On January 14, 2014, MSFS student Brian An (MSFS’14) met with MSFS alumnus Bruce Thomson (’12) for lunch at the World Bank Cafeteria to discuss Bruce’s current career and gain advice about his experience after he graduated from MSFS. His lunch with Bruce was part of the Link Up Program, an effort to connect students with local alumni. This program provides students with the opportunity to not only learn from experiences of alumni but also to expand their knowledge of careers in areas that interest them. Students contact alumni with similar career goals and MSFS covers the cost of the meal. Brian is one of several students who took advantage of this excellent networking opportunity.
During the lunch, Bruce, who is a Consultant at the World Bank, shared his responsibilities and duties as a short-term consultant at Development Economics Research Group. Brian learned strategies to customize his CV/resume to specific jobs and the importance of timing especially for consultant job. In addition, Brian also learned the practical difference and sustainability of the term of contract particularly for short-term consulting. Brian commented that Bruce was very honest in frustrations deriving from challenges in his position, and he appreciated gaining a better understanding of what the position entailed. In summary of his experience with the Link Up Program, Brian felt that he “could get a real sense about the Consultant position at the World Bank, which [he] is applying for these days, and Bruce was a really great alum in sharing his experience in detail.”