David Heyn is a senior at Michigan State University in the Eli Broad College of Business studying economics. David is the co-founder of SingleScoop, a smart vending machine for gyms that delivers perfectly mixed, single-serve pre-workout and protein powder from trusted brands, giving members convenience, variety, and confidence in what they consume.
Attending CES was the first convention I have ever been part of, and it was overwhelming in the best way possible. For three straight days, I was surrounded by people who think big — founders, innovators, investors, and builders — and that energy was contagious. Every conversation at our booth, whether it was someone offering advice, challenging our assumptions, or simply encouraging us to keep pushing, left me feeling motivated. There is something powerful about being in a space where ambition is the norm and growth feels tangible.
One of the most meaningful parts of the experience was the friendships that formed. The three student companies that traveled together — including KJA and Safety Straw — ended up spending nearly every day and night side by side. Before the trip, I knew a little about them. After CES, I consider them close friends. Entrepreneurship can feel isolating at times, so being surrounded by people who truly understand what you are building — and the pressure, uncertainty, and excitement that come with it — meant more than I expected. That shared experience created bonds that will last far beyond the convention.
CES also pushed me to raise my standards for Single Scoop. Being surrounded by massive global companies and hearing their stories made growth feel possible in a new way. I have always believed in Single Scoop and had a vision for where it could go, but CES challenged me to think bigger and bolder. It made me realize that scaling is not reserved for someone else — it is available to anyone willing to put in the work.
Spending hours at our booth answering questions was one of the most impactful parts of the entire experience. When you are building something every day, it is easy to become laser focused and see it only from your own perspective. At CES, complete strangers challenged our idea, asked tough questions, and offered thoughtful suggestions. That outside perspective forced us to refine our message and think more strategically. In just three days, we grew in ways I did not anticipate.
Michigan State has been an incredible place to build a company. The Burgess Institute community — students and staff alike — genuinely wants to see you succeed. People go out of their way to connect you to resources, offer guidance, and talk through ideas. That level of support is rare. Being part of the Launch Program has been one of the most meaningful experiences of my college career. It did not just help our business grow — it helped me realize what I want to pursue after graduation. CES reinforced everything I have learned here and reminded me that what we are building at Michigan State can compete on a global stage.
Traveling across the country with our company to one of the largest conventions in the world was intimidating, but that is exactly why it mattered. CES pushed me outside of my comfort zone, showed me how much opportunity exists, and reminded me how hard you have to work to reach that level. The connections alone — with manufacturers, investors, and fellow Michigan State students building incredible ventures — will directly impact our growth. More than anything, CES was a reality check and a motivator. It reminded me that thinking bigger is not optional if you want to build something that lasts.
More information about Give Green Day and to support the Burgess Institute's Experiential Learning Fund for Spartan Entrepreneurs, visit: https://givingday.msu.edu/projects/entrepreneurship.