The Michigan Venture Capital Association is proud to offer the Venture Fellows Program to Michigan’s venture capital community. The program, launched in 2023, is designed to increase the number of venture professionals in Michigan in order to accelerate the fundraising and deployment of capital into early-stage companies.
Reflections from the Final Stretch: My Fellowship at Augment Ventures
As I near the end of my fellowship with Augment Ventures, I’ve been reflecting on what I’ve learned, the incredible people I’ve met, and the ways this experience has shaped my understanding of venture capital. It’s hard to believe how quickly the time has flown, but I’m grateful for every moment. Here’s a look back at the journey so far:
Standout Achievements & Contributions
One of the highlights of my fellowship has been supporting Augment Venture’s Fundraising, Community and Investor Outreach, and Investor Relations efforts for Fund III and Fund IV which the firm successfully closed late last year. It was exciting to see how the team adapted to the headwinds of the soft fundraising environment while continuing to support portfolio company growth.
In addition to supporting Fundraising, Community and Investor Outreach, and Investor Relations, I also have learned to leverage fund management technology to free up our Team’s time for more value-added work. This involved taking a leap to rely on our fund management technology for investor closings and capital calls, turning a once labor- intensive activity to an automated one. The effort that was initially rolled out to support one of our SPVs and has since been incorporated into our capital calls and closings, which has been a proud moment for me.
Challenges & How I Overcame Them
Venture capital spans so many industries, technologies, and business models—it can be overwhelming. I learned to lean into curiosity instead of pressure. By asking good questions, doing research, and being open about what I didn’t know, I turned uncertainty into a learning engine. I also benefited from the mentorship of the Sonali and the rest of the Augment team, who reminded me that insight often starts with simply being thoughtful and inquisitive.
What I’ve learned About Myself & VC
One of the most surprising realizations during this experience was how much I enjoy sitting at the intersection of technology and storytelling. Venture capital isn’t just about numbers—it’s about people, vision, and timing. I found myself especially drawn to founders and investors where I could hear the “why” behind the company and their desire to invest in venture, respectively. It turns out that my background in both analysis and communication is a real asset in VC, and I’ve grown more confident in blending both skill sets.
Post Fellowship Plans
After the fellowship wraps up, I’m excited to continue working with founders as well as family-led businesses. This fellowship confirmed that I want to stay in the finance world and be part of building the future through bold, thoughtful investments and continue to invest in the alternative investment space.
What I’ve Enjoyed Most About MVCA
Being affiliated with MVCA, and their generous support, has been a valuable part of this experience. The community is incredibly generous and collaborative. My favorite MVCA event is the Annual Awards Celebration. It is an event that gets better every year—it is energizing to be in a room full of people who genuinely care about Michigan’s innovation ecosystem.
The Outdoors & Venture Capital: A Surprising Parallel
In my last blog, I shared my love for getting outside and enjoying new seasonal activities—whether it’s kayaking in the fall, hiking in winter, or discovering a new trail in the spring. What I didn’t realize then is how much this mirrors the rhythm of venture capital. Each deal and fund like each season, brings its own pace, challenges, and beauty. You can’t rush it. You learn to observe, adapt, and enjoy the process, even when conditions are unpredictable. VC, like the outdoors, rewards patience, perspective, and curiosity.
As I prepare to transition into the next chapter, I’m filled with gratitude—for Augment Ventures, for MVCA, and for everyone who’s been part of this experience. Thanks for following along on the journey.