About Zarema

Hometown: Almaty
Country: Kazakhstan
Current Position: Purchasing Specialist at Merck KGaA
Previous University: KIMEP University
Undergraduate Degree: Bachelor of Science in Public Administration
Q:What's your most interesting memory from your time at Northeastern?

A: I moved to Boston alone, met friends at orientation, and since then we've never separated. They are from Tunisia, Lebanon, Turkey, Russia, Indonesia, and India. Now that we completed the certificate, I'm thinking about visiting my friends in their countries, to learn more about their culture. Also, I loved to study business with Americans in the master's programs. Moreover, the professors are amazing; I hope to be friends with Paul Tagliamonte and Nada Sanders forever.

Q:What is your current profession and what led you there?

A:I'm on my OPT right now. My role is in purchasing and procurement, the major part of Supply Chain Management. I feel very happy; this program connected me with my future career. Northeastern University is a very good playground for networking. I was really surprised to meet people in my classes from large and global companies such as Raytheon, Bose, TJX, etc. As a result, one of my classmates just gave me an opportunity to come to interview.

Q:How did D'Amore-McKim prepare you for this career in the global business world?

A:I learned the necessary fundamentals, which has become my everyday routine, and I love it.

Q:What would you say to a prospective student considering D'Amore-McKim for their business degree?

A:As an experienced professional, I didn't know how long I want to study and what I want to do in my future. I considered a certificate program because it's short, specific, and gave me chance to challenge myself abroad. This is a great option for young professionals or for someone who wants to leave his or her comfort zone.

Q:How has D'Amore-McKim helped you become more?

A:I've become more confident, open, and self-motivated. In my country we had lectures and exams, participation was unnecessary, but here in U.S. the professors are so friendly, it has been easy to learn, to study, to participate and discuss important topics, news and express my own opinion about case studies and through writing projects.