would a semicolon be appropriate?

I’m really struggling with semicolons and I know I need an independent clause after the semicolon but I feel like that makes the whole sentences flow a bit sharp?

would this be correct:
"My prior knowledge of this sector was limited; therefore, I was surprised to learn about the different strategies business used to outcompete different firms"

I know I need to get rid of therefore to make it independent but I feel like the vibe of the sentence would change?

please help and thank you!