The slow boat to China (May 21st)

've decided I want to relocate to Hong Kong.  Yeah, I know -- this sounds like another one of my crazy impulsive schemes.  But I can sincerely say that I've never been this hypnotically devoted to pursuing a goal, one that is possibly 2-5 years away (if ever).  Not only am I fascinated with economic development in the Pearl River Delta, but I'm dying for a new challenge and lifestyle with the temporary freedom afforded by being young and unmarried.  There are also secondary reasons for going, ones I'd rather keep unsaid.

I've dabbled with thoughts of relocating to Hong Kong for the past three years.  This is why I reclaimed Hong Kong right-of-abode last November and why I specifically sought out HSBC as an employer.  Originally, I had hoped I could convince them to transfer me to Hong Kong, but I've since discovered their U.S. operations are largely disassociated from its Asian operations, especially in the credit card division where I work.  The better path to Hong Kong will include picking up an MBA first.  Having the World’s Local Bank listed on my resume will come in handy, not only for getting into business school but for catching the attention of Hong Kong employers after graduation.

If I wanted to be reckless, I needn't go through all this time and trouble.  Since I already enjoy Hong Kong residency, I could relocate first and then frantically search for work later (which was my approach when moving to Las Vegas).  Many adventurous people have pulled this off successfully in Hong Kong according to GeoExpat, an online forum for Hong Kong and China expatriates.  But without an MBA and especially without decent Chinese skills, I will struggle for subsistance in the labor market.  Perhaps I would consider the reckless approach as a last-resort, especially if the midlife crisis strikes hard enough.

Unfortunately, if I attend business school before relocating, my plans may take 2-5 years to reach fruition, an unfathomable duration for an impatient person like myself.  And maybe I'll never make it to Hong Kong despite the noblest effort and that this is all just one of those warm and fuzzy things to dream about but never comes true.  But I've learned that, like everything in life, one will uncover a path as long as the will to find one is strong enough.  In the meantime, I will start studying Chinese and preparing for the GMAT for my long voyage ahead.  Maybe I could also email employers and headhunters in Hong Kong directly or find a sympathetic ear at HSBC Hong Kong.  How heavenly it would be landing a decent job there without two years of business school (even though I think I'll enjoy business school immensely).

In the meantime, if any of you have suggestions or leads, I'd love to hear them!