Kalvis' Time in Portland

It is already Friday, 28th of July and this means that our “Leadership camp 2018” is coming to the end. These three weeks here in Portland have passed really fast. Our camp was full of many unforgettable adventures. During our first week we get to know each other, carried out surveys for the Portland Sea Dogs project and played a volleyball game called “Hot potato”. Our second week started with our project presentations to the Portland Sea Dogs team members. On Thursday, we went to Boston where we visited Harvard university, had a meeting with co-chairman and founder of Charlesbank Kim G. Davis, and visited the New England Aquarium. The third week was full of work to prepare for our start-up presentation on Friday. Of course, I have to mention that almost every day we had a guest speaker. Each of them shared their own experiences and were opened to all kind of questions. Fortunately, or maybe unfortunately, our studies are over and now we are going to New York and Washington DC.

How do you feel now that your time in Portland is coming to an end?

           It seems that today is last day of the first week but unfortunately it is already week three. For me those three weeks passed really fast. I enjoyed every day here – all field trips, guest speakers, lessons, free time, excursions, and of the course meals as well. It is sad that we have to leave this place on Sunday and we have to say goodbye to our excellent Program Leaders, CIEE staff and our instructors. Now it is time to start packing a suitcase and get ready for trip to New York and Washington DC. I am sure that I will remember this camp and experience gained here for a long time to come.

What has surprised you the most so far about the program and Portland in general?

            I am surprised that people here in Portland are so kind, polite, talkative and open. It was really easy to carry out our surveys here. In terms of the program, I was surprised that we managed learn about building a start-up and coming up with a plan of our own in 10 days. It shows that this program was well-organised and planned.

What are some important lessons you have learned about entrepreneurship through your session and the guest speakers we have had?

            I learnt what the Lean start-up methodology is, and it is important for me because I hope to start a student company in Latvia during next academic year. I am sure I will use my knowledge about this start-up methodology to help me. The guest speakers we had thought us that entrepreneurship is not “a bed of roses.” Each of them faced difficulties in their entrepreneurial career but they didn’t give up and showed persistence and determination, and I intend on carrying that with me. Lastly, our guest speakers pointed that we have to love the job we are doing because only then can we call ourselves successful entrepreneurs. Most importantly, it is essential to believe in our goals and work hard to achieve them.

What is one advice you have for future participants?

            Don’t be afraid and challenge yourself to take part in this program. I can guarantee that it will be wonderful adventure. The Global Entrepreneurship program in Portland is a great place to learn about entrepreneurship and improve your English skills. Besides that, you will make new friends, contacts with teachers, and make connections with guest speakers who are also entrepreneurs willing to help and provide feedback. Also, you will learn new aspects about the American culture – how to play baseball, American food options and overall be a part of everyday American life here in Portland.

-Kalvis Krigers