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Spotlight: Alumni Story

By: Artin Rastegar, HUVTSP ‘24

My Experience as an HUVTSP Alumnus: Lessons, Growth, and Impact

Learning from Top Entrepreneurs and Investors

HUVTSP gave me access to some of the sharpest minds in venture capital and entrepreneurship. 

One of the standout moments for me was speaking with Mr. Thomas Deng, the former Managing Director and Chief China Strategist in the Investment Banking Division of Goldman Sachs. It wasn't just a lecture–it was an opportunity for me to connect with someone at the forefront of global financial markets. I had the rare opportunity to ask real-world questions about how investment firms assess risk, navigate market volatility, and identify high-growth opportunities. Instead of hearing generic advice, I received practical insights that gave me a deeper understanding of how major financial institutions operate and how investors think on a global scale. 

Beyond expert-led discussions, HUVTSP amplified my learning experience via the activities we did in simulating actual business environments. The Harvard case studies I got to participate in were intense, real-world scenarios where decisions could mean life or death of a business. Each case pushed me to think critically, weighing every factor and consequence (just like a CEO!), while considering how strategic decisions could impact the company direction.

Immersing Myself in the Startup Ecosystem 

Unlike traditional internships where you are given a small task, I was put in an early-stage company where I helped solve real problems that can greatly impact the outlook of the startup. I got to learn what market research, product strategy, and business development look like as well as apply that to my internship to influence daily operations.

Apart from the internship, one of the most exciting experiences was when my group and I were tasked with creating a simulated startup idea and pitching it to an actual investment firm. The fact that we were presenting to real investors made the experience feel worthwhile to me. It is like no other because I got to see what actual venture capital investors look for in a company. By gaining this experience, it will prepare me when my time comes to do an actual pitch for my startup.

Developing the Ultimate Network 

Beyond the mentorship and hands-on experience, the people I met at HUVTSP were one of the  most valuable parts of the program. I joined a community of ambitious individuals who share the same drive and passion as me. Even though I did the program last year, the peers I met are still collaborators of mine and have been greatly inspirational in my journey. Even the program coordinators themselves have been instrumental, consistently providing us with opportunities to grow and serving as a constant resource for personal guidance.

These connections went far beyond the program itself. Whether it’s sharing startup ideas or collaborating on projects, the HUVTSP network continues to support me, showing that the value of the program isn’t just in what you learn—it’s in who you learn with.

A Lasting Impact

HUVTSP wasn't just a program–it was a defining experience that reshaped how I approach business, innovation, and collaboration. It gave me the confidence to step into the startup world, the skills to solve real-world problems, and the network to continue growing beyond the program.

If you are eager to build, pitch, and learn from the best, then HUVTSP is the place for you. This program doesn't just prepare you for the future, it gives you the resources you need to start building it now.

Please contact tech@seas.harvard.edu with any questions.

HUVTSP is supported by the Technology and Entrepreneurship Center at Harvard (TECH) within Harvard University’s School of Engineering and Applied Sciences (SEAS). HUVTSP is also supported by Harvard Undergraduate Ventures, the largest student-run entrepreneurship and venture capital organization at Harvard. We are extremely grateful for our participating startups, world-class speakers, and corporate sponsors which have allowed us to make this program happen.

Terms and Conditions: By applying to the Harvard Undergraduate Ventures-TECH Summer Program (HUVTSP), applicants acknowledge that submitting an application is a request for consideration and does not ensure admission into the program. The application fee is obligatory for the processing of the application and is non-refundable, irrespective of the outcome of the application or subsequent withdrawal. The program’s offerings, including speakers and events, are subject to change depending on their availability and evolving circumstances. Successful completion of the internship and program is contingent upon students meeting predetermined performance standards, and HUVTSP makes no guarantees regarding specific results or achievements. Participation in HUVTSP implies a commitment to fully engage in the learning experience and an acceptance of these terms. Harvard Undergraduate Ventures-TECH Summer Program (HUVTSP) is entitled to and may use third-party vendors to administer and deliver the program.

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