Interning with startups, as highlighted in the article in University World News on 23 September 2024 under a joint by-line, Samantha Dewalt and Sarah Leedberg of Lehigh@NasdaqCenter, offers students a deeper engagement compared to traditional corporate internships.
In these settings, students tackle real-life problems, collaborate directly with founders, and contribute meaningfully to the growth of new ventures. This hands-on approach allows interns to develop resilience, resourcefulness, and a practical understanding of the fast-paced, dynamic nature of startup ecosystems. Such opportunities encourage students to cultivate an entrepreneurial mindset, which can be pivotal for future career success.
Incidentally, the 13th competition of innovative startup projects, organized by the Sikorsky Challenge Ukraine ecosystem at Kyiv Polytechnic Institute, is set to take place from October 29 to November 1, 2024. This event offers a platform for emerging ventures to showcase their groundbreaking ideas, fostering an environment of entrepreneurship and innovation. Startups participating in the competition will gain access to resources and mentorship, while students involved in the projects will have the chance to apply their academic knowledge to real-world business challenges, giving them a unique entrepreneurial experience.
Both startups and students mutually benefit from these internships. While students gain invaluable practical experience, startups tap into fresh talent and innovative ideas that help them grow. The entrepreneurial spirit fostered in competitions like Sikorsky Challenge prepares students for leadership roles in the startup world and beyond, as they learn to navigate the complexities of early-stage business development. Ultimately, the challenge creates a win-win scenario, bridging academic learning with real-world applications, and shaping the next generation of innovators and business leaders.