beyond borders dilemma podcast

Episode 10: Building Your Professional Identity Abroad: Finding Balance in Career and Personal Life

In this episode, we dive into the journey of building a professional identity abroad while maintaining a healthy work-life balance. For many international graduates and immigrant professionals, success goes beyond landing a job — it’s about adapting to new workplace cultures, managing personal well-being, and staying connected to your identity. Inspired by the story of Dr. Barbara Amoah, this conversation explores practical strategies for thriving in a new environment, including setting boundaries, prioritizing self-care, building support systems, and overcoming imposter syndrome. Tune in for honest insights on resilience, adaptation, and creating a fulfilling career without losing yourself along the way.

Episode 9: Transition from graduate student into Professor of Economics

International students pursuing academic careers often face uncertainty in navigating the transition from student to professor. In this article, Dr. Tinesha Dacaz shares her journey from Jamaica to academia in the United States, highlighting the realities of the academic career pipeline. She explains that becoming a professor involves much more than teaching, including research, mentorship, publishing, and community service. Dr. Dacass also discusses common challenges international students face, such as visa restrictions, publishing pressure, and understanding the academic job market. She emphasizes the importance of mentorship, building a strong publication record, and finding institutions that align with one’s strengths and values. Her story encourages international students to remain adaptable, seek guidance, and actively engage in academic communities as they pursue careers in academia.

Episode 8: Navigating Financial Realities as an International Student

In this episode of Beyond Borders Dilemma, Dr. Naomi Manu is joined by Dr. Augustine Bosomtwe to explore the financial realities of studying abroad for international students. Beyond tuition, many students face unexpected school fees, living expenses, and financial constraints that can significantly affect their experience. Dr. Bosomtwe shares his journey of adapting to these challenges, including recalibrating his budget, managing financial pressure as a Graduate Research Assistant, and making personal sacrifices to stay focused on his academic goals. The conversation also highlights the emotional and mental weight of financial uncertainty, as well as the importance of transparency from institutions and reading and understanding as well as proactive planning by potential students. Whether you’re preparing to study abroad or currently navigating the experience, this episode offers valuable insights and practical lessons to help you plan smarter and thrive despite the challenges. Key Topics: * Tuition vs. hidden school fees * Budgeting and financial adaptation * Work limitations for international students * Sacrifices and lifestyle adjustments * Preparing for unexpected expenses Tags: international students, studying abroad, financial challenges, budgeting, higher education, student finances Join and follow @beyond_borders_dilemma

Episode 7: When your PI moves Universities

Ever felt trapped by your PI's decisions? I did when mine moved Universities without warning. Here's what I learned... Tag someone who needs to hear this! Transitioning schools as a graduate student isn’t just about changing classrooms; it’s an emotional rollercoaster. When my supervisor decided to move to Tulane, I felt blindsided. What happens to your funding, research, and visa status? It’s a lot to unpack. I was left with two options: move with her or stay behind with another PI. The pressure was real. This experience taught me the importance of advocating for myself and understanding the academic landscape. Navigating these changes is tough, especially for international students. We often don’t have the same flexibility as domestic students. Just remember, you’re not alone in this journey. It’s okay to seek support and ask questions. What are your thoughts on handling supervisor transitions? #GraduateLife #InternationalStudents #PhDJourney #AcademicChallenges #BeyondBordersDilemma

Episode 6: Overcoming Rejection: A Story of Resilience

Rejection is often seen as failure—but in many cases, it is simply a redirection. Dr. Nana Yaw Kusi’s journey from Ghana to becoming an Associate Professor of Soil Science in the United States is a powerful example of resilience in the face of uncertainty. After completing his bachelor’s degree, Dr. Kusi recognized that advancing in his field required further education. With determination, he pursued graduate studies in the U.S., successfully passed the GRE, and secured admission. However, just as he was ready to begin, his visa application was denied due to timing issues related to his reporting date. For many, this would have been the end of the journey. Instead, he chose persistence. After a period of reflection and preparation, he reapplied—and this time, he succeeded. In January 2013, he began his academic journey in the United States, eventually becoming a professor. Key lessons from his journey: * Rejection is not always final—it can be a strategic pause * Persistence often matters more than initial success * Mentorship and guidance can make a critical difference * Long-term vision helps navigate short-term setbacks For students and professionals navigating similar challenges, Dr. Kusi’s story is a reminder: setbacks do not define your future—your response does.