I had the opportunity to work and interact with several crucial pieces that helped me solidify my understanding of how a startup works and learn immensely about the edtech (learning games) space. I was able to participate in several virtual edtech conferences, partnership strategy development, content partner study, thought leadership research, writing, and helping with pitch deck content development. All these tasks were aimed at furthering the organization's mission of content development and outreach for kids in pre-K-12, with a particular focus on underserved-kids and kids with special needs. Through partnership development, Games and Learning will be able to ensure content is available to all communities and most definitely to kids in need. Through research, we were able to hone in on their pitch for fundraising which, if and when it comes through, will help them scale the product and ensure more people can avail their offerings with the option of using coupons for those in economic need.

In executing my responsibilities and trying to ensure I help them actualize their mission, I was able to use my skills and training in data research, policy writing and analysis, and management to further their work around analyzing the remote learning environment during the pandemic. I was also able to help use my training in leadership, management, and strategy to further help with different state-wide comparisons of policies around remote learning. I came up with a benchmarking analysis that could further refine their pitch and how they positioned themselves in the environment to deliver.

Given the remote environment, it did become challenging to keep sight of the goal and impact I was creating. Sometimes, with limited tech in the form of just my laptop, I struggled to look at large data sets, wherein some big screens would have come handy. However, my manager was very supportive, understanding, and helpful. I was able to divide the task, get timely guidance, and have the peer reviewer made available so any mishaps could be avoided during final publications. Other than that, looking at lagging remote learning COVID-19 indicators was a massive challenge as we looked through the 50 states and their response to schools closing down. However, in the process, I exposed myself to multiple varieties of datasets, which I would have otherwise not known, or better yet, not known how to best make sense of them.

My goal at the start of this experience was to learn how the edtech space in North America works and learn about games for teaching and learning - an area I wasn't initially very well-versed in. Additionally, I was looking to learn how I could use my skillsets in policy research, management, strategy, and leadership to contribute to an early-stage venture looking to make an impact. I was able to actualize all these goals, and my manager went above and beyond such that I authored a blog piece (due to publish) that I could carry with me as an external output. I also got to be a part of several strategy meetings. More than that, I was able to organize lunch and learns that provided me invaluable insights into the founders' career trajectory, and getting to know their "whys" was immensely valuable. The skillsets they spoke about and the mentorship they provided are things that I did not expect. I learned relevant soft skills of people and time management, as well as creating my brand. More than that, I think I developed a strong understanding of the learning games, an area (I hate to admit) I did not know existed.