I'm delighted to introduce Erica Hoeveler, an inspiring professional I had the pleasure of interviewing for Crossing Roots. Erica and I share a long history, dating back to our early careers when we both joined HSBC's Executive Trainee Program in 2008, in Brazil. Her journey from those early days to her current role as the Director of Digital Channels at HSBC in Mexico is nothing short of inspiring. Stay tuned for our interview, where she shares valuable insights on her incredible expat experience.
Expat Bio:
Born in: São Paulo, SP, Brasil
Total Years Living Abroad: 7 and a half
Cities & Countries: Berlin (Germany), Evanston (US), Mexico City (Mexico), Singapore (Singapore)
Current City: Mexico City, Mexico
Mother of: Daniel (2 and a half) Current Company/Title: HSBC, Director of Digital Channels
What drove you to become an expat?
I've always liked the idea of living abroad, possibly because my dad used to sell maps (had a small company that sold maps and globes to schools and universities). My first experience living abroad was as an exchange student living in Germany (2005-2006). Ten years later I decided to live abroad again and since 2017 I have not been living in Brazil.
Why did you choose to live in Mexico?
I was doing my MBA in the US (Kellogg School of Management) and received an offer to work at Citibank Mexico. I had never thought about living in Mexico before, but the offer was attractive, and my partner and I were open to giving it a try living in Mexico.
How do you think your experience abroad has helped you grow as a professional?
In so many ways!!
Living abroad is a challenge as there are many situations that take us out of our comfort zone - do not think is only glamour!!
You have to deal with people from different cultures who think and express differently from you. Mexicans, Americans, Europeans, Venezuelans, each one brings unique backgrounds that many times challenge the status quo.
How do you pass down your cultural traditions to your son?
I speak only in Portuguese with Daniel and the food at home is mostly Brazilian cuisine.
What has your experience of having a child in Mexico been like?
Having and raising a child is difficult, but doing so in a foreign country is much more complicated for several reasons - 1. we have no family to help so we depend on babysitters most of the time 2. Processes for documentation may be complicated as we do not understand and also work differently for foreigners 3. You're not familiar with how things work in daily life such as finding and getting school recommendations.
What were the main challenges you faced in your experience abroad?
I miss my best friends and driving, in addition to the challenges related to having a child.
What advice would you give someone considering to become an expat?
You must be willing to face a different world, respect, and enjoy other cultures. You may disagree/not like some cultural aspects of a country, but you need to respect them and adapt yourself.
I hope you've found this interview with Erica's interview inspiring, as she shared her remarkable journey of professional growth across various countries, while also embracing motherhood and its challenges in a foreign land.
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