6 Pieces of Advice to Aspiring Launchies

Embarking on the LaunchX journey is an exciting and transformative experience. We gathered insights from our alumni to help aspiring Launchies make the most of this incredible opportunity. Their advice spans from the application process to thriving within the program and navigating the startup world.

1. Stay on Top of Deadlines and Communicate Early

One crucial piece of advice from the alumni is to follow deadlines meticulously. Selim (17, Turkmenistan) emphasizes that deadlines are more than just dates on a calendar; they are pathways to keep you on track toward your goals. "Following the deadlines isn't just about compliance," he says, "it's about maintaining momentum and staying aligned with your objectives."

Selim highlights the importance of early communication with your team. "We had a bit of a delay with that, but now we're good. If we had met from day one, we would have had a head start." Effective communication from the beginning ensures that everyone is on the same page and can collaborate efficiently.

2. Be Authentic and Showcase Your Best Self

Authenticity is key during the application process. Vivaan (17, India)  advises aspiring Launchies to be themselves and be transparent in their applications and interviews. "Show that you are the best entrepreneur you can be," he encourages. This authenticity helps get accepted and sets a strong foundation for your entrepreneurial journey at LaunchX.

3. Utilize All Available Resources

LaunchX offers a wealth of resources, and the alumni urge future participants to take full advantage of them. Wonjin (17, South Korea) underscores that "everyone is super willing to help, and there are so many resources you can take out of the program. So take every opportunity you can." Engaging with these resources can provide valuable insights and support for your entrepreneurial endeavors.

4. Stay Organized and Proactive

With a packed schedule throughout the summer, staying organized is crucial. Vivaan emphasizes the importance of organization and making the most of instructor office hours. "Meeting with your instructors during office hours is beneficial as you can get more in-depth feedback for your business idea." Additionally, attending a maximum number of electives is highly recommended, as each session offers unique learning opportunities from experienced speakers.

5. Prioritize Team Communication

Effective communication within your team is vital for success. William (16, Hong Kong) relays advice from Kartik, a LaunchX instructor: "If you don't communicate, there is no team. If there's no team, there's no work. If there's no work, then nothing can be done. You cannot succeed if you don't communicate." Building a cohesive team dynamic through open and consistent communication is essential for achieving your goals.

6. Take Action Now and Embrace Failure

Nil (16, Turkey) shares a profound insight she gained at LaunchX: "It's not about the time you plan to do something. When you want to do something, you need to start doing it now." Procrastination can be a significant barrier, and the key is to take immediate action. She also highlights the inevitability of failure as part of the process. "Failure is a process of life; it's going to happen. It's just about going and trying more." Embracing failure as a learning opportunity and persisting through challenges is a critical mindset for any entrepreneur.

Your entrepreneurship journey is just beginning, and LaunchX is here to support you. 

Authenticity, proactive action, and embracing failure as a part of the journey will pave the way for success. LaunchX is not just a program; it's a launchpad for your entrepreneurial dreams. So, embrace the challenge, seize every opportunity, and get ready to launch your dreams into reality.