Meet Biyan Song from the MS in Marketing and Retail Science(MSMRS) program, Class of 2023 and learn more about her experiences post-graduation.
Current Job Title and Company Name: Global Alliance and Partnerships Specialist at Hanshow Technology Co., LTD.
Favorite spot on the NYU Stern and/or NYU Shanghai campus: NYU Shanghai Lawn
1. Tell us a bit about what you are doing now?
I am currently working at Hanshow Technology as a Global Alliance and Partnerships Specialist. My role has evolved since I started working as a Marketing Management Trainee for approximately four months. My current position is under the Corporate Strategy & Global Alliance and Partnerships department. I have been able to incorporate my passion for ESG and event management into my work while also taking on new responsibilities of searching for and establishing alliances and partnerships globally.
In the next three to five years, my professional goal is to continue to develop my marketing skills and gain extensive experience in diverse global markets such as China, the United States, Europe, and Australia. After achieving this milestone, I plan to transition into a leadership position as a marketing manager, where I can utilize my expertise to drive company growth and mentor the next generation of marketing professionals. Within the next five to ten years, my aspiration is to become a renowned thought leader in the marketing industry, sharing my knowledge and insights with others, and contributing to the advancement of marketing practices. Ultimately, my lifetime career goal is to use my skills and experience to make a meaningful impact on society and the environment, working towards creating a better future for all.
For fun, I enjoy traveling to new places and immersing myself in different cultures. I have made it a personal goal to visit at least one new country each year since I was 12 years old. Through these experiences, I continue to learn and grow both personally and professionally.
2. How do you feel your MS degree prepared you for what you are doing now?
My MS degree has been instrumental in preparing me for my current role in numerous ways. Upon completing my first class, Business Communication, my professor expressed her belief in my potential for success and growth in my field. The other course that I found particularly relevant to my current job is the capstone project. During this project, I had the opportunity to lead a team of four members in collaboration with the corporate client, where we researched travel trends among generation Z in China. This project involved conducting research using various methods such as focus groups, interviews, surveys, and data analysis. The experience of working on a real-world problem helped me apply what I learned in the classroom to practical situations. The skills I developed during the capstone project, such as critical thinking, teamwork, leadership, and effective presentation skills, have been invaluable in my current role which allowed me to effectively work within a team, spot highlights in complex data, and present insights effectively. These are skills that are highly relevant to my current job, and I continue to use them daily.
The MS program is designed to expose students to real-world situations and challenges that we may encounter in our future careers. In addition to the Capstone, our professors facilitated connections with several industry-leading companies, including Hilton, Aveeno, Meta, Vacheron Constantin, Hormel, among others, for guest talks and company visits. Throughout the program, I also formed long-term friendships while receiving unwavering support, encouragement, and guidance from classmates, advisors, and professors.
3. What is your advice for the current students and/or prospective students?
Seizing opportunities when they arise is essential. While you may face challenges and obstacles, it is vital to approach them with a positive mindset and a willingness to learn.
My advice to current and prospective students is to seize opportunities when you spot them. To be more specific and under most of your circumstances, try not to be afraid to apply to your dream company or school program, even if you fear rejection. Conduct research and seek help from peers, advisors, and alumni. With proper preparation and practice, take a chance and try your best. If successful, congratulations! If not, accept the outcome, learn from the experience, and never stop believing in yourself.
If given the opportunity to do things differently in my master's program, I would have started earlier to find a job and prepare for applications and interviews before the spring quarter. My fall quarter was packed with classes four days a week and internships, making it challenging to balance my life effectively among school, internship, and job search. Balancing my priorities better would have been ideal. However, I learned to appreciate and make the most of my present circumstances.
In summary, embrace challenges, take calculated risks, and utilize resources. Enjoy your Master's program, maintain a positive outlook throughout the journey and never let rejection hinder your progress.