College Experiences That Helped a Founder at Simran Nath LLC Succeed
To prepare for career success, Simran got "involved in everything," from working multiple jobs and participating in extracurriculars in college to starting a non-profit and a business while working full-time, emphasizing using one's skill set, not limiting oneself, and pushing oneself outside one's comfort zone to grow. A key takeaway was the value of experiential learning, especially at startups, where one can gain practical business skills that are often mistaken for an MBA.
Extracurricular Activities, Skill Development, Networking, Internships, Personal Growth
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Simran Nath
Founder/President
Simran Nath LLC
California State University, Long Beach
Communications
Technology
Consulting
Immigrant
Video Highlights
1. Get involved in many different activities and don't limit yourself. This includes extracurriculars, part-time jobs, and other opportunities to expand your skillset.
2. Identify your weaknesses and actively work to improve them by participating in activities that force you to confront those weaknesses, such as joining a debate team if you struggle with public speaking.
3. Seek out opportunities like internships at startups and attending conferences, even if it means reaching out to ask for free tickets, as these experiences can provide invaluable practical knowledge and skills.
Transcript
What did you do in college to set you up for success in your career?
I got involved in everything. I was reflecting on this recently, even before you reached out for this interview. My entire life, starting even in high school, I've always been involved in so many things.
In high school, I was working part-time, going to school, and participating in extracurricular activities. In college, I worked two jobs, attended school full-time, and participated in as many extracurricular activities as I could.
Later, when I was working in my career, I was employed full-time, but I also decided to start a nonprofit and a business. I've always done different things.
Use your skillset; don't limit yourself. Get involved and put yourself out there. Growth is uncomfortable, but it is so much more fulfilling on the other side. Push yourself.
Talk to everybody. If you find it hard to talk to people, learn how to hone those skills. Understand your skill sets and what you're not good at. Find ways to get involved on campus to help you break through those challenges.
If you struggle with public speaking, join the debate team. Get used to standing your ground. Mock trial is also fun; learn how to defend your point and speak in front of people.
Attend events like TED Talks and as many things as you can. Go to conferences. Many conferences offer free tickets to students who express interest. Work at a startup; you learn so much there.
I talk to my mentors now about the degrees I want to pursue in higher education. My experience at a startup has repeatedly proven valuable. People often ask where I went to business school, and I tell them I don't have an MBA. I learned how to run businesses by working at startups.
Those are some things I would say.
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