Career Seminar on International Organization “From Kobe University to World Bank”

On Friday, August 12, 2016, GSICS hosted a Career Seminar on International Organization titled “From Kobe University to World Bank” at the Main Conference Room, GSICS, Kobe University. The invited speaker for the seminar was Dr. Shinsaku Nomura who is currently working at the World Bank Headquarters as Senior Education Economist who also gave a summer intensive course at GSICS this month. Dr. Nomura obtained both his Master’s and Doctoral degrees at GSICS and started working at the World Bank as Consultant since his first year in Master’s program.

Dr. Nomura emphasized unique skill set of individuals. He advised participants to cultivate their own unique specialization and to have an accurate knowledge of where this specialization lies. Another piece of advice he offered was that, when working to succeed in ‘on the frontline’ in a competitive labor market, applicants have the best chance of finding strategies to market themselves if they have a good idea of their own abilities and, at the same time, understand the skills demand on the employer’s side. Next, it is important that they have a detailed idea about the type of work they want to do and develop customized strategies for their desired positions. For instance, regarding the question of whether a masters degree or a doctorate is required on the demand side (i.e. by any specific corporate or institution), applicants can simply ascertain how these qualifications are regarded from the point of view of their prospective employer and adjust the route they take accordingly; perhaps continuing their research or perhaps looking for a job to gain experience. Relatedly, students may consider taking into account their future career aspirations when selecting their dissertation topic.

Dr. Nomura added that Early Childhood Education (ECD) and Skills Development are two areas that are given higher priority in the research activities at international organizations including the World Bank. He also advised participants to make necessary efforts to inform themselves of employment opportunities and areas of recruitment that are announced on a rather irregular basis.

We noted many similarities between the counsel provided by Dr. Nomura and the professional advice that was often emphasized by Professor Ogawa and were once again reminded of the importance of conducting practical research. We take this opportunity to deliver our appreciation to Dr. Nomura for the very useful career seminar as well as to Professor Ogawa for creating the opportunity for us to learn from Dr. Nomura.

Authored by Seonkyung Choi
Doctoral Student, GSICS, Kobe University

Related Link
http://www.kobe-u.ac.jp/en/NEWS/event/2016_08_12_01.html