Nguyen Minh Thu
Master of IT in Business (Digital Transformation)
August 2023 Intake
Having obtained a bachelor’s degree in marketing management, I worked in a marketing agency for 2 years. Subsequently, I took on a business analyst role in a software development company. I then transitioned to a software development company where I took on a Business Analyst role. This career shift exposed me to the IT field and ignited my interest for the industry.
Coming from a business background, I recognized a significant gap in my technical knowledge. The Master of IT in Business (MITB) programme offered the perfect bridge between my business experience and the technical skills I aspired to develop. Thus, I decided to enroll in the MITB programme in August 2023, specializing in Digital Transformation.
The cornerstone of the Digital Transformation track is the Digital Transformation Strategy, an SMU-X Module that epitomizes the programme’s practical approach. This module provided a unique opportunity for us to work with real companies facing genuine business challenges. My class collaborated with Hai Sia, a seafood company in Singapore seeking to digitally transform its operations.
To gain a comprehensive understanding of Hai Sia’s operating processes, we visited the Jurong Fishery, immersing ourselves in the day-to-day operations of the seafood industry. Armed with firsthand knowledge, we developed and pitched our digital transformation strategy to the company and won first place. This experience was truly invaluable, allowing me to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios and understand the practical implications of digital transformation.
[Our team celebrating the first place with Hai Sia team and our professors]
The MITB curriculum is meticulously designed to align with current market demands and offers a comprehensive understanding of digital transformation across organisations. We explored various aspects crucial to successful digitization initiatives such as business context and strategy, development of digital transformation strategies, implementation of technology solutions, change management, achieving business goals through digital means.
Professors in SMU are very approachable. They are always willing to offer consultations, provide insights on group projects, and encourage us to learn and explore beyond the classroom. Their guidance and inspiration laid a strong foundation for continued growth even after graduation.
[Our last lecture of the (digital) Product Management module]
As part of the Master’s programme, I had the opportunity to undertake a 6-month internship at Shopee and secure a position with its Regional Marketing Solutions team. This experience provided the perfect platform to apply the knowledge and skills gained from the programme in a dynamic business environment.
[My team and I on the last day of my internship at Shopee]
In retrospect, while the MITB journey is demanding, the rewards in terms of knowledge, skills and career opportunities are well worth the effort. It has been an empowering experience that has significantly shaped my professional trajectory in the digital age.
Keen to find out more about her MITB experience? You can send Minh Thu a message and chat with her at https://smu.sg/mitbambassadors.
