The hands-on experience offered by TSM, combined with the skills and attitudes I aim to develop, will equip me to make meaningful contributions to the tech industry and society. I am motivated to join TSM to not only enhance my knowledge and skills but also to be inspired and make a difference in the world.

• Where would you like to visit?

Silicon Valley: Google, Meta, Netflix, OpenAI, Amazon, Visa

Starting a business

• What types of business interest you?

I am deeply intrigued by businesses that leverage cutting-edge technology to redefine and revolutionize traditional industries. Specifically, I am drawn to companies that push the boundaries of the status quo and challenge conventional norms. For instance, Netflix transformed the way we consume entertainment by pioneering the streaming model making content accessible on-demand and globally. Similarly, TikTok has reshaped social media by introducing a new format of content creation and consumption, driven by its unique algorithm and user-centric platform.

What excites me about such businesses is not just their technological prowess, but their ability to foresee shifts in consumer behavior, adapt to these changes, and create a new market space altogether. These companies don't just adapt to change, they drive it. They have the vision to see where the industry is headed and the courage to take bold steps in that direction.

• What plans do you have in starting a business?

As of now, I haven't solidified plans to start my own business primarily because I am still in the process of identifying a unique business idea and understanding the intricacies of operating a venture. i believe that before diving into entrepreneurship, it is crucial to have both a clear vision and a strong foundational knowledge of business operations.

However, my aspiration is not just to start a business but to revolutionize a field I am passionate about. I envision creating something that can make a significant impact and bring about positive change. This is where TSM comes into play for me. I see TSM as a stepping stone towards achieving this aspiration. By immersing myself in the world-renowned entrepreneurial ecosystem of Silicon Valley, I aim to learn from professionals who have been at the forefront of innovation. I hope to gain insights into how they identified opportunities, tackled challenges, and ultimately transformed industries.

Past Experiences

Internships:

• SMU - Research Assistant: Years May '23 - Aug '23
• Nested Technologies - Full stack Developer Intern: Years Aug '22 - Oct '22
• DAOFAB - Full stack Developer Intern: Years Dec '21 - Feb '22
• Immersive Experience Technology Centre - Frontend Developer Intern: Years Sep '20 - Feb '21

CCA:

• SMU AWS Cloud Club - Cloud Captain: Years Aug '23 - Present
• SMU .Hack - Training & Curriculum Director: Years Sep '22 - Aug '23
• GDSC - Tech Executive: Years Aug '21 - Aug '22

Others:

• Coders Assembly - Mentor: Years Aug '22 - Dec '22
• Patrons' Day - Web Technology Director: Years Aug '21 - May '22