I’m a first-generation immigrant and was the first in my family to attend college. For most of my life, I’ve felt like an outsider trying to make sense of the world without a map. I’ve used books, media, and questions to build mental models to help me navigate the terrain.
I started college as a pre-med student who was on track to become a doctor in 7 years. I was a certified EMT, have spent 200+ hours volunteering in hospitals, and conducted microbiology research as a freshman.
Despite checking all the boxes, something didn’t feel right.
At the end of my first year, a few friends and I attended a startup weekend at Rutgers. We built a chatbot that made it possible for people to text their doctor’s office for appointments.
It was the first time in my life that I felt like I was creating value.
Until that point, I used to believe that practicing medicine was the only way to help people. It was the only way I knew how. That weekend, I realized that making things people want was going to be my way.
The following semester I switched to the Rutgers Business School, where I wanted to learn how to start a startup. I quickly realized that I was in the wrong place.
Everyone around me was too busy trying to get a job at a big company.
As a competitive student, I started to check boxes again. I was president of the entrepreneurship society, worked full-time at startups while balancing a rigorous course-load, and landed an internship at a FAANG company.
Again, like medicine, I realized this path didn’t excite me.
I reneged my offer and eventually decided to drop out.
Afterwards, I continued work at startups full-time while tinkering with new ideas in my free time.
I’ve mostly worked at venture-backed companies in product, operations, and growth marketing functions as an early team member.
Outside of the office, find me: reading, hosting dinners, writing, learning new skills, or listening to a podcast.
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As of January 1st, 2020, I moved to San Francisco.
If you’ve made it this far, let’s talk. I’d love to hear your story.
Still curious? Listen to parts of my story here.
