Career Evolution Post Studying International Management
After pursuing a degree in International Management, I found myself engaging in a wide range of roles that have significantly shaped my career path and professional experience. Initially, my academic pursuits led me to work in laboratories, which highlighted my hands-on aptitude. Reflecting on this, I realized that a career in engineering or physics might have been a more natural fit, but instead, I ended up in Research and Development (RD) for a molecular diagnostics biotech company. While pursuing management roles could have been a reasonable trajectory, the lack of interest in the field led me to explore other avenues.
Applying Knowledge to Enhance Experience
One of the key takeaways from my studies was the application of knowledge to further enrich my experience. This included understanding the needs of the market and the complexities of managing a multicultural business environment. My career has largely revolved around managing parts of companies that operate internationally, often dealing with service organizations for high-tech companies. The experience involved international operations with partners or subsidiaries in Europe and Asia, which has helped me understand the legal and cultural differences between the U.S. and these regions.
The study of international management enabled me to develop systems that facilitate cross-cultural and geographically diverse operations. My experience managing these operations suggested that such a degree could serve as a valuable credential for entry-level roles in management or law. Many companies have found professionals with this education to be particularly useful in local management positions, leveraging the cross-cultural and international operational experience.
Collaborating Internationally
One of the highlights of my career was working with a Hungarian partner to develop joint ventures between U.S. and European business ventures. This collaboration included writing a business plan for the company and conducting independent business analyses for international firms. These experiences were pivotal in refining my understanding of international business and law, eventually leading me to further my education and obtain a law degree.
My journey in international business didn't stop there. After graduating from Drexel University in Philadelphia, I initially worked as a Chief Engineer for five years. This hands-on experience allowed me to travel, meet customers, and address issues faced by the sales and marketing staff. The on-the-job training was instrumental in preparing me for the challenges of international business. My ability to work effectively with the sales and marketing teams earned the trust of my boss, the General Manager of the division, who then saw fit to assign me the responsibility of international operations.
Legal Career and Retirement
After years of dedicated work, I eventually retired after serving almost 50 years in my career. While my business studies didn't directly lead to my international business or marketing roles, a combination of hard work, experience, and a bit of luck played a significant role in securing the dream job. My unique blend of technical, managerial, and legal skills became invaluable.
Reflecting on my career, it is clear that the study of international management provided a solid foundation for my professional growth. Whether it was working in laboratories, managing international operations, or pursuing a legal career, the skills and knowledge acquired during that period have been instrumental in my success.