This week, I had the pleasure of speaking with M. Umar Khan, a fellow player at the Deakin Cricket Club and a penultimate-year student at Deakin University studying Master’s in Business Analytics and Artificial Intelligence. Umar shared his insights as an international student navigating the challenging job market in Australia and his entrepreneurial ambitions.
📍Q: What challenges have you faced as an international student in the Australian job market?
Umar: “The job market here is quite competitive for international students. Initially, it was tough to even get internship opportunities. However, reaching out directly to recruiters and being willing to start with unpaid internships was key. Demonstrating your value can lead to good recommendations or even job offers.”
📍Q: How important are internships in building a career here, and what strategies have you found effective in securing them?
Umar: “Internships are crucial, especially for gaining local experience. My strategy has been to proactively contact recruiters and express my willingness to learn and contribute, which has opened up several opportunities. Even unpaid roles are valuable as they often lead to more significant positions.”
📍Q: How has being a part of the Deakin Cricket Club influenced your personal and professional growth?
Umar: “Being part of the Deakin Cricket Club has been transformative for both my personal and professional development. The camaraderie and leadership opportunities within the club have not only enhanced my team-building skills but also opened up numerous networking opportunities. Playing cricket has allowed me to connect with a diverse group of individuals, fostering relationships that extend beyond the field and into professional realms.”
📍Q: One message for the world?
Umar: “A quote by Mark Manson – Competence is how good you are when there is something to gain. Character is how good you are when there is nothing to gain. People will reward you for competence. But people will only love you for your character. “
✨ Here are my key takeaways:
Umar emphasizes the importance of internships for international students looking to establish a career in Australia. He advocates for taking initiative, such as directly reaching out to recruiters and accepting initial positions that may not be paid. His journey towards entrepreneurship also highlights the significance of acquiring a diverse skill set and building a strong professional network. Umar’s story is a testament to the resilience and proactive approach needed to succeed in competitive environments.
