When Alex Yin, a Stanford MBA student, was faced with two internship paths, he chose Bhutan over a finance-focused offer in Madrid. This unexpected choice wasn’t the easiest career decision, but it turned out to be life-changing.
Yin, 32, from New Jersey, initially faced a tough choice: interning with a family office in Madrid or taking on the less conventional role of IT consultant at a hazelnut farm in Bhutan. Despite his background in finance and statistics from New York University and experience as an options trader in Chicago, the lure of Bhutan’s unique culture and scenery, reminiscent of his youthful travels in Tibet, tipped the scales.
Upon accepting the second offer, Yin embarked on a lengthy journey, first flying 14 hours to New Delhi, followed by a five-hour flight to Bhutan. His adventure kicked off with a meeting with the charismatic CEO of Mountain Hazelnuts, who took him on an intense hike to the Tiger’s Nest Monastery. Yin’s resolve to embrace discomfort was tested early, with steep trails and sweltering conditions challenging his commitment.
In Lingmethang, where he lived and worked, Yin faced the reality of his role. As IT consultant, he was tasked with managing a limited budget and bolstering the security of backup systems—tasks he’d never done before. Despite his initial uncertainty, he discovered that focus and dedication could overcome a lack of direct experience.
Beyond work, Yin immersed himself in the local culture, enjoying evenings in the village with colleagues, savoring local dumplings known as momos, and appreciating a slower pace of life. These interactions provided a stark contrast to the fast-paced social life at Stanford.
Yin learned valuable lessons from his time in Bhutan, chiefly about adapting to new environments. Despite a simple lifestyle and initial challenges like running out of mosquito repellent and adjusting to vegetarian meals, he found happiness without modern distractions.
Furthermore, the internship offered unexpected insights into workplace dynamics. The collective spirit of the company, despite financial struggles, impressed Yin. The staff’s dedication and camaraderie, often celebrated through family-inclusive gatherings, stood in contrast to the monetary loyalty seen in American firms. Yin’s experience reinforced the value of workplace cohesion and performance based on shared goals over financial incentives.
Reflecting on his time in Bhutan, Alex Yin cherishes his decision, valuing the insights and experiences gained. He’s back in New Jersey, resuming his career in options trading, but Bhutan left a mark on him. The experience challenged him personally and professionally, making the unconventional choice worthwhile.
Source: Yahoo
