What I Wish I Knew Before I Started

Starting something new is exciting — and overwhelming. But what if you didn’t have to figure it all out the hard way?

What I Wish I Knew Before I Started is a candid conversation featuring students and recent alumni who’ve launched ventures, built projects, or led bold initiatives at Berkeley. They’ll share the highs, the lows, the pivots — and the things they really wish someone had told them earlier. Then we’ll eat yummy dinner and connect.

You’ll hear real stories about:

• How to test an idea without burning out
• Mistakes that turned into momentum
• What mattered more than they expected
• How they found support when things got hard

You’ll also have a chance to ask your own questions, connect with other curious builders, and reflect on what you want to carry forward as you start something of your own.

Who should come?

• Students considering launching something — or already in the messy middle
• Participants in Start Something F2025 considering SEARCH, TEST, or BUILD
• Anyone who wants insight, encouragement, or a dose of real talk