Get to Know MS in Entrepreneurship Student: Songapsorn (La Jolla) Jantaraamornkul

The MS in Entrepreneurship program is made up of a diverse group of students who come from various backgrounds and experiences. We love to highlight students from the current cohort, so read on to hear more about La Jolla’s journey to the program.

Please tell us your name.

Songapsorn (La Jolla) Jantaraamornkul.

Where are you from?

I was born in Bangkok and raised in Chiangrai, Thailand.

What did you do before entering this program?

Before joining the M.S. in Entrepreneurship program, I pursued my undergraduate studies in cosmetic science while helping my parents in their endocrine clinic. This unique blend of academic knowledge and hands-on experience in the healthcare industry has been instrumental in shaping my entrepreneurial mindset and passion for innovation in the health sector.

When did you know you wanted to be an entrepreneur? Did you have any entrepreneurship experience before entering this program?

Growing up, I watched my physician parents pour their hearts into their clinic, tirelessly addressing the needs of their patients. Working alongside them, I witnessed firsthand the gaps and challenges in healthcare, igniting a spark within me to make a difference. Inspired by their dedication and expertise, I began to view healthcare through an entrepreneurial lens, identifying areas where innovative solutions could bridge gaps and improve patient outcomes. The challenges I witnessed became the fuel that propelled me forward on my own entrepreneurial journey, carrying with me the invaluable lessons of empathy, creativity, and perseverance.

Tell us why you are excited to be a part of the current cohort for the MS ENTRE degree program?

Being part of the current MS ENTRE cohort is an incredible opportunity that I’m deeply excited about. One of my favorite aspects of the program so far has been the engaging case studies and collaborative projects. For instance, in our persuasion class, we worked in teams to develop and pitch a startup idea. This experience not only helped me apply the business concepts we learned but also gave me a taste of the entrepreneurial process, from ideation to presentation. The energy and creativity that emerged from working alongside my talented classmates was truly inspiring. I’m also looking forward to the upcoming Dempsey startup competition, where I’ll have the chance to connect with entrepreneurs, investors, and innovators from across the city’s vibrant tech and startup scene. Building these relationships and learning from diverse perspectives is one of the key things I hoped to gain from the program.

What advantages do you see to opening a business now?

I believe now is an incredibly opportune time to start a business due to the low barriers to entry. The rapid advancements in technology and the rise of the digital economy have made launching and scaling a startup easier and more affordable than ever before. One key advantage is the availability of cloud computing services. These services allow entrepreneurs to build and deploy applications without the need for expensive hardware or IT infrastructure, significantly reducing upfront costs. This, in turn, provides a great opportunity to test and validate ideas quickly and efficiently.

Where do you see yourself in the next 5 years?

In the next five years, I see myself as an active member of the startup community here in the U.S., drawing from my firsthand experiences to make a meaningful impact. I aspire to be both a founder and an investor, helping other founders grow their ventures. By giving back to the entrepreneurial ecosystem, I hope to foster innovation and support the next generation of entrepreneurs.

What do you like to do for fun?

When I’m not working on my venture, I love exploring Seattle’s vibrant café scene, searching for the perfect cup of coffee. Also, I love meeting new people, so I actively engage with Seattle’s startup community by attending events and panels. These gatherings allow me to connect with fellow entrepreneurs, gain valuable insights, and find inspiration for my own ventures, keeping me motivated on my entrepreneurial journey.

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

For those considering applying to the MS ENTRE program, my advice is simple–embrace your unique experiences and perspectives. Your background, whether it’s rooted in healthcare like mine or in an entirely different field, is what sets you apart and gives you a distinct lens through which to approach entrepreneurship. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and tackle challenges head-on. The entrepreneurial journey is not always easy, but it is incredibly rewarding. Surround yourself with a supportive network of mentors, peers, and industry experts who can provide guidance and inspiration along the way. Most importantly, believe in yourself and your ability to make a difference. The MS ENTRE program is an incredible platform to transform your ideas into reality, but it’s your passion, perseverance, and unique perspective that will truly shape your entrepreneurial journey.

Learn About MS in Entrepreneurship

• Sign up for the MS in Entrepreneurship email list
• Watch the MS in Entrepreneurship On Demand Info Session
• Visit the MS in Entrepreneurship website

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