From Beijing to Public Service in Australia: A CRCC Asia Alumni Success Story
Aidan Mong’s Journey of Growth and Cultural Exchange
Aidan Mong, currently a Program Support Officer at Services Australia in Perth, Australia, attributes a significant part of his professional growth to his CRCC Asia internship in Beijing in 2014. His experience in China provided valuable exposure to international business practices, cultural adaptability, and professional networking. Since then, he has taken on leadership roles, contributed to the COVID-19 Pandemic Disaster Payment Package, and worked on the 45th Australian Referendum – ‘Voice to Parliament’ with the Australian Electoral Commission (AEC). The skills and insights gained from his internship helped him develop cross-cultural communication skills, expand his professional network, and build confidence in navigating global work environments. His story highlights the impact of international experiences on personal and career development, making CRCC Asia a transformative stepping stone for aspiring professionals.
Professional Milestones Since CRCC Asia
As a Program Support Officer for Services Australia, I help deliver on key Australian Government initiatives for Social Security. In short, I deliver essential assistance to everyday Australians in areas such as Welfare, Child Support, and Medicare. Since completing my CRCC Asia internship, I have taken up leadership positions, delivered the COVID-19 Pandemic Disaster Payment Package, and been successfully seconded to the Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) to deliver the 45th Australian Referendum – ‘Voice to Parliament’.
How CRCC Asia Shaped My Career Path
Experience is everything in a professional career, and my time with CRCC Asia was a special moment in my life when I had the opportunity to learn how business was conducted in China. Today, my role provides me with the opportunity to openly communicate with clients from a diverse range of backgrounds, and my time in China has helped to positively mold the basis of my interactions with them.
Valuable Skills Gained from the Internship
Communication and Cultural Sensitivity were two skills that I took from my internship in China. Both are key to fostering positive working relationships, whether that be with colleagues or clients.
Building a Professional Network
Yes! My internship opened the door for me to meet graduates on similar pathways and seasoned professionals in my industry. This has formed what my professional network is today! While I was not offered employment by my host company, I was given something far greater advice! With over 40 years of experience, my director offered his time and advice, which influenced my decision to pursue a career in public service.
Unforgettable CRCC Asia Memories
Attending Chinese New Year in Beijing with 20 interns across five different countries was one of the best experiences of my life! If I had to pick one of the best moments, it would be watching fireworks from the top floor of our Beijing apartment complex—quite a sight!
Confidence in a Global Working Environment
Having no experience in a cross-cultural working environment, my internship pushed me to adapt and learn. For example, when dealing with clients in China, I found business to be conducted in less formal environments, such as at a restaurant rather than an office. Upon returning to my working environment, I take into consideration cultural aspects and what would make the client feel most at ease. Having been through this previously, I found that I had more confidence in what I was looking for and how to navigate those environments.
Why Recommend CRCC Asia?
CRCC Asia is one of the few programs that provide a safe and enjoyable internship experience abroad. I found the program coordinators to be extremely knowledgeable and assisted with my transition every step of the way. The program has been thought out (from the view of someone entering it), so you can have peace of mind as soon as you land!
How CRCC Asia Contributed to My Personal and Professional Development
As an individual, I was able to grow immensely in terms of handling situations independently, navigating a foreign land, and communicating in another language. I built lifelong friendships with individuals across five different countries, and we still share this bond today! On a professional level, I developed my skill set in managing cultural sensitivity and open communication.
Words of Encouragement for Future Interns
Take that leap of faith, and you will be rewarded in your career! It is never easy to step outside of your comfort zone and travel to another country, but if my testimony is anything to go by, it was well worth it! In a society where employment is increasingly competitive, I would say think ahead about how you want the foundation of your career to look.