Ngo Thi My Duyen
Master of IT in Business (Financial Technology & Analytics)
January 2024 Intake
My career journey with Citibank has been a dynamic exploration of diverse roles, geographies, and emerging technologies. Starting with in-country operations, I've traversed a path that spans global workforce management, wealth digital technology, and currently, institutional emerging commerce solutions. My experiences have taken me across Asia, from Vietnam and the Philippines to India and Singapore, each location adding a unique layer to my understanding of the global financial landscape. The increasing responsibility and exposure I've gained have reinforced the importance of continuous learning. Each new role has been a learning journey, broadening my horizons and deepening my expertise.
Recognizing the accelerating pace of innovation in finance, I chose to pursue the SMU MITB programme. The curriculum's focus on innovation resonated deeply with my professional trajectory. In my current role, I focus on identifying financial solutions from the FinTech sector to enhance product offerings for my clients. The SMU MITB programme has proven particularly relevant in this regard. The curriculum provides a comprehensive understanding of the FinTech ecosystem, equipping me with the technical knowledge necessary to discover and evaluate innovative solutions.
A particularly memorable experience in the programme was a group project where we developed a FinTech startup. We delved into the application of quantum computing in stock trading, culminating in a comprehensive business proposal. This experience was both challenging and rewarding, fostering teamwork, deepening our financial and technical knowledge, and solidifying the power of collaborative learning.
I appreciate the open discussion format of the classes, where professors encourage diverse perspectives and classroom debates often lead to richer insights than a traditional lecture could provide. One professor who left a lasting impression was Dr Patrick Thng. His classes were not only rigorous and intellectually stimulating but also lively and engaging – thanks to his signature sense of humour that left us in stitches even in the most demanding sessions.
To prospective students considering the SMU MITB programme, I highly recommend embracing every opportunity it offers. The academic rigor will be challenging but you’ll also find numerous opportunities to engage with a vibrant community through events, activities and shared experiences that go well beyond the classroom. For me, it’s been more than just a master’s degree—it’s a journey of transformation, one that has deepened my expertise, expanded my network, and enriched my perspective on how to build future-ready financial solutions.
The future of finance will be shaped by those who can bridge technology and strategy, and I believe MITB graduates are uniquely positioned to lead that change.
