In a surprising career move, Stanford Graduate School of Business student Alex Yin opted for an unconventional internship in Bhutan over a more traditional finance role in Madrid. Despite the choice being less relevant to his immediate career in finance, Yin embraced the opportunity for personal growth in a unique setting.
During his MBA studies, Yin was faced with a decision between a finance-oriented internship in Madrid and a more adventurous role as an IT consultant on a hazelnut farm in Bhutan. His choice to work in Bhutan was driven by a longstanding desire to experience its unique culture, having been intrigued by the region since a vacation to Tibet as a teenager.
Yin’s month in Bhutan presented significant personal challenges. On his first day, he endured a strenuous hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery, which revealed the physical demands of living in the rugged landscape. The journey to Lingmethang, where he would work, involved an exhaustive 16-hour drive, setting the tone for a month of stepping out of his comfort zone.
In Bhutan, Yin’s professional responsibilities involved managing a constrained IT budget and enhancing the farm’s backup systems. Initially, he questioned his qualifications for the role. However, he discovered that dedication and focus enabled him to tackle tasks outside his prior experience. The simplicity of life in the village, free from the technological distractions of his previous environment, reinforced his satisfaction despite basic living conditions.
Yin integrated with the local community, engaging in social activities with colleagues and adjusting to the local diet, which was predominantly vegetarian. He found joy in the communal spirit of the company, which he observed was more cohesive than many U.S. workplaces due to their non-monetary approaches to employee loyalty.
Reflecting on his experience, Yin acknowledged that the internship might not align with his career in options trading in New Jersey. Yet, the skills and lessons in adaptability and teamwork were invaluable, contributing to his personal development. His time in Bhutan emphasized the importance of workplace harmony and the value of shared experiences beyond financial incentives.
Alex Yin’s choice to intern in Bhutan over a seemingly more practical career option exemplifies the importance of pursuing experiences that foster personal growth and resilience. Despite the challenges, the internship offered profound insights into adaptability and workplace culture, which he hopes to incorporate into his professional life in the United States. His experience underscores the value of embracing discomfort as a catalyst for development.
Source: Businessinsider
