Facing the unknown: navigating ambitions and fears at the start of a career

Introduce yourself!

My name is Jada Strider and I study Political Science and International Relations at the University of California - Riverside. I am currently in my last year of university and will be graduating in the spring. 

Right now I am experiencing the opportunity of a lifetime - studying abroad in London while interning for Voco. It’s been an incredible journey full of growth, bakeries, and of course the occasional cup of tea!

While I'm not studying, you’ll probably find me exploring London’s hidden gems, getting lost in a romance novel, or taking pictures of new places - my camera is basically my travel buddy at this point. And of course, I love music! My playlists are a mix of Taylor Swift (a true Swiftie here), and the occasional throwback hit to lift my mood. 

Where do you see yourself in five years?

I have big dreams! Fast-forward five years, I see myself being near the finish line of law school. My ultimate goal is to build a career in corporate law. Whether I'm in a courtroom or negotiating deals, I want to make a meaningful impact in the legal field. 

I also aspire to live in a big city such as New York, representing a global company. 

How is your education setting you up for your career?

My education has been a journey, and studying in London has been the highlight. Living in the city has pushed me out of my comfort zone in the best way possible. These experiences have only prepared me for a career in corporate law, but they have shaped me into someone who’s ready to take on new experiences, one opportunity at a time. London has taught me to appreciate every step of my journey. 

What do you expect out of an employer?

From an employer, I value support, opportunity, and an alignment with my values. I want to work for a company that prioritises its employees, values professional growth, and has ethics. Being a part of a team that values collaboration is also really important to me.

What worries you about your future in the workforce?

Let’s be real - I would be lying if I said the workforce is not intimidating. From a student perspective, it feels like I'm on a never-ending wheel of qualifications. A degree? Check. Internships? Check. Study abroad? Check. But even with all of that, it doesn’t feel like it's enough. It’s never about having one stand out qualification, potential employers  want the whole package. That pressure can get overwhelming, but I am learning to see it as a challenge rather than a roadblock. 

‍What are you most excited about?

Despite these challenges, I am excited to start my next journey interning in Washington, DC. Getting accepted to this internship program feels like a huge step going forward, and I cannot wait to gain new experiences, connect with new people, and see where this opportunity takes me.

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Voco has partnered with with Accent Global to provide a 12-week internship for Jada to gain experience within a start-up environment as part of her study abroad programme.

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