Immigrants. Are. Awesome. We are adventurous, adaptable, ambitious, community-driven, and naturally entrepreneurial. As the Harvard Business Review wrote in one of their articles, the immigrant mindset is one to STRIVE for in order to advance your career.  This episode’s guest exhibits all of these qualities and more. In 2013, Alena met a stranger on a train in Moscow who introduced her to the idea of moving to Canada. Not long after that, she was packing her bags in search of a new challenge and has not looked back since. Together, we chat about Russia and its people, share some career and immigration tips for international students, and dish out a serious dose of that immigrant inspiration.   You don’t want to miss: Everything you need to know about Russia: From vodka and high heels to superstitions and architecture… Alena’s new start: Being introduced to Canada by a stranger on a Moscow train, following her gut, and making the big move in pursuit of a new challenge. 9 Years Later: How her “temporary adventure” turned into a successful Canadian marriage, family, and career. Some simple reminders to prepare for the cultural and emotional shocks of moving to a new country. Career and immigration tips for international students. The Immigrant Mindset: More than 40% of Fortune 500 companies are founded by immigrants or their children! A discussion about the various strengths exhibited by immigrants and why we should be inspired by each other. PLUS, a Russian’s experience with the smiling and pleasantries of Western culture: Why simply adding “please” to an email doesn’t necessarily make your message “polite” in Canada…   Links & Resources: Read the Harvard Business Review article: “Adopt an Immigrant Mindset to Advance Your Career” - Click here Follow Alena on Instagram: @alenasharma.ca or Tiktok: @alenasharma.ca Connect with Alena on LinkedIn: Alena Khabibullina Download my 50 free tips from newcomers to Canada: What they wish they knew before they moved! bit.ly/freetipscanada Follow me on Instagram: @TheNewcomerCollective For more about us and what we do, check out our website: TheNewcomerCollective.com