Steven W. (IN A NUTSHELL)

I’m excited to begin my PhD journey at Peking University this September, building on my experiences at the University of Pennsylvania and Tabor Academy. My academic background spans everything from mathematics and engineering to business and entrepreneurship, and I’ve always been drawn to interdisciplinary pursuits. As a serial entrepreneur, I’ve co-founded ventures focused on cutting-edge technology—from AI-driven healthcare tools to innovative consumer products—while also learning firsthand the importance of teamwork, resilience, and creative problem-solving.

One of my greatest passions is mentoring and guiding students on their unique educational paths. During my time at the Wharton Business School, I served as a teaching assistant in entrepreneurship-focused courses and worked with high school students at leadership camps, helping them transform their passion project ideas into market-ready ventures. I’ve helped develop pitch decks, refine product concepts, and shape growth strategies, ultimately seeing my mentees gain acceptance to top-tier universities such as Stanford, the University of Chicago, Wharton, and Yale. Whether it’s coaching math fundamentals, diving into coding projects, or honing a college essay, I thrive on watching young minds discover their potential and push beyond perceived limits.

Beyond academics, I love exploring the intersection of leadership, innovation, and real-world problem-solving. My work in machine learning and AI has reinforced my belief that the most impactful breakthroughs happen when diverse perspectives come together—be it in a startup setting or a research lab. In my spare time, I enjoy street photography, immersing myself in different cultures, and looking for new ways to connect STEM with broader societal needs. As a mentor, my goal is not only to share knowledge, but also to help students spark their own curiosity and drive. I believe that, with the right guidance and a supportive environment, anyone can turn a spark of interest into something extraordinary.