Graduation Solo Adventure: Embracing Oahu’s Magic

As the cap and gown came off and the celebrations dwindled, I found myself longing for an adventure. A solo trip, not just to discover a new place but also to rediscover myself after years of academic rigor. The destination? Oahu, Hawaii - an island paradise that promised a blend of relaxation, exhilaration, and self-reflection.

Riding the Waves: Surfing in Oahu

My first stop was the renowned North Shore. With its turquoise waters and world-famous waves, it was the perfect spot to kick off my solo adventure. As a newbie, I started with a few lessons. Balancing on the board was challenging but every fall was met with laughter and determination. By the end, not only did I manage to stand upright on my board, but I also experienced the sheer joy of riding a wave - a mix of adrenaline, accomplishment, and pure bliss.

Touching the Sky: The Thrill of Skydiving

If surfing was about embracing the ocean, skydiving was about conquering the skies. As the plane ascended, my heart raced. But as I took that leap, any remnants of fear were replaced by awe. Freefalling above Oahu provided a perspective I'd never imagined. The island, with its lush landscapes and pristine beaches, looked even more magnificent from above. The rush of the wind, the panoramic views, and the sensation of flying made it an experience etched into my soul forever.

Beneath the Waves: Scuba Diving Adventures

After the high of the sky, I decided to delve deep into the ocean. My scuba diving session took me to a world I had only seen in documentaries. Vivid corals, schools of colorful fish, and the serene vastness of the underwater world left me spellbound. Every breath felt precious, and the weightlessness made me feel as if I was in another realm altogether.

A New Dawn: Witnessing Sunrise in Oahu

On my last day, I chose a quiet spot on the eastern coast to witness an Oahu sunrise. As the first rays broke the horizon, the world around me was bathed in shades of gold and pink. It wasn’t just the beauty of the moment but the reflections it spurred. It marked the end of an unforgettable trip and the dawn of a new chapter post-graduation.

My graduation solo adventure in Oahu wasn’t just about the activities or the sights. It was a journey of self-discovery, of pushing boundaries, and cherishing the beauty of our world. To every graduate out there, consider giving yourself the gift of a solo trip. It's an experience that shapes, teaches, and remains with you, long after you've returned.

European Innovation Academy 2019: My Journey from Concept to VR Streaming Startup

Hong Kong, 2019: The skyline glistened under the summer sun as I stepped into the European Innovation Academy (EIA) premises. With a mix of excitement and anticipation, I embarked on what would become one of the most transformative experiences of my life.

Gathering the Dream Team

On the first day, attendees were buzzing with energy, each individual bringing unique ideas and experiences to the table. Amidst the sea of innovators, I connected with four incredibly talented individuals, and we quickly realized that our combined skills could lead to something special. And thus, our journey began as a team of five, eager to turn our vision into a reality.

The Birth of an Idea

As we brainstormed and debated, we identified a gap in the educational sector. In an era where technology was breaking barriers and bringing the world closer, traditional classroom learning remained relatively unchanged. Our idea? To revolutionize this space with a VR Streaming platform tailored for educational purposes.

Crafting Our VR Streaming Vision

The concept was simple but ambitious: A platform where educators could host virtual lessons, and students from anywhere in the world could "attend" in a fully immersive VR environment. This would not only make learning more interactive but also break geographical barriers, granting access to quality education for all.

Challenges and Triumphs

Of course, the journey wasn’t without its challenges. From understanding the technical intricacies of VR streaming to designing a user-friendly platform, we faced numerous hurdles. But with the invaluable mentorship provided by the EIA and our shared determination, every problem became an opportunity to learn and innovate.

We also held focus group sessions, getting insights from educators and students alike. This helped us refine our platform, ensuring it catered to the actual needs of the end-users.

Pitching Our Vision

The culmination of our hard work was the pitch day. Standing in front of investors, fellow participants, and industry experts, we presented our startup idea. The response was overwhelmingly positive, with many seeing the potential impact our platform could have on global education.

Looking Back

The European Innovation Academy was more than just an event; it was a melting pot of cultures, ideas, and ambitions. It taught me the value of collaboration, resilience, and always keeping the end-user in mind.

Today, as our VR Streaming company takes its first steps in the real world, I’m incredibly grateful for the EIA experience and the team that stood by me. The future of education is bright, and I’m thrilled to be a part of this revolution.

To those considering joining the European Innovation Academy or any similar program: Dive in. You'll not only come out with a potential startup idea but also memories and learnings that last a lifetime.

A Memorable Sojourn: Exploring Japan with My Mom

Traveling can be one of life's most enriching experiences, especially when shared with someone you love. Recently, I had the pleasure of exploring the Land of the Rising Sun, Japan, with none other than my dear mother. From the bustling streets of Tokyo to the serene temples of Kyoto, our journey was filled with unforgettable moments. Here’s a brief chronicle of our adventures:

1. Tokyo (东京)

The capital city, Tokyo, greeted us with its juxtaposition of the ultramodern and the traditional. We wandered through **Shinjuku** amidst the towering skyscrapers and neon lights. The sensory overload was real but in the best way possible. Our evenings were often spent at **Tsukiji Fish Market**, tasting the freshest sushi and marveling at the array of seafood.

A particular highlight was our visit to the **Meiji Shrine**. Nestled in the heart of the city, this Shinto shrine was an oasis of peace. We made wishes, sipped on traditional green tea, and simply took a moment to appreciate the serenity amidst the urban chaos.

2. Kyoto (京都)

From Tokyo, we boarded the Shinkansen (bullet train) to Kyoto. The ancient capital stole our hearts with its rich history and preserved traditions. A rickshaw ride through **Gion**, the geisha district, transported us back in time. The traditional wooden machiya houses, interspersed with teahouses and private clubs, spoke of an era gone by.

Our day at the **Kinkaku-ji**, or the Golden Pavilion, was equally mesmerizing. The Zen temple, blanketed in gold leaf, shimmered against the backdrop of a clear blue sky. We spent hours strolling the gardens, listening to the stories of its past.

3. Nara (奈良)

A short train ride from Kyoto, Nara was our final stop. Known for its friendly deer population, **Nara Park** was our first destination. It was heartwarming to see these creatures roam freely, interacting with tourists and locals alike.

The majestic Todai-ji Temple, home to the Great Buddha statue, was a sight to behold. We were awed by its grandeur and the intricate craftsmanship. As we lit incense and offered prayers, we felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude for the journey we had undertaken together.

Our trip to Japan was more than just a vacation. It was an exploration of culture, a dive into history, and most importantly, an opportunity to bond and create memories that will last a lifetime. As we boarded our flight home, I looked over at my mom, grateful for her company and the shared experiences. Japan, with its unique blend of the old and the new, had given us moments to cherish forever.