Katherine Gordon

As a Deaf student, she used assistive technology to support her learning in the course Introduction to Entrepreneurship, which required her to spend several additional hours reading through the transcripts each evening after class.

The Accessibility Office provided an assistive listening device and access to the AI transcription service, Otter.ai. The listening device connected to the classroom sound system and amplified speech directly to Gordon, which made following discussions easier. Additionally, Otter.ai transcribed the lectures in real time.

“If I needed clarification, I could ask my classmates or Professor Mike [Grandinetti], who were always willing to help,” says Gordon. “I truly appreciated their support and flexibility in ensuring I had equal access to the course content.”

Inspired by her Harvard Summer experience, Gordon launched her own company, SignSync, LLC. The company is devoted to bridging the communication divide between the hearing community and the Deaf community, bringing together those who are interested in learning and practicing American Sign Language (ASL).

Instructor Mike Grandinetti noted Katherine’s remarkable enthusiasm and determination throughout the course. 

“Katherine Gordon is one of the most extraordinary students that I have taught in over 20 years as a university educator,” he says. “She was always positive and was able to fully contribute to her team’s new startup venture class project. She overcame her own deep fear by standing in front of the class to help deliver the team’s final pitch — a moment I will never forget. Katherine has earned my eternal respect and admiration.”

Learn more about Katherine’s experience below. 

What course did you take and why did you choose it?

I took Introduction to Entrepreneurship taught by Professor Mike Grandinetti. After narrowing my options to organic chemistry and entrepreneurship, I asked teachers, peers, and family for their recommendations. 

They suggested I take this course because it aligned with my passions for STEM and business. The course’s emphasis on hands-on, interactive learning resonated with me, and I was eager to gain real-world skills.

What were you hoping to get out of the experience before you attended? What did you come away with?

Before attending, I hoped to deepen my understanding of entrepreneurship, explore Harvard’s academic environment, and choose a high school passion project. 

The program exceeded my expectations. Not only did I gain unparalleled insight into launching a venture, but I also immersed myself in Harvard’s student life and signed up for many activities, including visiting Rhode Island, Yale University, and Boston’s Back Bay. Along the way, I also formed connections with inspiring peers from all over the world.

How did you grow or change throughout the program? 

Enrolling in Professor Mike’s class was one of the best decisions I have made. The program strengthened my confidence and networking abilities, skills that have been instrumental in my journey. 

Inspired by the one-on-one guidance I received from my professor and knowledge gained from the course, I launched a company, SignSync, LLC. Learners on the platform can connect with one another, ask questions, exchange knowledge, and improve their signing skills in a supportive community. The platform fosters peer-to-peer interaction, making ASL learning more accessible and engaging for people at all levels.

Harvard’s Introduction to Entrepreneurship course played a pivotal role in transforming this concept into a viable venture. I applied the hypothesis-driven approach to identify core user needs, conducted market research, and validated potential solutions through conversations with potential users. Working with a startup as part of the course material taught me how to refine SignSync’s business strategy, value proposition, and target audience.

Professor Grandinetti’s emphasis on lean startup methodology and MVPs guided me in developing and testing prototypes while remaining adaptable to feedback. Through SignSync, I’m continuing to build on those lessons, developing technology that empowers users and promotes inclusivity.

What’s next for you? 

As a senior in the Class of 2025, I’m focused on continuing my accessibility initiative with SignSync and developing prototypes to benefit the Deaf community. I’m also excited to start my engineering degree, where I can further innovate and make a lasting impact.

What advice would you give to high school students thinking about applying to Harvard’s summer programs?

If you’re considering applying, do it! Harvard’s Secondary School Program is more than a summer class; it’s an opportunity to challenge yourself academically, explore your interests, and experience life at one of the world’s most prestigious universities. Study in Widener Library, dine in Annenberg Hall, explore Boston — immerse yourself in every aspect of the experience. 

If you take full advantage of what Harvard has to offer, it will be a transformative summer; one you’ll remember for a lifetime.