From Bulgaria to San Diego: the path to a global leadership role
· Petya Dolapchieva
Success across the ocean: discipline, adaptation, and strategy!
Introduce yourself in a few sentences…
My name is Petya Dolapchieva and I am Vice President, Global Client Success & Strategy at INFUSE. In my daily work, I lead global teams, am responsible for the successful servicing of clients from various industries, and develop strategies for growth and process optimization.
Which country and city do you currently live in and how did you end up there?
I have been living in San Diego, California, for nine years. I moved here after my husband (also Bulgarian - a financier who grew up in the USA) graduated from the University of San Diego. We decided to settle here permanently because of the good environment and opportunities for development.
What were the biggest challenges at the beginning?
The first months were difficult, mainly because it took me about six months to find a job. I had to completely change my professional path - in Bulgaria, I worked in foreign government and non-government organizations, while in San Diego, opportunities in this field were very limited.
How did you overcome the language barrier?
I had good English even before my move, which significantly eased my adaptation. Still, it took time to get used to the local slang, different accents, and professional terminology in the new industry.
What resources or networks helped you adapt?
I was lucky to find a strong Bulgarian community in San Diego - highly educated people with many contacts. I started helping a startup created by a Bulgarian friend, who subsequently directed me to the field of Client Success - a rapidly growing field at that time. Thanks to this recommendation, I started working at a company focused on digital marketing built through AI technologies.
Main differences between the work culture in the USA and Bulgaria
The differences are significant. American work culture is much more dynamic and goal-oriented. The focus is on achievements, measurable results, and career development. Vacations are shorter, and people often work even when they are on leave, driven by the fear of missing something important.
On the other hand, the opportunities for growth and entrepreneurship are enormous - success is achievable with hard work and perseverance.
Values and practices that impressed you
Working with people who set ambitious goals and pursue results is extremely motivating. The corporate environment is dynamic, and the opportunities for development are significantly greater compared to Bulgaria.
Situations where cultural differences have challenged you
It was definitely hard for me to get used to the few vacation days and the short maternity leave - usually three months and partially paid, depending on the state and employer. Overall, in the USA, there is a feeling that longer absences can harm career development. Fortunately, gradual improvements are being observed, especially in California.
Differences in the job search process
Overall, the processes are similar - recommendations are crucial and significantly increase hiring chances. Interviews and tasks are also similar in structure. I believe Bulgaria has caught up a lot in this regard.
Did you need to undergo additional qualifications?
No - my education and experience from Bulgaria were completely sufficient. Later, after I was promoted to a director position, I took leadership courses to enhance my management skills.
Have you faced prejudice because of your background?
Very rarely, especially in a professional context - probably because I spoke excellent English even before I moved. The companies I have worked for value personal qualities and experience, not background. Many of my colleagues are also immigrants.
What would you advise people who want to take a similar step?
To carefully weigh the pros and cons and decide what is best for them at the moment. To be prepared that the beginning will not be easy, but with perseverance and clear goals, they can achieve their dreams.
If you could go back, would you choose the same path?
Yes - my husband and I made the right decision. We are happy to live in a city with a high quality of life and can provide a peaceful environment for our daughter, as well as access to good education, healthcare, and professional opportunities.
What do you miss the most from your homeland?
On a personal level - family and friends. We see each other once a year and I wish we were closer.
Professionally, I wouldn't say that I miss anything significant.
Have you considered returning?
Bulgaria is always an option - there is a certain magnetic pull. But at the moment, we plan to stay here.
What do you think about money and its influence?
Money for me is a tool - a means that provides freedom and security, but it is not determinative for happiness. It is important for a person to have good financial discipline, to plan, and to invest wisely. Over the years, I have learned to be responsible and balanced in my decisions.
In Bulgaria, there are often prejudices that Bulgarians abroad easily earn high incomes. This is not the case - everything is related to a lot of hard work, long hours, and perseverance.