Most of the ideas that l bring to the workplace are easily looked upon as foreign without any other consideration. In fact, my colleagues always feel that l am now more of a symbol of a foreign culture than our own culture.
You are returning home with new knowledge, experience and ideas, and we hope that feel ready to put these into practice. You could be looking for a new job, or maybe you’re returning to your previous job and hoping to make a real difference to how things are done.
It can be challenging when others don’t want to consider your changes and this is something alumni have experienced following their studies.
"I tried to apply my new knowledge at my job but my boss found it unnecessary and irrelevant, even though it would actually be very useful."
Creating lasting change doesn’t happen overnight. You may need to spend some time readjusting to the work culture before you try to implement change. Focusing on your original goals and being patient can help you to stay motivated even when you are facing setbacks.
At the same time, don't aim to change everything all at once. Some systems might take a long time to improve, but remain patient. You can contribute to making positive change in your country.
ALUMNI TIPS
Go back and read through your Chevening application. Read through the details of what you said you want to achieve from pursuing a Masters in the UK; Review that 5/10 year plan you described; and re-strategise based on your reflections.
You might find it difficult to immediately apply what you learn at university at work, but Chevening is not only about the educational experience. It’s also about life skills which can be applied everyday. Eventually you will be able to apply what you learnt academically at work, but life skills will take you even further.