Each spring, the Center for Leadership Education hosts HopStart: Hopkins New Venture Challenge. This annual startup competition challenges students to develop a business plan and pitch that plan to industry leaders for the opportunity to win up to $5,000 in prizes to support their startup. Beginning in February, over 70 teams of students write their plans and develop their pitches under the guidance of mentors before presenting their ideas on competition day in late April.
Second year MSIL student Bomi Kim competed in HopStart 2024 as a part of the course Innovation and Design. We checked in with Bomi to learn more about her experience both competing in HopStart and in the MSIL program:
Bomi and her team presenting their startup Heatsafe TouchGuard Senior to judges during the first round of competition at HopStart 2024.
“The Innovation and Design class allowed me to collaborate with peers from the MSIL and MSEM programs, as well as our professors. The class focuses on practical problem-solving, teaching us to approach and address business challenges with innovative solutions. It’s an invaluable learning experience that I believe will significantly benefit my future career.
We developed a temperature safety measure for the elderly to prevent burn injuries in the kitchen. This project is not just an academic exercise; it’s a real attempt to make a tangible difference in people’s lives. This experience is exciting—not only because of the opportunity to bring our idea to life but also because it allows us to work closely with like-minded individuals who share our goals.
My journey through the MSIL program has been both challenging and rewarding, filled with unique opportunities for learning, growth, and innovation. For anyone passionate about making an impact and developing their skills in a supportive and dynamic environment, I wholeheartedly recommend the MSIL program!”
HopStart 2025 will take place on April 25. To learn more about the competition, visit the HopStart website.