GRIP, Internships Abroad Ray Chen in the Sydney Opera House

GRIP: Business in Sydney

In my role as a research assistant under the guidance of Dr. Massimo, I delved into the world of colon cancer companies in Australia. Working closely with my colleague Noor, our days were punctuated by daily check-ups and regular meetings. While Noor focused on ESG research, my primary responsibility was to explore and dissect colon cancer companies, evaluating their financial and health-related key performance indicators (KPIs) to anticipate success and potential investment opportunities. This endeavor was particularly critical given the alarming surge in colon cancer cases, including among teenagers.

Stationed at both the University of Sydney Business School campus and the USYD MBA location in the CBD, I embarked on a data collection journey, utilizing resources such as Crunchbase, Refinitiv, and clinical trial databases. The process involved meticulously categorizing companies based on factors like intervention stage, technology application, and industry presence. This data was instrumental in constructing a comprehensive presentation that distilled my findings into a coherent narrative, ready to be shared with Dr. Massimo and his esteemed colleagues.

Yet, the path to this culmination was not without its challenges. The complexity of financial statements, coupled with the scarcity of data from smaller enterprises, often tested my patience. More significantly, I grappled with my own apprehension towards independent exploration. However, this internship taught me a valuable lesson: seeking guidance is not a sign of weakness, but a means of enhancing understanding and learning. Engaging with experienced peers and leaning on Dr. Massimo's mentorship revealed alternate data sources and strategies, dispelling my initial reluctance.

At its core, my internship revolved around the convergence of healthcare and business. The intricate interplay between assessing financial performance and gauging clinical significance sharpened my analytical skills. Moreover, it fueled a newfound passion for bridging these two sectors, manifesting in my entrepreneurial aspirations to create impactful solutions at their nexus.

Beyond the research realm, the experience took an enchanting turn as we dined at 6HEAD, feasting our eyes on the Sydney Opera House. This picturesque setting was merely a prelude to a symphonic marvel—a two-hour concert by Ray Chen with the Sydney Symphony Orchestra. The palpable energy, the harmony of notes, and the awe-inspiring surroundings created an indelible memory, a poignant reminder of the rich cultural tapestry of Australia.

Throughout my journey, collaboration with colleagues like Noor and the mentorship of Dr. Massimo have been instrumental. The camaraderie we shared and the wisdom imparted left an indelible mark. This internship underscored the significance of seeking guidance, embracing teamwork, and fostering personal growth. As I step forward, I carry with me these lessons, committed to continuous learning, collaboration, and the pursuit of excellence—essentials that will undoubtedly shape my entrepreneurial endeavors in the future.