Job Responsibilities
I was working 5 days a week. I was responsible of carrying on
research and writing articles and policy briefs, that were
eventually published by the institute. My field of interest was
grand strategy (international politics, security and economics).
My focus was on Eastern Asia, especially on China, and on the US
role in region. This took roughly half the time. The balance was
dedicated to the Chinese business climate, with a focus on the
performances of Italian firms in the area. The fruits of this
research were used in the context of a network the institute was
part of along with major Italian companies working in China. It
was closer to an economic consultant job. I occasionally worked
also on some classes about China the Institute was offering. I
reported to a Senior research fellow, and I was in charge of an
intern.
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Job Requirements
Italian 4-year university degree (laurea) in Economics. The
final thesis (270 pages long) was about International Relations
(US-China relations). I graduated at Bocconi University, usually
considered the best Italian university - and one of the best
European universities - in Economics. I agree. The quality of
classes and professors was, on average, very high, and I got a
solid background in Economics, Statistics, Business and Law.
Workload was heavy, grading on average not too tight (even if
getting the top grade - 30/30 - was not common).
Anyway, usually to get a job as Research fellow at ISPI you are
required to hold a master degree.
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Uppers
The topics you study, for me extremely interesting. The opportunity to publish
the fruits of your research, which can distinguish your resume. High-level
contacts with foreign dignitaries, international relations best scholars, top
managers (even CEOs) of major Italian companies.
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Downers
The pay was low (which is common in Italy if you work in the
research field). Career was definitely not exciting (over time,
you can get a slightly higher wage, but you do not become a
Senior research fellow or the general secretary of the
instititute through an internal path).
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Lifestyle
Since you are not highly paid, you are not required long-hours. Dress code is
usually casual, unless you have to meet someone external to the institute (in
this case business suit). There are some very good institute events (like the
Christmas dinner or a summer party) that allow you to enjoy the marvelous
XVII-century palace where the institute is located.
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Compensation
Less than Euro 1,000 a month, for twelve months, without
benefits apart from the ones mandated by law.
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Advice to Jobseekers
This job is intended to be a starting point after graduation.
You should plan to stay there for a couple of years, no more. It
could be good if you intend to pursue an academic career, and
you're applicating for Phds in International Relation and
similar. The China office can also be good to gradually shift to
a more business oriented field. If you can attend an MBA and
then go to business, your experience at ISPI's China office will
provide you with some uncommon and nonetheless very useful
skills, knowledge, and contacts.
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