Lucky to Be Here is a podcast that showcases those who took the leap to build lives and careers across countries. They share their stories, their lessons, and their advice to show us what it means, and what it takes, to build a life and career abroad.

We may have an idea or goal in mind, but the conditions might not work in our favor. The key? Keep what drives you top of mind and adapt. The barriers may make it hard but you can still thrive. That is at the heart of today’s episode with Dr. Gertrude Nonterah.

Dr. Gertrude Nonterah has a PhD in Microbiology and Immunology. She's a scientific communications professional by day and shares post-PhD career insights for those seeking careers outside academia. Gertrude recently published a book called Navigating the P.I.V.O.T., which is a handbook for PhDs and academics looking to pivot to fulfilling careers outside the ivory tower.

Gertrude shares her inspiring journey from international student to successful science communicator, highlighting the importance of self-discovery, strategic networking, and financial planning (and guilt-free ambition!) in building a fulfilling career outside academia. We discuss the importance of being proactive about your career development from the beginning, and how adapting with creativity can still offer a fulfilling career.

You can find Dr. Gertrude Nonterah and her work, including her book Navigating the P.I.V.O.T. on her website at https://theboldphd.com/.

Keywords

career development, international students, PhD, science communication, networking, financial planning, career pivot, US immigration, personal branding

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Gertrude Nortra

04:08 Navigating Career Pivots

06:47 The Reality of Academia

09:53 International Student Challenges

12:46 Finding Stability and Self-Discovery

15:48 The Birth of The Bold PhD

22:07 Navigating the Transition from Academia to Industry

25:10 The Power of Personal Branding

28:17 The Importance of Early Career Development

31:18 Embracing Vulnerability and Community Support

38:44 Advice for Future PhDs: Start Early and Value Money

Lucky to Be Here is hosted by Dr. Analía Gómez Vidal, C.P.C. and produced by AGV Services LLC.

Join our Patreon https://www.patreon.com/LuckyToBeHere for free to receive our episodes in your inbox with career development reflections and resources and to connect in between episodes. Subscribers also get access to behind-the-scenes updates and live chats with Analía.

Sponsored by Creative Colony Spaces.