Vaishali: My Enterprise Experience

Posted on: 9 May 2024 by Richard Finch in Enterprise

Vaishali Panwar is University of Liverpool MSc Marketing student. In this post she shares her insights from participating in our Design Your Future Enterprise Programme.

Alongside her studies Vaishali is also a Student Representative, Student Delegate for the National and Liberation Conference, and a LivUni Mentor. She has recently taken part in our Design Your Future enterprise programme, and we caught up with her to find out all about the experience:

Which part of the Design Your Future Programme did you find most fulfilling?

The Pitching Competition—what a ride! But you know what? The best part wasn't about clinching the top spot—it was the journey. Each week, we'd gather for our viewing parties, soaking up wisdom from guest speakers and bonding over our shared passion for entrepreneurship. It wasn't just about the competition; it was about the community. The camaraderie, the learning—it was pure gold. From refining my pitch to absorbing insights from industry pros, every moment was a stepping stone towards growth. The competition wasn't just about pitching ideas; it was about nurturing them and watching them flourish.

What skills and experience did you gain from the programme?

I learned the art of storytelling—how to weave my ideas into a narrative that captivates and inspires. It was all about distilling complex concepts into bite-sized, impactful messages that resonated with my audience.

But it wasn't just about the pitch; it was about the entire process. I gained valuable insights into market research, customer validation, and business model development.

Each session was a crash course in strategic thinking, teaching me how to analyse markets, identify opportunities, and pivot when needed. It was about understanding my audience inside out—what makes them tick and how my product could make their lives better.

Moreover, the competition provided me with invaluable networking opportunities. Rubbing shoulders with mentors, peers, and industry professionals opened doors I never knew existed. It was about building relationships, seeking advice, and forging connections that could potentially shape my entrepreneurial journey.

How did you practise your pitching skills?

I used VR to fine-tune my pitching skills. It was like stepping into a whole new world—literally! VR allowed me to immerse myself in realistic pitching scenarios, honing my delivery and stage presence like never before. It was a game-changer, giving me a safe space to experiment, receive instant feedback, and level up my presentation game.

Plus, it was downright fun! I mean, who knew practicing pitches could be this cool? So, would I recommend Shortlist Me to other students? Absolutely! It's like having a virtual coach in your corner, helping you ace those interviews and presentations like a pro.

Can you tell me about your business plan?

Let me walk you through my business plan journey! Picture this: I'm sitting in the Design Your Future sessions, soaking in all the knowledge about design thinking, market research, and pitching. It hits me—I've got this brilliant idea for a stationery product business tailored for students. With each session, I'm getting more pumped to turn my idea into a solid plan. Learning about identifying my target audience and crafting killer marketing strategies was like adding fuel to my entrepreneurial fire. Armed with newfound skills and insights, I dove headfirst into crafting a comprehensive business plan. It was a rollercoaster ride of brainstorming, strategizing, and refining, but man, was it worth it!

Design Your Future gave me the tools and confidence to bring my entrepreneurial dreams to life.

Have you taken part in any other enterprise activities during your time at university? 

Apart from Design Your Future, I've dabbled in a few other enterprise activities during my university journey. One highlight was participating in sessions facilitated by Knowledge Quarter. I seized every opportunity to expand my business know-how and network with like-minded peers. It's not just about winning accolades; it's about soaking up every bit of knowledge and experience along the way.

What 3 tips would you give to students approaching their final year?

1. Start Early, Stay Organized: Trust me, planning is your best friend. Set clear goals, map out your timelines, and stay on top of your game. Use tools like calendars and to-do lists to keep things organized and stress-free.
2. Seize Every Opportunity: Don't just stick to the textbooks; dive into extracurricular activities, internships, and workshops. Every experience is a chance to learn, grow, and build your network.
3. Prioritize Self-Care: Amidst the hustle, don't forget to take care of yourself. Take breaks, stay active, and indulge in hobbies that recharge your batteries. Remember, a healthy mind and body are your secret weapons for success.

If you are looking to start a new enterprise or build entrepreneurial skills, we can help. You can find out more about what enterprise is, how to set up a business or pitch an idea, and hear from inspiring speakers at our enterprise programmes and careers events. Click here to find out more!