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My Summer Job at ColdVest

Written by
Bisi Owens
Published on
July 8 2024

Intro

Hello, my name is Bisi Owens. I am a rising junior at the University of Pennsylvania studying finance and playing Division 1 football. As an athlete, the expectation of us is to train and compete as hard as possible no matter the conditions. I can assure you, that’s much easier said than done. Contrasting what many think, heat is the worst of these conditions. Athletes are increasingly suffering from heat stroke as temperatures continue to rise. This is why I was particularly interested in working at ColdVest, a company dedicated to saving lives through their emergency cooling vests.

The Increasing Heat and Its Consequences

Every year, global temperatures reach new highs, and with this increase comes a heightened risk of heat-related illnesses. For athletes, who often train and compete in extreme conditions, this risk is even more pronounced. I continue to see headlines in the news about athletes of all ages collapsing from heat exhaustion, sometimes with fatal outcomes. These stories are not just statistics; they are reminders of the urgent need for effective solutions to this growing problem.

A Personal Encounter with Heat Stroke

This issue is particularly personal to me because I witnessed someone collapse from heat stroke on the football field when I was in grade school. It was a terrifying experience that has stayed with me ever since. Seeing a fellow athlete fall victim to something so preventable was a wake-up call. I realized that despite the advances in sports medicine and technology, heat stroke remains a significant threat. This personal encounter fueled my determination to contribute to preventing such incidents in the future.

The Role of ColdVest

ColdVest’s mission to develop emergency cooling vests resonates with me on a profound level. Their innovative approach to addressing heat stroke is a game-changer for not only athletes, but also for anyone consistently outdoors. The idea of being part of a team that is both at the forefront of technological innovation and also saving lives is incredibly motivating. I believe that my background as an athlete gives me a unique perspective on the practical applications and benefits of ColdVest’s products.

Learning and Growing 

As a finance major in school, I am eager to learn more about sales. I recognize that a strong sales strategy is crucial for any startup's success, especially one that aims to make a significant impact on public health. Working at ColdVest would provide me with invaluable experience in this area, allowing me to develop and expand my own professional skill set.

Making a Difference

Ultimately, my interest in working at ColdVest stems from a desire to make a difference. My personal experience witnessing heat stroke has deeply impacted me and drives my interest in working at ColdVest. By joining this team, I can combine my passion for sports, my commitment to safety, and my interest in finance to help prevent unnecessary deaths and ensure that everyone can perform at their best without fear of heat stroke.