Global Talent as Newcomers
by Chornnaton Hort
October 8, 2024
One of the most exciting things that I have accomplished since I have been in the United State, is the consulting case for my international business class. Through this consulting case, I was able to work for Drexel Hamilton, a veteran-owned investment bank. This group project is a big stepping stone for me as a newcomer in the market, it helps drive me to do more research about the current market as well as the market in other countries, to maximize the work in the group project as well as to achieve many more aspects.
From the consulting case, I was able to use it as a learning opportunity. Working on a consulting case has given me the chance to learn more about the investment banking industry, which can be valuable knowledge to have as you start your career in a new country. It is also a great demonstration of my skills and expertise. A successful consulting case can be a great way to showcase my skills and expertise to potential employers or clients, which can help me stand out in a competitive job market. Moreover, from having to work on different presentations, I was also able to build my confidence. Working on a consulting case helped me build my confidence and demonstrate to myself that I have the skills and knowledge to succeed in the new country.
For me, I am more than just a foreigner. I have been living independently and in various places, where I first moved out when I was 11, to another city for education, then left Cambodia for Australia, also for education abroad, and fast forward to today, I am now studying in the United States. Moreover, I have also traveled to 18 different countries, hence when having the experiences of being in many different places, I am also more aware of how to adjust to different cultures as well as understand different cultures in different countries, anywhere from my country, which is a developing country, to a fast developed country, such the United States. As a foreigner, such as myself with a unique experience, I believe that I can bring a unique perspective and set of experiences to the new country. For example, I might have language skills, cultural knowledge, or global connections that can be valuable in my job search or career advancement. Hence, these can be leveraged as competitive advantages in my personal, social, and professional life.
To invest in my personal capital as a newcomer, I might consider learning about the local culture, customs, and norms, as well as building my personal network through social and professional associations, such as with the University as well as building a positive relationship with friends from different professional settings. This can help me better understand and navigate my new environment and increase my visibility and reputation, as a newcomer in the country, who is striving for maximal opportunities. As a business student, I believe that networking is very critical and as the United States is the land of opportunities, with many successful entrepreneurs, it is also a great environment to learn new experiences that will help to further my future.
For market entry strategy as an educated foreigner, I must consider researching the local job market as well as the surrounding markets. This would be one of the first important things as a stepping stone for me to be familiar with the new market and industry trends to identify potential opportunities and challenges that I may need to overcome. In addition, in furthering my understanding of this new market, networking with locals and other foreigners in my field to learn about job openings and get advice on how to succeed in the local market would also be a great start. Furthermore, as a proud student at Northeastern, I can say that I have learned many valuable skills so far, after only being here for one semester, hence I can also leverage my education as well as the international experience to highlight my unique skills and value proposition to potential employers. Moreover, obtaining relevant certifications or qualifications that are recognized widely, especially in the new country is very critical, as it can be something that can demonstrate dedication and achievements.
In terms of what I wish I had more in my educational journey as an investment in my employability, is to maximize my skills for having the experience of living in different places. One thing is that I wish I had more practical experience or internships to gain hands-on skills and build my professional network. From this, it can help me to further my understanding of how each market differs from other markets. Additionally, I wish I had more opportunities to learn about different cultures and global business practices, which can be valuable in a diverse and interconnected job market. This is also significant, as it can help show the ability to cope with different markets and under the markets quickly, which is a great knowledge and skill to have. Finally, I also wish I had less focus on theoretical knowledge and more on developing transferable skills such as communication, problem-solving, and teamwork, which now I can say that I have achieved from being part of the international business consulting project.
Overall, it’s important to stay proactive and take advantage of opportunities that come my way as I start my career in the United States, a new country. With hard work, determination, and a positive attitude, I can build a successful career and make a positive impact in my new home.
Chornnaton Hort
Business and Economic major
Northeastern University, Class of 2025
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