Working in the Information Technology private sector for nearly five years taught me there was more to life than material gain. Although I enjoyed figuring out technical logistics for projects within various transnational corporations, I felt alienated by the ultimate output: profit. Influenced by a spirit of service, I started to seek a change. As it turned out, the United Nations embodied the perfect career opportunity for me.

I began my United Nations journey as a Computer Systems Assistant with the Environment and Natural Resources Development Division of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) in Bangkok. Here, I became involved projects that allowed me to use the right side of my brain and be increasingly creative. I was involved with the development of websites such as www.greengrowth.org. This site was designed for ESCAP and focused on environmentally sustainable economic growth in Asia and the Pacific.

I found this to be an extremely fulfilling project. I was able to both explore my creativity as well as focus on business practices that were not geared solely for profit and cost. Rather, the goal was on making this world a better place. I was deeply satisfied.

In March 2005, I became a part of a team in charge of organizing a global conference called the Ministerial Conference on Environment and Development in Asia and the Pacific. My role was to both develop and design the website for this meeting, and deliver summaries, reports, documents, and information through that site. It proved to be a huge success, and now acts as the official website for this particular conference. My career constantly shows me that there are amazing opportunities within the Organization.

I would advise anyone who is thinking of working for the United Nations to keep in mind that you will definitely face challenges. If you can turn challenges into opportunities to prove your worth and demonstrate your capabilities, you will have a greater chance at success.