My journey at Columbia University was not just about acquiring a Master of Science in Technology Management; it was about metamorphosis. The program, with its unique blend of technology and management, was the crucible in which my entrepreneurial spirit was forged and refined.

The Entrepreneurial Spirit of Columbia

Columbia University's M.S. in Technology Management is renowned not just for its academic rigor but for its entrepreneurial ethos. The program is designed to nurture and empower the next generation of tech leaders, and it's no surprise that many of its graduates, including myself, have ventured into the world of startups. The environment at Columbia is electric, with a palpable sense of innovation in the air. It's a place where ideas are born, challenged, and refined into viable business ventures.

Courses like Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence and Modern Database Architecture provided the technical foundation while Raising Capital and Finance for Technology Managers equipped me with the financial acumen to navigate the challenging waters of startup financing. But it was the Technology Management Capstone that truly encapsulated the program's essence, allowing me to apply all I had learned in a real-world context.

Becoming a Product Management Leader

While the program laid the groundwork, my involvement in various clubs and societies at Columbia further honed my leadership skills. Serving as the Vice President of the Product Management Club and holding positions in the Emerging Industries Consulting Group and the Columbia Technology Management Association provided invaluable experiences. These roles not only expanded my professional network but also offered insights into the practical aspects of product management and leadership.

LiveRoom Media: A Dream Realized

Perhaps the most significant testament to my growth at Columbia was the creation of my startup, LiveRoom Media. Conceiving and nurturing a startup while navigating a demanding academic program was no small feat. Yet, the support, resources, and mentorship I received at Columbia made it possible. LiveRoom Media was not just a business venture; it was a manifestation of all I had learned and experienced during my time at the university.

It's worth noting that my story is not unique. The M.S. in Technology Management program at Columbia has been the launchpad for numerous entrepreneurs, with many of my peers also successfully launching their ventures. This shared entrepreneurial journey created a sense of camaraderie and mutual support that I cherish to this day.

In Retrospect

Looking back, my time at Columbia University was transformative. It shaped me into an entrepreneur, a product management leader, and, most importantly, a lifelong learner. The skills, experiences, and connections I forged there continue to influence my decisions and drive my ambitions. The journey from a student to an entrepreneur was challenging, exhilarating, and profoundly rewarding, and I owe a significant part of my success to the foundation laid at Columbia University.

While my time at Columbia University was transformative, it was built upon a foundation laid during my undergraduate years at NYU and NYU Shanghai. The experiences, lessons, and growth I underwent at NYU were instrumental in shaping my path toward Columbia and beyond. I invite you to delve into my NYU journey, where the initial seeds of my passion for product management and entrepreneurship were sown. Discover how NYU set the stage for my subsequent endeavors and achievements at Columbia here.