【Interview】IBMBA Alumni Anna Kiseleva(Class of 2015)
How I decided on NSYSU to pursue my International Business MBA Degree
Anna Kiseleva shares her unique experience at IBMBA Program, National Sun Yat-sen University,
Anna Kiseleva
Originally from Russia
Lives and works in Taiwan
IBMBA Alumni Class of 2015
NSYSU, Taiwan
As part of the Leading Global Academia in Taiwan, the International Business MBA and Global HRM MBA programs at NSYSU are committed to provide a diverse and inclusive learning environment for our local and international students. Our alumnus Anna Kiseleva came from Russia to Taiwan to study in the IBMBA program. Zhanna Samodurova, President of the Students Association, conducted an interview with Anna and asked her a few questions about her experience.
“Besides gaining professional knowledge, international experience, internship and current job, my husband and I met in the IBMBA program, and I can say that this was one of the most unforgettable memories and life-changing events happened to me at NSYSU. Also making new international friends is a great experience and business connections for the rest of my life” said Anna Kiseleva, our alumni from IBMBA.
-Anna, we know you attended the IBMBA program from 2013-2015. Why did you choose Taiwan for studying?
The field of my studies was International Economics where we had to study two foreign languages and travel abroad for language exchange. I started learning Chinese and went to China, and then I travelled to the United States where I saw Taipei Economic and Cultural Office. That was the sign. Later I was curious about Taipei, and how it is different from mainland China. I came back to Russia to finish my master degree and saw a Chinese language cram school that offered help applying to Taiwan universities. I spent one year learning traditional characters in that cram school and preparing for the next move. That’s basically how I choose Taiwan.
-What do you like about the country Taiwan?
I like three things about Taiwan - the convenience, the infrastructure and the people. The people in Taiwan generally are very polite and friendly which makes it easier for communication and interactions. Taiwan is convenient for a living, too. Everywhere you go you can find a 24-hour convenience store such as 7/11 or Family Mart where you can buy a snack, a cup of coffee, withdraw money from the ATM or even send a parcel and pay the electricity bills. I like how efficient and clear Taiwan government works, this is a matter of minutes to get a document or receive professional services. Taiwan is truly a Formosa island. The only thing that is hard to bear is its humid and hot climate, but there is air conditioning everywhere, so it is manageable to survive hot summer days.
-Why did you choose the IBMBA Program at NSYSU?
I choose IBMBA program as a continuous next stage of my education which is closely related to my first master degree in Russia – International Economics. I decided right after the graduation in 2013.
-Who was your favorite professor during your studying at NSYSU, why?
I think every professor contributed to my professional growth, some gave me opportunities, while others guide me throughout research. I want to show my special gratitude to professor Bih-shiaw Jaw who was my thesis advisor that gave me freedom to choose a topic, conduct a research and made my own choices.
-What was your favorite course during your entire program, why?
Seminar in Business Management - the course where I learned more practical skills and gained business knowledge from successful business professionals in Taiwan. It was a good chance to meet practitioners from industries and learn how to apply theoretical knowledge in real business world.
- Let’s talk about your work experience. Did you have any internship while studying?
I seized an opportunity offered by IBMBA program to have an internship while studying. I was an intern in R&D Department at Taiwan Fu Hsing Industrial Co., Ltd. My job tasks included market research and product marketing. During the time of internship, I learned a lot about Taiwanese business culture, lifestyle and internal hierarchy. It gave me a broad idea of how to succeed in the culture that is very different from what I get used to.
-Could you please tell us about your current position?
After graduation I moved to Taipei looking for opportunities in high-tech companies. Luckily, I was invited to join Winmate Inc., a rugged computing and embedded solutions provider for industries operating in some of the most challenging environments. It has been 5 years since I joined Product & Marketing Dept. as a Product Marketing Manager.
-Was it hard for you to find a job after graduation?
I found my job at 104 – a famous online portal Taiwan. For me it was not difficult mainly because of my Chinese language skills. Back in the time I was fluent in reading, writing and speaking. In Taiwan you still have to speak Chinese to feel comfortable no matter in business or everyday life.
-Did you feel that Degree from NSYSU helped you while job-hunting period?
Yes, the MBA program of NSYSU is one of the top-ranked in Taiwan and IBMBA program has AACSB accreditation. The HR usually checks the university first before moving forward to personal information and professional background. Master degree at NSYSU opens up many employment opportunities in Taiwan.
-What is a moment that you never will forget about your life at NSYSU?
Besides gaining professional knowledge, international experience, and internship, my husband and I met in the IBMBA program, and I can say that this was one of the most unforgettable memories and life-changing events happened to me at NSYSU. Also making new international friends is a great experience and business connections for the rest of my life.
-Would you recommend this program to your friends or future Master students?
Definitely, I believe that this is a good chance to foster your international cooperation skills, expand your knowledge of Asian culture and gain business knowledge and expertise from local perspective.
Respondent: Anna Kiseleva (NSYSU, IBMBA Alumni, Class of 2015)
Interviewer: Zhanna Samodurova (President of Students Association, 2020)
Date: 15/06/2020
