ABOUT GILDA GALDO: “Education has always been a priority for myself and my family. I am grateful to be in the position where I am able to share my experience. I truly hope to inspire you to reach your goals.
My parents wanted me to become a doctor so I enrolled in a degree program to prepare me for the rigors of the field . . . but, I dropped out, and enrolled in Economics. I graduated with a Baccalaureate degree in English Literature and Sociology. I then pursued a graduate degree in Economics and received a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Global Management.
In the Philippines, I worked as an Economic Researcher for the food industry. This was at the height of the military regime when there was government control and monopoly until democracy was restored.
Leaving my country, I migrated to Japan in 1990, and remained there until 2000. While in Japan, I taught English at the community center in exchange to learn Japanese. Since the role of women in Japan was limited to taking care of children and the family, it was a struggle to find something worthwhile. I volunteered in a local school and community. There I gained exposure to the culture while seeking my place as a foreigner or non-Japanese resident.
I became a writer for a Filipino publication in Japan. This position helped me immerse myself into the Japanese culture, language, business, entertainment, and complexities of my newly-adopted home.
Then, I worked at the University of Maryland International Business and Management Institute which offers management training to Japanese managers bound for overseas assignment. Most of the clients were from Sumitomo Corporation Group (a global trading company), NEC Corporation (a technology and electronics company) and Bridgestone Corporation (a multinational auto and truck parts manufacturer).
I came to America in 2000 . . . and this was an enormous change for me. I had to overcome several challenges including immigration issues, education, work experience, and the demands of single motherhood.
My experiences in Japan — especially learning another language as an adult — were very helpful. Because I had much experience trying to find a place in Japanese society, I am now able to truly empathize with women like myself and help them with their struggles.
Thus, teaching as a profession is very dear to me. I am currently a college instructor at Palm Beach State College, and grateful for the opportunity to inspire young adults and instill the values needed to succeed beyond the walls of the institution.
As a volunteer or liaison for immigrants, I fully understand the need to get the right resources and support. I can offer one-on-one consultations, and trained in Helpline and Lifeline in Tokyo and also Birthline’s helpline. I offer language lessons to small groups either at a classroom setting or virtually, résumé building and job skills.
With my background and experience, my goal at www.AskGilda.net is to work to help immigrants adapt to a new culture.”
Gilda Galdo – AskGilda.net
Telephone: 561-806-3329 / Email: gilda.galdo2@gmail.com