We love to learn from our alumni and this Global Alumni Engagement blog features Penn State’s remarkable global alumni on a weekly basis. This week we interview Amany Mansor ’19 for our weekly Global Alumni Spotlight column.
Amany Mansor was born and raised in Selangor, Malaysia. She flew to the States in August 2015. Amany completed her degree in Finance with a Minor in Applied Economics. She received the 2019 Outstanding Student Award by Financial Executives International (FEI), Central Pennsylvania. Currently, she is working at American Express in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. She enjoys traveling, doing arts, and reading books during her free time.
What made Penn State stand out as the place you wanted to pursue your graduate degree?
I started my studies in the United States at Northampton Community College in 2015. After completing my Associate Degree in Business Administration, I did some research for transferring my credits, and Penn State University was the ideal option for me. Besides, Penn State is very prominent among Malaysians.
What is your current job? What has Penn State’s experience (education and student leadership) supported your capabilities toward your current career?
Currently, I am working at American Express Malaysia as a Relationship Manager. I was so grateful that I managed to secure a job a month after I came back to Malaysia. Penn State has taught me in many ways to grow and be the person I am today. When I was a student, I worked at the Office of Student Life as a Global Ambassador Student Coordinator and New Student Orientation Leader. I have learned to lead, manage, delegate, teamwork and communicate, which are very crucial skills in the corporate world. After two years working, I am a Team Captain (consisting of 12 members) and a mentor for an apprentice.
Tell us about a couple of Penn State moments that carry with you now.
“You need to get comfortable with being uncomfortable,” a phrase that I still remember until now. This phrase was taught to me when I attended the Global Engagement and Leadership Experience (GELE) Conference. It was a growing experience as I could meet and connect with students from other campuses. Besides, I really missed my experience when I volunteered in Puerto Rico for Hurricane Maria Relief. I learned about the culture, the food, and the people of Puerto Rico.
What’s one thing that Penn State alumni can do to support today’s students?
Alumni relations play a vital role in every institution. One thing that Penn State alumni can do is to volunteer as a mentor for the students today. Alumni can share their wealth of experience and skills. They can also guide students on the right path for completing their studies.
Tell us a bit of your current life, such as your family, hobbies and/or community engagement.
Despite the challenges and difficulties we have to go through, I have discovered a new hobby – diving. Being underwater is the purest form of pleasure. I found tranquility and freedom. Hence, I decided to get a diving license. I also volunteered with Charisma Movement, a youth-led organization, as Sponsorship and Fundraising Director for 2020/2021.
What skills or traits should our international students develop to help them succeed in our global job market?
It is always great to have a good CGPA, but they will look more than that in our global job market. Join activities outside the classroom, lead a project or event, create a network, participate in campus events, and many more! My point is it is important to gain, develop, and learn skills and traits that are fundamental in the outside world.
Do you plan to visit Penn State after the pandemic is over? If so, what would you like to do after you arrive on campus?
Yes, of course! When I revisit Penn State, I will definitely bring my family together. I’d like to show them how my student life was. I also want to meet my friends, instructors, and everyone I miss dearly. Last but not least, to eat Penn State Berkey Creamery Ice Cream! It’s the best ice cream ever! My favorite flavors are Mint Nittany and Alumni Swirl.
What is your advice for our students to become a global-minded citizen?
Take the opportunity to become a global-minded citizen while you’re studying abroad! It is okay to hang out with your community but exploring and learning about other cultures, religions, views, and countries will amaze you how similar we are despite our differences! Start building personal and professional connections that will last your lifetime. I have never regretted becoming a Global Ambassador at Penn State Harrisburg. It is such lifelong learning!