College Experiences That Helped a Brand Manager at Diageo China Succeed
Sharon's political science background unexpectedly led to a brand management career at Diageo China, thanks to "explor[ing] a lot of different extracurricular programs," including a creative and entrepreneurship program that provided business-related coursework and valuable networking opportunities. The persistent pursuit of career goals, including "reach[ing] out to the HR" at target companies, proved crucial in securing Sharon's first job.
Networking, Career Exploration, Persistence, Extracurricular Activities, Diverse Backgrounds
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Sharon Tsai
Brand Manager
Diageo China
National Taiwan University, 2012
UCLA Anderson School of Management, MBA
Political Science, American Studies
Food, Beverages & Alcohol
Communication and Marketing
International Student
Video Highlights
1. Explore extracurricular programs outside your major to explore different areas and meet people from diverse backgrounds.
2. Be persistent in pursuing your dreams and don't be afraid to reach out to people to network and find internships.
3. Develop skills in marketing and management through coursework and extracurricular activities relevant to your career goals
Transcript
Sharon, take me back to your time at National Taiwan University. What did you do during undergrad that set you up for success in your career?
In undergrad, I majored in political science. It seemed unlikely a political science major would become a fair manager. However, at school, I explored many different extracurricular programs.
I was selected for and enrolled in a program called Creative Entrepreneurship. This program offered marketing, management, and creative courses that helped me understand the business field. Within the program, I also met many extraordinary, intelligent people. I have built lifelong relationships with them.
I think exploring and enrolling in extracurricular programs outside of your major is very helpful. It allows you to explore different areas you might be interested in and meet people from diverse backgrounds.
Another thing I did was to be very persistent in pursuing my dreams. My goal at the time was to become a marketer at a consumer packaged goods company. I worked hard attending career fairs and networking with people in those companies.
I also found internships and reached out to HR departments at companies I was interested in. Being persistent and brave, and not being afraid to reach out to people, was critical for me to land my first job.