Q:How did the Graduate Certificate in Business Administration for international students open doors to your future?
ONE:This program helped me a lot. First of all, it was an important experience for me before entering the graduate program or working in the U.S. Through this program, you can really learn what university life is like in the U.S. and what you really want to study and where you want to work after completion of the program. Because the students are from all over the world, I learned so much from my classmates as well as the faculty. I made friends from all over the world and expanded my world view.
Q:Did you join any student clubs?
ONE:While studying for my degree at D'Amore-McKim, I organized and hosted Meetup language exchange workshops in my spare time. These events were for people who wanted to learn different languages. This design role helped me improve my organizational skills and expand my network in the Boston area.
Q:How did you develop personally and professionally through the course?
ONE:Personally, I made many friends from all over the world. Although some of them have returned to their countries, we continue to connect with each other. They have invited me to go to their countries and I am sure I will visit them there in the future. For those still here in the US, we hang out together in Boston so I don't feel alone. Professionally, I learned a lot from my teachers in this program. Our teachers are very professional. They had enough experience both professionally and academically. When I have a professional problem with my work, I always ask them to help me. They are always willing to help me with any business issue or work related question I have. In addition, I am doing OPT (Optional Practical Training) now for an American company. The knowledge I gained through the Graduate Certificate in Business Administration is applied to my work and gaining this work experience in the US sets me apart from other professionals.
Q:What was the best part of your OPT experience?
ONE:After completing the certificate program at D'Amore-McKim, I used Northeastern's Career Development database to search for a job that would allow me to take advantage of my OPT opportunity. Through the database, I found a job at a real estate company. The best part of my OPT experience was working with amazing professionals at work. Before working there, I didn't have a lot of work experience. My colleagues taught me many communication, organizational, business and people skills.
Q:What is your most interesting memory from your time at Northeastern?
ONE:Best memory is getting my degree at the beginning. I was so happy to receive my diploma as proof of all my work and effort. After commencement, I sent my parents a photo of my certificate. They were very proud of me.
Q:How has Northeastern's reputation in the business world helped you gain an edge in your career?
ONE:As one of the best universities in Boston, I met many alumni and students from the Northeast through my work. I work for a real estate company and some of my coworkers are also from Northeastern University as are many of my clients. It helps me expand my network. When we know we are Northeasterners, we feel more connected!
Q:What is your current occupation and what led you there?
ONE:I am currently studying to complete a Masters in Project Management at Northeastern. I was able to transfer the 15 credits I earned through my master's program to D'Amore-McKim—meaning that by earning just another 31 credits, I will be able to earn my master's degree as well.
Q:How about a prospective student considering D'Amore-McKim for their business degree or certificate?
ONE:I definitely recommend studying at D'Amore-McKim for your business degree or certificate. Through my experience with this program, I learned how to be a superior entrepreneur. Professors with vast experience and knowledge taught me how to help organizations grow. D'Amore-McKim can absolutely help you look ahead and plan for 21st century business success.
Q:How has your OPT experience benefited your life and career?
ONE:OPT was a great opportunity to build my business network in the US and learn more about business from people with advanced professional skills. Even after completing my OPT, I stayed in touch with my colleagues from that position so we could share professional knowledge.
