Frequently Asked Questions
What is Start Me Up?
We’re a travel education company that focuses on programs that combine in-demand skills learning with adventurous travel.
By running structured programs, we provide participants with an engaging, eyeopening, safe and supportive educational experience.
What is the aim of the program?
We offer career accelerating skills and experience in an amazing location.
Working in conjunction with leading entrepreneurs, we have run programs across three continents for students and graduates from Ivy League and Russell Group Universities including Cornell, Princeton, Oxford, Cambridge and UCL.
What happens at weekends?
At weekends we run excursions. These could include visiting little-known beaches or taking part in a surf camp.
Who is behind Start Me Up?
Start Me Up was founded and is run by Clare Harrison, a future of work enthusiast and former business editor with a degree in Politics, Philosophy and Economics from Oxford University. The program has been developed in conjunction with an experienced educational board comprising PhD students and experts from industry from over five countries.
Do I need a laptop?
You need to bring a laptop. We can’t provide a laptop but we can provide somewhere to securely store it at night.
What happens if I want to cancel my placement?
All deposits are non-refundable, but if you need to cancel and you give us sufficient notice we can look at moving you to a different placement in the future as long as it’s within the same year.
What kind of training will I get on my placement?
The type of training depends on which of our programs you take part in.
We run orientation and on-boarding before you begin your program. We also run workshops on everything from startup ideation and design thinking to artificial intelligence.
Can I connect with others before the placement starts?
Yes we will make a cohort Whatsapp group so you can talk to others who will be arriving at the same time as you.
How long are the programs?
Our programs range from 16 days to 2 months in length. The Coding Bootcamp, Startup Bootcamp and Gap Year Program are all 16 days in length.
Where do the workshops happen?
We run our workshops at top-rated co-working spaces. These are shared workspaces used by entrepreneurs and freelancers.
What happens when I arrive at the airport?
You’ll be met by a driver and/or a representative from Start Me Up who will be clutching a sign with your name on it (and our logo).
Where will I stay during the program?
We provide you with accommodation that is conveniently located close to workshops. We work with a range of hotels, villas and guesthouses in Bali. You’ll be staying with other participants on the program.
When do I have to pay for my placement?
You need to pay a deposit to secure your place. Places are competitive, so you’ll need to make sure you’re prepared before you apply. The remainder of the balance is due eight weeks before you start the program.
What is the weather like?
Bali, our main destination is warm throughout the year. The rainy season runs from November to around March. From May to October, the weather is dry and the temperatures hover around the 30-degree mark.