Sadhvekaa Raveedran
Master of IT in Business (Financial Technology & Analytics)
January 2025 Intake
Stepping out of my comfort zone was not just a decision—it was a turning point.
With a background in Finance and Investment and with a qualification as a Certified Management Accountant (CMA), my early career was firmly rooted in the finance domain. I spent close to three years at AB InBev as a Principal Analyst, focussing on Account to Report processes. While the experience gave me a strong foundation in financial operations, I began to realise that the future of the industry was increasingly shaped by technology.
That realisation led me to the SMU Master of IT in Business (MITB).
I had always intended to pursue a master’s degree, but timing mattered. After gaining industry experience, I knew clearly what I needed—to bridge the gap between business knowledge and technological capability. Singapore stood out as the ideal place to do this, given its dynamic financial ecosystem, and MITB offered exactly the balance I was looking for: a blend of technical skills and business application.
The programme has been a transformative experience. It pushed me to become more curious, more proactive, and more open to exploring new ideas. Beyond building technical skills in Python, SQL, and advanced Excel, MITB emphasised applying these tools to real-world scenarios. That shift—from learning concepts to using them in practice—made a significant difference in how I approach problems today.
This became especially clear during my internship at EY, where I am currently working in the risk and compliance domain. Concepts that I had studied in class, such as MAS AML regulations covered in the FinTech modules, became directly relevant to my day-to-day work. Having that foundation allowed me to step into the role with confidence and contribute meaningfully from the start.
Two modules, in particular, had a lasting impact on me. Spreadsheet Modelling strengthened my approach to problem-solving, helping me break down complex datasets into structured, actionable insights. RiskTech and RegTech, on the other hand, opened my eyes to how technology is reshaping risk management and compliance. It introduced me to an area of business that is often overlooked, yet critically important—especially in today’s regulatory environment.
Equally valuable has been the cohort experience. MITB brings together a diverse mix of individuals—fresh graduates, career switchers, and experienced professionals. Learning alongside peers with different perspectives made every discussion richer and more insightful. It is an environment where you not only grow academically, but also gain a deeper understanding of how others think, work, and approach challenges.
My internship at EY has further reinforced this learning. Working with high-profile clients in the risk and compliance space, I gained hands-on exposure to real advisory work while experiencing the pace and expectations of a Big Four environment. For me, as an international student, it has been an important stepping stone in preparing for the job market in Singapore.
Another highlight of my journey has been learning from faculty such as Dr Patrick Thng. His classes were consistently engaging, combining theory with real-world insights and encouraging active participation. His approach to teaching—grounded in practical application and exploration—has influenced how I think about problem-solving.
Looking ahead, I aim to pursue a full-time role in the financial services industry, with a particular interest in the financial crime space. It is an area where I see strong alignment between my background, my MITB training, and the evolving needs of the industry.
If I were to describe MITB in one sentence, it would be this: a high-energy journey that pushes you beyond your comfort zone, sharpens your thinking, and prepares you to stay ahead.
