Beyond the Classroom: Adapting and Transitioning With a Twin Cities Startup
Long’s MacNest experience was more than a summer internship, it was an opportunity for experiential learning to gain valuable skills such as innovative thinking and leadership qualities that will serve him well as he graduates from Macalester, to feel empowered to shape his future.
For Long Truong ’25, a summer internship wasn’t just about gaining experience, it was the launch to continuing a role in a dynamic startup. The MacNest program supports the next generation of innovators, and Long’s experience with Tradeout (now Revestify) is a perfect example. Here is how this computer science and mathematics & statistics student made a real impact. Long says, “I am passionate about using my technical and analytical skills to make a meaningful impact in the tech industry. And to begin my journey, I plan to start as a software engineer to gain valuable experience and build a strong foundation.”
The MacNest program connects early-stage Twin Cities startups with students for a 10-week summer internship. Long found a match with Tradeout, an online platform aimed at reducing the risk of fraud or scams for online marketplace purchases. Gafar Amuda, Long’s supervisor noted, “Long was self-sufficient from the start and quickly communicated software issues and adapted to fixing bugs.”
The value Long brought to the startup was evident. Following his MacNest internship and continuing into his senior year, he stayed in a software developer role as Tradeout evolved into Revestify. Revestify is an online platform designed to manage donations and make giving easier, more engaging, and more meaningful. Gafar says, “Long’s honest approach and willingness to tackle difficult problems, even when the solution isn’t immediately clear, sets him apart.”
Long also developed adaptability and willingness to take initiative, “I am open to taking on tasks outside my primary focus if they contribute to the organization’s success,” he explains. “I consider myself a genuine and open person, always eager to learn and share ideas, particularly within the dynamic environment of a startup.”
Long’s MacNest experience was more than a summer internship, it was an opportunity for experiential learning to gain valuable skills such as innovative thinking and leadership qualities that will serve him well as he graduates from Macalester, to feel empowered to shape his future.
Are you an early-stage Twin Cities startup looking to work with an amazing Macalester student for the 10-week summer MacNest program? Reach out to Linda at [email protected] to learn more.