Celebrating Clara Finkelstein: A Journey of Confidence, Community, and Entrepreneurial Growth at TYE

“TYE didn’t just prepare me to apply to college; it helped me become the kind of person who’s ready to build something meaningful once I get there.”

The TiE Young Entrepreneurs (TYE) Program was a defining chapter in my journey as a young entrepreneur and played a major role in helping me reach Stanford University, where I plan to study Management Science and Engineering. TYE introduced me to the core concepts of entrepreneurship like ideation, business modeling, market research, and pitching. But more importantly, it gave me the confidence to see myself as a builder and problem-solver. Being surrounded by like-minded students and mentored by industry professionals helped me sharpen both my ideas and my leadership skills. I learned how to collaborate effectively on a startup team, think strategically under pressure, and adapt based on feedback – skills I know will be essential at Stanford and beyond.

Through TYE, I also gained a powerful support network that extended beyond the program. The encouragement from mentors and alumni reinforced my belief that I could make a real impact, even as a high school student. This mindset shaped the projects I pursued afterward, from launching initiatives in my community to refining my interests in tech-driven solutions to real-world problems. At Stanford, I’m excited to continue this entrepreneurial path, joining clubs like Stanford BASES and taking courses that combine innovation, technology, and impact. TYE didn’t just prepare me to apply to college; it helped me become the kind of person who’s ready to build something meaningful once I get there.