11 Questions with MS in Entrepreneurship Student Talia Zimmermann

We asked current Foster students to tell us why they chose Foster, what they like to do for fun, and to share advice with potential applicants. Meet Master of Science in Entrepreneurship student Talia.

1) Where are you from?

I was born and raised in Lima, Peru.

2) What did you do before entering this program?

I have a bachelor and professional degree in Business Administration from the University of Lima. I have 10 years of experience in product management, product development, marketing, and retail. Before I started the program, I worked at the leading supermarket in Peru as the divisional manager for the electronics business.

3) Did you have any entrepreneurship experience before entering this program?

When I was 20, I loved designing my own clothes. Soon that hobby became a business when I decided to offer showroom events at my house so my friends could buy my designs. I decided to resign from the company I was working at and dedicate 100% of my time to my project, I created my own brand, and I opened my own store. I had my own company for 5 years, a fashion woman’s clothing brand named Guilty.

4) Tell us why you are excited to be a part of the fifth cohort for the MS ENTRE program?

After 10 years in corporate roles, from the manufacturer learning about the product development to the retailer learning about vendor management and leading my own team, my priorities have changed and I want to resume my personal venture. I want to follow my passion and use my creativity. I am excited about the MS Entre program because it will give me the tools and knowledge to become a better leader and manager, refresh best practices in entrepreneurship, meet amazing and passionate persons that can inspire me and guide me through this path, and develop a strong network of mentors and investors to start again my own business.

5) What advantages do you see to opening a business now?

Any time is a good time for opening a business, pivot an ongoing one or change path. However, right now we are facing a reality nobody has seen before and every person and company will have to adapt to the post-pandemic, more remote environment, in which consumers are becoming more self-aware. That said, now is probably a good time to channel all that awareness and inspiration last year has left us after spending more time at home.

6) What connections are you hoping to make while in the program?

First, with my cohort. My classmates will push me to challenge myself, give me different perspectives feedback and inspire me to be the better version of myself as an entrepreneur. Then my teachers and mentors, who will guide me and enlighten me with their experience and feedback. And last, potential investors or partners who could become interested in my business idea.

7) Where do you see yourself in the next 5 years?

I see myself working at my own company, and being able to have quality time with my family and do what I love at the same time.

8) What skills and/or knowledge are you looking to develop?

Pitching, networking, how to talk to investors and convince them my idea is worth it.

9) What do you like to do for fun?

My top #1 has to be: Travel!!

10) What’s been your favorite part of the program so far?

Our in-campus classes. I love the UW campus!

11) What advice would you give to someone who’s thinking about applying to the MS ENTRE degree program?

If you have a business idea or you are looking to expand your knowledge in entrepreneurship, this is the right program for you. Not only you will learn in classes, but also take advantage of the diverse cohort Foster MSE has every year.

Learn more about the Master of Science in Entrepreneurship program

This post is part of a series where we ask current students to answer 11 questions about their experience at Foster. Explore the 11 questions tag for more interviews.

11 questions, Master of Science in Entrepreneurship, Master of Science in Entrepreneurship student experience, Student Experience