I first came to Japan on a work-study program through a partnership between my university in Michigan and Biwako Kisen. Known as the Japan Adventure Program, it was in the city of Otsu, Shiga Prefecture. Every year, 25 Michigan students lived and worked in the city of Otsu for nine months, learning about Japanese business and culture. It was a life-changing experience.

I always tell myself “smile, laugh and always be positive!” Our personal and professional lives may have ups and downs, but the power of thinking and acting in a positive way will bring you to whatever goal you wish to achieve.

I’m most proud of the challenge I took to live and work overseas. The achievement of starting my career and becoming a successful professional in a foreign country has reshaped my life and the continual learning process has kept me engaged.

I plan to continue my career in Japan for the foreseeable future. Given my professional experience working at a Japanese company, a joint venture Japanese and foreign company and now a foreign company, I believe I’ve developed a unique approach to bridging the gaps that arise when doing business here. My goal would be to continue to develop this capability and lead AccorHotels into becoming the top international hotel operator in Japan.

Learn the language. That doesn’t mean that you should achieve a complete native fluency level, but to achieve whatever level you really can. A few words can build lifetime relationships in both your personal and professional lives.