Maxine Juan

If I were to choose a single word to describe myself, it would undoubtedly be "ARTICULATE." In the Filipino language, and as my friends and family playfully put it, this can be expressed as "ARTEKULIT,” a fusion of "ARTE," signifying a flair for the dramatic, and "KULIT," denoting persistence.

The nickname "Arte" stems from my experience as a theatre enthusiast, where I've honed the skill of expressing my thoughts and ideas in the most imaginative and unconventional ways. While pursuing my undergraduate degree, I successfully balanced my academic commitments with a two-year stint at an education technology startup. As a student community moderator, I focused on engaging students and fostering a safe, welcoming environment online. Later, as the community manager, I oversaw project rollouts, schedules, meetings, policies, and worked closely with department heads and team leads to implement new procedures.

After concluding my role at the startup, I joined a student exchange program to study International Business in Malaysia. Here, I applied my academic foundation in Southeast Asian Studies. This dual academic background broadened my global perspective, enabling me to approach businesses from a holistic viewpoint, taking into account the diverse cultural influences and varying perspectives they encompass. 

My meticulousness and unwavering attention to detail drive my persistence and diligence in any task. My finance studies sharpened my analytical mindset, helping me identify potential risks crafting effective mitigation strategies. I always strive to elevate projects to their highest potential, earning me the nickname "Kulit" for my dedication to excellence.

When I'm not immersed in numerical analysis and calculations, I harness my creative and storytelling abilities to effectively communicate ideas and data. I can blend analytical prowess with creativity to tackle intricate challenges, pinpoint potential opportunities, and arrive at well-informed decisions in a dynamic and competitive milieu.

When I claim to be ARTICULATE, I'm essentially proclaiming myself as ARTEKULIT—a fusion of artistic flair and steadfast determination that shapes my identity.

During my undergraduate studies, I balanced both my academics and a two-year role at an education technology startup. Within the startup, I served in various capacities, including teaching assistant, teacher, tech support, and ultimately, student community moderator and manager. As a moderator, I focused on enhancing student engagement and safety, and as a manager, I oversaw projects, schedules, meetings, policies, collaborating with department heads and team leaders to implement new procedures.

After my startup role, I studied International Business in Malaysia as part of a student exchange program. Combining my Southeast Asian Studies background with this experience broadened my global perspective, enabling me to approach businesses holistically, considering diverse cultural influences and perspectives

I worked as a research intern for the Department of Trade and Industry, supervised by Assistant Secretary Atty. Allan B. Gepty in the Industry Development and Trade Policy Group, for a duration of 2 months. During this period, I conducted research on the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (RCEP), the world's largest free trade agreement, as it was undergoing ratification in the Philippines. I also drafted press releases for the Department of Trade and Industry, which were published on various news sites. Additionally, I attended senate hearings, information sessions, and meetings, where I took notes on critical information.

My academic journey has been a fusion of Southeast Asian Studies and Corporate Finance, offering me a unique skill set that combines cultural acumen and financial expertise for navigating the diverse markets of the region. My Southeast Asian Studies degree provided invaluable insights into regional economic trends, trade agreements, and the multifaceted landscape of opportunities and challenges. Equally important, it honed my ability to comprehend and adapt to cultural nuances, enhancing my effectiveness in building relationships and conducting negotiations across various countries.

Complementing this, my minor in Corporate Finance equipped me with the financial acumen required to thrive in Southeast Asia's dynamic business environment. I gained a deep understanding of emerging markets, enabling me to identify investment opportunities, assess risks, and make well-informed financial decisions within this vibrant region.

To further enrich my academic portfolio, I embarked on a student exchange program in Malaysia, delving into the realm of International Business. This experience expanded my horizons by encompassing courses in international logistics, marketing, global business strategy, and even language acquisition (Bahasa Melayu). The amalgamation of these academic pursuits has fortified my expertise and prepared me to excel in the intricate intersection of Southeast Asian business and finance.