As a biological engineering major, Yara has researched different biological processes and looming questions in the field while taking technical classes to increase her knowledge of the topics. However, her internship at Hikma Ventures in Amman, Jordan taught her so much she could never learn in a classroom setting. Since the Hikma Ventures team was only made up of three people, the general environment was “all hands on deck” for every assignment. This meant that Yara was really able to experience all the aspects of venture capital, whether that be reviewing the slide decks of different companies, holding calls for potential investments to pitch their ideas, or presenting important information to the company’s top executives.
Having very little prior interaction with investing, Yara learned key skills over the duration of her internship. She learned about the analysis of pre and post money valuations, the process of joining a round, and major aspects that VCs look for in deciding whether to invest. Overall, all the skills are very applicable to Yara’s future career goal of starting her own biotech startup.
Outside of work, Yara learned what life in Amman is like for everyday Jordanians. She found all the great fruit and vegetable stands, while becoming friends with the supermarket owner on her street. She learned about the restaurants all the locals love and was able to try them out with friends she made in the country.
