Contributed to a fintech startup aimed at optimizing cross-border money transfers for African expatriates. Key responsibilities included:• Developing a comprehensive DCF model to value the company and forecast growth• Analyzing cost structures and projecting future expenses• Modeling the impact of floating exchange rates on the platform's economics• Assessing banking relationships and regulatory requirements for international transfers• Creating and refining the unit economics model for the platformThis project provided insights into the complexities of international remittances, forex markets, and fintech startup valuation. The work contributed to a potential transformation in how expatriates send money home, balancing financial innovation with regulatory compliance and risk management.

Led diligence efforts as a Venture Capital Intern within Illinois Ventures' investment team. Collaborated with associates and senior directors to support investment decision-making processes and diligence for opportunities exceeding $100M. Developed and maintained sophisticated valuation models and financial forecasts for a diverse portfolio of promising early-stage companies. Contributed to the creation of investment theses and pitch decks for to the Illini Angels network. Assisted in deal sourcing by leveraging university networks and startup ecosystems, identifying opportunities across various sectors.

Sector Coverage: Energy, Healthcare, Financial Services

Served as a Business Analyst within the firm's $22B private equity technology team, where I was one of ten members tasked with managing and analyzing complex financial data for a diverse portfolio of middle-market companies. Contributed significantly to the development and maintenance of key performance indicators and reporting systems, which were essential for tracking portfolio performance and pinpointing growth and efficiency opportunities.

Reshaped the local gig economy, enabling students in Northwest Chicago suburbs.Key Achievements:• Scaled to $75K+ revenue, managing 500+ student freelancers• Completed ~800 jobs, implementing risk management strategies• Cultivated professionalism among young entrepreneurs while meeting diverse client needsImpact:• Created a thriving marketplace connecting local clients with student talent• Orchestrated time-sensitive projects, showcasing agility and resourcefulness• Fostered valuable work experience for high school and university studentsExited ownership due to hedge fund regulations during internship.This venture furthered my skills in operations, risk mitigation, and scaling a startup from concept to six-figure revenue, deepening my understanding of the gig economy's potential.

• Conducted primary diligence on 57 startup investment prospects ($1M-$25M Series A & B)• Co-developed a venture forum, connecting 100 startups with 300+ investors• Pioneered a 5-day virtual partnering platform, facilitating crucial startup-investor connections• Analyzed MedTech portfolio to identify emerging trends, guiding investment strategyImpact:• Developed critical skills in deal evaluation and diligence processes• Directly led a team of 5 interns from top universities, enhancing project management abilities• Contributed to shaping US Angels' investment strategy in healthcare technology• Facilitated connections between innovative startups and high-profile investors, including angel groups, VC firms, and corporate venture capital units• Oversaw 5 Undergraduate analyst interns from Northwestern, University of Chicago, and the University of IllinoisThis experience, under the guidance of Managing Director John Ricci, honed my analytical skills and deepened my understanding of early-stage investing. It provided invaluable insights into how VCs nurture innovative startups in rapidly evolving sectors, particularly in MedTech and Life Sciences.

Launched my first entrepreneurial venture at 16, addressing the home repair industry's talent shortage.Key Achievements:• Founded a web-based platform connecting skilled tradespeople with local homeowners• Secured initial funding and attracted 53 tradespeople to the platform• Generated a $30K project backlog, demonstrating strong market demandImpact:• Gained foundational knowledge in finance, marketing, and operations through hands-on experience• Developed resilience and problem-solving skills by facing and overcoming startup challenges• Cultivated a first principles thinking approach, learning to deconstruct complex problems and build solutionsThis venture ignited my passion for startups and problem-solving, shaping my future career trajectory. The experience taught me the value of failure as a stepping stone to success and instilled the importance of approaching challenges from first principles. This mindset has proven invaluable in my subsequent ventures and academic pursuits, driving my continued growth in entrepreneurship and investments.