I spent 4 years in tech before I started seriously studying venture capital. Here's what would have saved me a lot of time:

1. Nobody cares about your MBA (as much as you think)

The best VCs I've met came from operating roles — engineering, product, growth. Funds want people who can evaluate technology and founders, not people who can build financial models. If you're in tech already, you're closer than you think.

2. Deal flow is a skill, not a network

Everyone says "it's all about deal flow." True. But deal flow isn't magic — it's pattern recognition + consistent sourcing habits. You can start building this today by tracking 10-15 startups in a sector you care about.

3. The best entry point is angel investing, not applying to funds

Most VC associates got noticed because they were already making small bets and writing about them publicly. Start writing investment memos on companies you find interesting — even if you're not investing real money yet.

4. Understanding GP/LP dynamics changes everything

VCs aren't just picking startups. They're managing a fund with LPs who have return expectations, timelines, and risk tolerances. Once you understand this layer, you'll read every funding announcement differently.

5. The information gap is closing fast

Ten years ago, VC was a black box. Now, between SEC filings, AngelList data, and newsletters like this one, you can develop real conviction on deals from your laptop.

I started VC Insider to close that gap even further — weekly deep dives on deals, trends, and the real mechanics of how venture capital works.

It's free. Come learn with us.