Meet the 2008/2009 participants

The PhD students participating 2008/2009 have already devoted time and energy to an intensive and challenging course. From 36 applicants 20 were selected by a selection committé. Meet some of the 2008/2009 participants below:

Name: Muslim Elkotob

Background: I was born in St. Petersburg, Russian Federation, but studied and worked in Germany before moving to Sweden. My background is in computer engineering with focus on networking and telecommunications. I focus on using cutting edge network technology to develop new protocols and services. My current research is on telecommunication service re-configurability in autonomic networks. My product idea is a social portal supported by an ambient assisted living prototype for the ageing population.

Why did you apply for this course?
I applied for FR2B because it is an opportunity to get and share expertise with the whole eco-system of business and entrepreneurship. This includes outstanding professors, lecturers, mentors, trainers, venture capitalists, entrepreneurs and funding body representatives.

What have you learned so far that surprised you?
I have learned from FR2B several professional insights and ways of thinking and working as an entrepreneur. What surprised me most includes: the high quality of the course, the down to Earth virtue of successful entrepreneurs, and the unique opportunity of having an insider view the course provided.

How do you think this course will help you develop your idea?
FR2B will help me develop my idea of building a successful startup around my ambient assisted living and social inclusion portal by linking me with key people and teaching me key skills necessary to produce and polish a solid business plan for the venture.

Would you recommend other to take this course, in that case why?
I would definitely recommend the course to others. The quality and applicability of the course is very high. The contacts and experiences provide a unique opportunity, so any competitive and qualified to-be-entrepreneur should IMHO take this course.