How Identity Has Influenced an Engagement Manager at Connor's Career
Willie's immigrant identity significantly limited initial job prospects, as "out of a hundred companies...maybe 10 companies sponsor," creating a sense of urgency that fueled their career drive. This urgency, coupled with a strong desire to succeed, ultimately proved advantageous in securing employment.
Overcoming Challenges, Resilience, Job Search, Motivation, Immigration
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Willie Lee
Engagement Manager
Connor
Binghamton University School of Management
Binghamton University School of Management - MS, UCLA Anderson School of Management - MBA
Communications, Economics
Technology
Product / Service / Software Development and Management
None Applicable
Video Highlights
1. Limited job options due to immigration status created a sense of urgency and determination.
2. The need for sponsorship reduced the number of available companies but increased motivation.
3. Overcoming challenges as an immigrant fostered resilience and a strong work ethic.
Transcript
Q13: How identity impacted career
As someone who identifies as an immigrant, how has that impacted how you navigated your career? It's a loaded question, but I think for me, first of all, obviously your options are a lot lesser.
When I first moved here as an international student trying to get a job, you needed sponsorship. Out of a hundred companies I approached, maybe the top 10 sponsored. So, those lesser options made me stronger.
I think it made me want it a little more. I've seen some of my American friends, not to say they don't desire the job as much, but they have less urgency. When it comes to taking action, I have a sense of urgency. Urgency is key, right?
So, that probably helped me a lot in terms of successfully landing a job eventually. I would say that having that sense of urgency being an immigrant really helped me.
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