Entrepreneurship and Finance

Hello, all you enthusiastic fellows of economic impact! My name is Ousmane Barry, and I am a senior majoring in Economics, with a minor in Computer Science from Guinea. I am thrilled to share my internship experience with Tucannon Partners, where I have been gaining invaluable hands-on experience in entrepreneurship, finance, and business.

Tucannon Partners’ mission is to find and manage a business to invest in. With the backing of mentors and former entrepreneurs, Luke Hedlund ’15 will join the business full-time post-acquisition to help grow it into its next chapter. As an intern, I have had the opportunity to work directly alongside Luke, diving into industry research and scouting potential acquisitions.

Since my first day at Tucannon Partners, I have been engaged in various tasks that are both challenging and rewarding. My responsibilities include researching industry trends to understand the dynamics of the industries we are focused on, preparing reports and presentations to share my findings, sourcing potential acquisition targets through online research, and evaluating companies to see if they fit our criteria. Currently, our focus is on the veterinary clinic services industry.

A typical day at Tucannon Partners starts early with reviewing emails and meeting with my supervisor to stay aligned with our objectives and vision. I then engage in research on potential acquisition targets, eagerly seeking to identify promising opportunities. My work involves using online databases, calling business owners, and visiting businesses in person. Throughout the day, I also focus on networking and forging connections with industry professionals for possible economic impact and as well for personal to reach in the future when I need information.

This internship has been a meaningful part of my journey as an Economics major at Whitman College. Applying the theoretical knowledge I have gained from my coursework in a real-world setting has allowed me to go beyond the practical aspect of my education. This experience has nurtured my growth, fostering complementary skills that align with my academic foundation. It has equipped me with sought-after skills in financial analysis, industry research, and strategic decision-making, rendering me a valuable asset in the economic sector.

For me, this internship has opened doors to potential career opportunities that align with my passion for positive economic changes. It serves as a compass guiding me toward a future dedicated to economic growth, policy-making, and community empowerment. I am grateful for this opportunity that has ignited my journey and entitled me to economic transformation. This experience will forever remain an admirable part of my life, career, and personal and professional growth.

As I step into the future, I feel like I am armed with newfound skills and passion, excited to embrace the world's economic impact, driven by a desire to make a lasting difference in the lives of individuals and communities. This internship has not only shaped my professional aspirations but, also it has enriched my understanding of the entrepreneurial landscape.

Thank you for taking the time to read about my journey. I look forward to continuing my work at Tucannon Partners and beyond, as I strive to make meaningful contributions to the field of economics and beyond.