Q:How did the Graduate Certificate in Business Administration for International Students open doors for your future?

A:This program helped me a great deal. First of all, it was an important experience for me before entering the master's 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 the program concludes. Because students are from all around the world, I learned so much from my classmates as well as the faculty. I made friends from all around the world, and expanded my global view.

Q:Did you participate in any student clubs?

A:While I was studying for my graduate certificate at D'Amore-McKim, I organized and hosted Meetup Language Exchange workshops in my free time. These events were for people who wanted to learn different languages. This planning role helped me to improve organizational skills and expand my network in the Boston Area.

Q:How did you grow personally and professionally through the course?

A:Personally, I made a lot of friends from all around the world. Even though some of them went back to their countries, we are still connecting 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 who are still here in the U.S., we hang out together in Boston and I don't feel alone as a result.  Professionally, I learned a lot from my teachers in this program. Our teachers are very professional. They had plenty of experience both working professionally and academically.  When I have professional problem with my work, I always ask them to help. They are always willing to help me with any business issue or work related question I have.Moreover, I'm doing my OPT (Optional Practical Training) now for an American company. The knowledge I gained through the Graduate Certificate in Business Administration is being applied to my work and gaining that work experience in the U.S. sets me apart from other professionals.

Q:What was the best part of your OPT experience?

A:After I completed my certificate program at D'Amore-McKim, I used Northeastern's Career Development database to look for a job that would allow me to capitalize on 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 on the job. Before I worked there, I didn't have rich work experience. My colleagues taught me a lot of communication, organization, business, and people skills.

Q:What's your most interesting memory from your time at Northeastern?

A:My best memory is receiving my graduate certificate at commencement. I was so happy to receive my diploma as proof of all my work and effort. After commencement, I sent my parents a picture of my certificate. They were very proud of me.

Q:How has Northeastern's reputation in the business world helped give you an advantage in your career?

A:As one of best universities in Boston, I met plenty of Northeastern alumni and students through my job. I'm working 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 networking. When we know we are from Northeastern, we feel more connected!

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

A:Currently, I am studying to complete a master's degree in Project Management at Northeastern. I was able to transfer the 15 credits I earned through my graduate certificate program at D'Amore-McKim—which means that by earning just another 31 credits, I'll be able to also earn my master's degree.

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

A:I definitely recommend studying at D'Amore-McKim for your business degree or certificate. Through my experience with this program, I have 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?

A:OPT was great opportunity to build my business network in the USA and learn more about business from people with advanced professional skills. Even after I completed my OPT, I've stayed in touch with my colleagues from that position so that we can share professional knowledge.