Archive for the ‘Career Development’ Category
Labor Day
Friday, September 2nd, 2011Labor Day—the first Monday in September—celebrates the contributions workers have made to the strength, prosperity, and well-being of America.
The first observance of Labor Day is believed to have been a parade of 10,000 workers on Sept. 5, 1882, in New York City, organized by Peter J. McGuire, a Carpenters and Joiners Union secretary. By 1893, more than half the states were observing “Labor Day” on one day or another, and Congress passed a bill to establish a federal holiday in 1894. President Grover Cleveland signed the bill soon afterward, designating the first Monday in September as Labor Day.
Read more here
10 Tips for a Successful Career
Wednesday, August 31st, 2011Source: CNN Money
Ever since Fortune, in 1998, started ranking the top women in business (yes, we were first), I’ve been asking the stars of the Most Powerful Women list how they reached the top and how they stay there. One month away from revealing our 2011 MPW rankings, now seems a good time to share some of their best career tips. Here is my Top 10:
1. Don’t plan your career.
2. Forget the ladder.
3. Worry about the job you’re in.
4. Follow your compass, not your clock.
5. Take risks.
6. Be yourself.
7. Don’t balance. Juggle.
8. Give thanks.
9. Don’t leave before you leave.
10. Own your power.
Read details here
Her Understanding of American Culture is more Complete
Wednesday, August 24th, 2011By Diana Quinonez-Soto
To provide you with a better understanding of what it is like studying, living and working in the United States, we like to feature international students and foreign young professionals who have done it.
Today, we are happy to share with you the story of Jui-Ling Chiang. She was a Mandarin instructor at South Carolina State University from 2010 to 2011. She will study at Northern Illinois University for the Ed.D program (Doctorate of Education, in Educational Psychology) beginning Fall 2011.
Full name
Jui-Ling Chiang. But, my friends call me “Raye”, as Jui is pronounced similarly to “Ray”.
Provide a brief bio about yourself – where did you grow up, etc…
I grew up in Yi-Lan, Taiwan. Mandarin Chinese and Taiwanese are my native language. I studied at St. Cloud State University for my Master’s Degree. I participated in the Ohio State University for Chinese Teacher training program. Finally, I have both studied and taught at South Carolina State University in 2010-2011.
Your home country/ country of citizenship?
Taiwan
Where are you studying or working in the USA?
I taught Mandarin Chinese at South Carolina State University in 2010-2011. I will study at Northern Illinois University for the Ed.D program beginning Fall 2011.
Why did you decide to study or work in the U.S.A.?
I first learn English when I was in fourth grade. I was amazed by people who spoke different language from me, but yet went to school as me. I wondered how they thought, if they enjoyed school, etc. I made up my mind, then, of wanting to study in the U.S.A. and make friends from all over the world when I would reach my maturity age.
What school / university are you studying in or what company are you working for?
I studied at St. Cloud State University for a Master’s Degree and underwent the Ohio State University for Chinese Teacher training program. I also studied and taught at South Carolina State University in 2010-2011. I will be attending Northern Illinois University for the Ed.D program starting this upcoming fall.
How did you choose your university or employer?
I had to have financial support in order to pursue a degree in the U.S. Therefore, I choose a school that is able to fit my need.
How long have you been living in the USA?
Almost 5 years.
What course/degree are you taking? What is your mission (if you are working)?
I received the Information Media Master’s degree and will be working on obtaining the Ed.D degree in Instructional Technology Ed.D. But when I was in OSU, I took several Chinese teaching pedagogy classes. When I was in South Carolina State University, I took Museum Class, Black Issue in Education and Figure and worked in a Museum internship.
What do you like best about your American experience?
Friendship. The experience I received in America did not involve just studying but also in obtaining and building up strong friendships with people as well. I learned Mid-Eastern culture, African culture, Spanish culture, African-American culture, Gullah Culture and Asian culture here in the U.S.
The experiences opened my eyes to seeing things from several different angles as they can be interpreted in so many different ways depending on different ethnic backgrounds one may interpret from. I also learned to never use my own standard to look at things and to never assume people know as my “common sense” may be different from others.
11. What was it like during the first week you arrived in the USA?
Culture shock. I was waiting for “sunset” to have dinner when I first arrived to Minnesota. I felt like I was starving, but wondered why it was still bright outside. I will never forget that. I also remember searching the entire school building to find a “hot water fountain” but never finding one. It surprised me when I found out that many Americans use the microwave to heat up hot water.
Have you encountered any problems while moving and living in the USA?
Yes, transportation and weather. I did not have a car for a couple years. I had to rely on public transportation or friends to go around school or town. It is difficult especially in the winter time.
What has been your best moment while living, studying and/or working in the USA?
I have so many wonderful memories in the USA, such as mission trips to Cebeque, AZ with InterVarsity Christian Fellow St. Cloud State Chapter, studying in the lab, learning to make different country cousins, gaining friendship with others, struggling and being frustrated with research paper but was comforted by friends, and so on. I can publish a book to share these wonderful experiences!
But, last year, I teaching and studying at South Carolina State University was one of my best years studying in the US. I learned the other side of American History that is from the African American perspective. I felt I walked into a hidden history with the story still continuing going on. I felt the overflow of passion for freedom when I visited the Gantt Cottage where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. wrote “I Have a Dream”. I also visited Penn Center, a foundation for African American education. Those are significant, but not as revealed to the world. I am blessed to study at SCSU as I have never felt myself is so close to “history”.
How has your English improved?
Practice, practice, and practice. Similar as I learn Mandarin Chinese.
What I did:
• Checked the dictionary for new vocabulary
• Asked friends/teachers if I didn’t understand the word they would
• Had friends to proofread papers with me. It helped a lot to pick up the American way of speaking and writing.
How have you handled language and cultural differences?
Crying and screaming! No, I didn’t. If I didn’t understand, I asked. Even though I have lived in the States almost for 5 years, I still ask. I don’t feel bad if the question is first grade. I have even asked my ex-roommate to correct my English if I made mistakes, which she did.
How well did you feel adapted to the U.S college life and culture?
Living with American students was a big challenge, but also a great opportunity to learn their ways of living. I lived with Americans since my second semester to my graduation from St. Cloud State University. I build up close relationships with all my roommates, whom I still keep contact with.
From my understanding, most American students have their own social groups since elementary school. They may go to college with their best friends, but a lot of them are open to building up another friendship in the college. Keep in mind that America is big so students from South to North feel the distance and also encounter culture shock as well. So, I do not think my culture shock is that bad at all. I would think a lot American students are just like us, but speak better English.
Which aspects of the American culture have you already assimilated? Which parts remain obscure?
Building up my circle of friends, participate in community service, speak out my mind, agree to disagree… etc.
Are you facing some type(s) of challenges or difficulties while living in the USA?
Challenge is everywhere. Discrimination still exists. However, not everyone has stereotypes. It always takes times to learn a new environment and culture.
What do you like to do outside the school or your job?
Hang out with friends, hiking, reading, watch movies, and road trip with friends!
How easy or difficult is it to make friends?
If you are an open mind person, it is not too difficult to make new friends.
What was your biggest obstacle to live, study and/or work in the USA?
Paperwork. Too much paperwork drives me crazy and is confusing. At Universities, if the Administration Department lacks of communication with other offices, it often causes a lot frustrations.
Would you recommend studying or working in the USA? Why or why not?
I would recommend international student study in the U.S.
How is your U.S. education or working experience relevant to your personal goals and to the needs of your country?
After I receive my Master’s degree emphasis on Adult Learning Theory and Instructional Design, I applied the knowledge and skills into the work field. I soon found out that I could also apply the knowledge across many fields, such as Marketing, Planning, Language Training, etc. In sum, the knowledge strengthens me with flexibility and comprehension ability.
What advice would you give to fellow international students who are yet to study or work in the USA?
Embrace and always appreciate what you have. Never ever compare your situation with others, especially in comparing the U.S. culture and people from your own country. Comparison makes so many international students so unhappy when they study in America.
What are you most excited about right now? What is the next big thing you are looking forward to?
I am excited and scared at the same time in undergoing my first year as a Ph.D student at Northern Illinois University in this upcoming Fall 2011 term. I never thought that I would into scholar field, but now I have the opportunity. I will go with all my strength to learn. It will be great to be called “Dr. Chiang”!
How to connect with you?
Linkedin : here
Read more about Raye here
Join our community of Cultural Ambassadors on Facebook here
Would like to be featured on our blog? please contact us here.
Champions of Change: Young Entrepreneurs
Saturday, August 20th, 2011Young entrepreneurs share their stories and personal experiences.
The “Champions of Change” program is a weekly series where the White House highlights the stories and examples of citizens across the country that represents President Obama’s vision of out-innovating, out-educating, and out-building the rest of the world through effective projects and initiatives that move their communities forward. This week, the White House will welcome several young entrepreneurs to Washington to share their success stories and discuss how we can continue to encourage and inspire young people to start their own companies. The Champions will engage in discussion with a diverse audience from aspiring entrepreneurs to established business leaders who are interested in the extraordinary example of these young people winning the future.
Source: the White House
3 Tips for Acing an Interview
Saturday, August 20th, 2011During a job interview, it’s important to explain what you can do for the company, but it is just as imperative to build trust with the person interviewing you. Here are three ways to align yourself with the interviewer:
1. Mirror body language. Even if you aren’t comfortable, portray yourself as poised and friendly. When the interviewer uses open body language — leaning in toward you or keeping her arms open — do the same.
2. Find common interests. Look for ways that the interviewer and you are alike. These may be shared interests or experiences. Ideally they are work-related; for example, you may both have a passion for solving tough problems.
3. Tell stories with a moral. Every anecdote you tell should have a point. Well-shaped stories with a purpose can convey your most desirable qualities — loyalty, work ethic, or trustworthiness.
Today’s Management Tip was adapted from “Guide to Getting a Job.”
Source : Harvard Business Review
How to Grow a Business
Wednesday, August 17th, 2011Join dozens of today’s most influential business minds as they share tips and strategies, via video, to help you grow your business, leverage opportunities and increase profits. Each speaker will share a 5-15 minute video with a specific tip based on their expertise.
Here are some of the speakers:
Guy Kawasaki
Chris Brogan
Michael Stelzner
Scott Gerber
Dan Schawbel
Josh Kaufman
Amy Cosper
and more …
Cost?
The event is free of charge online during the main event dates (September 12 – September 23). You get free, instant, on-demand access to the entire line-up of presenters.
Sign up here
Recruiters Troll Facebook for Candidates They Like
Tuesday, August 9th, 2011More companies are trying to tap Facebook Inc.’s 750-million-plus user base to find new employees, threatening traditional job boards and competing with LinkedIn Corp., which has dominated the online professional networking arena.
Facebook’s use as a job-recruitment tool remains small, but its appeal may be growing. Some recruiters say they have all but eliminated their spending on job boards, which can charge a few hundred dollars per job posting, depending on volume. Others note that while LinkedIn contains a more comprehensive résumé database, candidates tend to value referrals from their connections on Facebook more. Read more here
Three Things You DON’T Want to Do When Making a New Connection
Saturday, August 6th, 2011Today Keith Ferrazzi shares his top three “don’t”s when creating relationships with new contacts. Here’s a hint: leave your ego at the door.