This chaotic, creative decade has so far seen some immense changes in the entrepreneurial landscape. We’re here today to talk about it. As freelancing becomes increasingly popular, the future of work looks at more flexible positions, with most people only working at one company for two to three years, and then moving on to the next. Why? The new generation is eager for professional exposure, taking full advantage of the world of opportunities it is offered through a multi-faceted, fast-moving society. Today, skills are more transferable, and the unconventional path has become the conventional one.

That’s why Gideon, one of Minite’s High-Flyers, went from studying theoretical mathematics to completing his Masters in Strategic Entrepreneurship. Because Minite caters to both start-ups and students, we’re looking towards this future: students like Gideon don’t want to wait, and are curious to learn on the go. It’s time for greater exposure and excellence in growth.

We stepped into the happy world of The Student Hotel to meet Gideon, a creative contributor to the student community here, adding color to the halls with his tunes and talents. Much like Gideon, The Student Hotel reflects a creativity seen in this young generation that boosts self-expression, community collaboration, and builds a starting ground for those ready to bring ideas to life: amongst them, surely some entrepreneurs will blossom. Let’s learn more about that from the man of the hour!

So Gideon, why did you sign up to Minite?

I listened to a few of Micky’s (our CEO😃) guest lectures while I was pursuing my Masters here at the Rotterdam School of Management, and that got me interested. I was curious about working for and getting in contact with smaller companies. Minite gave me just that, in addition to a chance to try new things that I otherwise wouldn’t have. Minite is a young, dynamic company working on the realization of innovation, and I really like their initiative.

"Minite offers an interesting opportunity for all, especially in being able to see both sides of working in a company: exploring the intimate, smaller environment vs. the larger corporate ones"

What has your Minite experience been like, from the beginning to now?

The Minite platform is straightforward and easy. It was an extremely easy process to sign up. I found a research assistant task that had been posted, applied, and started working. My task pleasantly surprised me-- it took me into technical feasibility studies. It was great to see the practical side of starting a business, and I’ll definitely be taking that experience with me into my future.

You’re on your way to becoming an entrepreneur… Why is gaining experience in startups so valuable?

Before I decided to study strategic entrepreneurship, I was actually doing media and entertainment studies. I have a hobby-- fingerpicking (a style of playing the classical guitar in which the player uses their fingers instead of a pick). Because I was working with a local radio station at the time, I was able to use that platform to perform some concerts and develop a network of kindred spirits in fingerpicking. Working in this small environment essentially allowed me to organize an entire community of fingerpickers around me. Through this experience, I realized that I like creating and working in environments that are autonomy-driven, where impact is direct… Start-ups are like this, and we can learn so much in that kind of world.”

What advice would you give to your fellow high-flyers?

Embrace it! This idea of working together with startups is extremely valuable. Minite offers an interesting opportunity for all, especially in being able to see both sides of working in a company: exploring the intimate, smaller environment vs. the larger corporate ones. I think our educational system still lacks practical application of what we’re learning… Minite offers a solution: in being a High-Flyer, you have the freedom to try and find things you enjoy doing along the way, while meeting potential future employers. Experience the whole process and try out as much as you want. Connect with young companies, see what you like. Don’t be shy, sign up!

"It was great to see the practical side of starting a business, and I’ll definitely be taking that experience with me into my future."

A pillow in the pandemic: How did your stay at The Student Hotel improve your student experience during COVID?

Being a resident at The Student Hotel gave me a chance at social life during a time when it was difficult to get out and meet new people-- it offered me a vibrant community in which I was able to connect with many inspiring and amazing people that I can now call friends.

When we met Gideon, he pranced into the TSH lounge with pride, completely in his element, holding copies of his first album which he kindly shared with us here at Minite. It seems the TSH served the artist-side of Gideon as an excellent creative backdrop.

If you want to check out some of Gideon’s music, follow him on instagram @gideonpasch

And if you’re looking for start-up experience during your studies, what are you waiting for? Sign up to become a High-flyer today and start browsing tasks on minite.works

"I like creating and working in environments that are autonomy-driven, where impact is direct. Start-ups are like this, and we can learn so much in that kind of world."