Soo Zhi Kai
Master of IT in Business (Financial Services Analytics)
Graduation Class of 2019
Country Regulatory Advisory & Project, Maybank Singapore Limited
Attending graduate school was the furthest thing on my mind upon completion of my undergraduate studies. However, after 3 years in the public sector, I felt the need to acquire the knowledge and skills to analyse and validate hypothesis with data. Studying through the various data-related courses across local institutions, I quickly set my mind on MITB as the course focuses not only on technical knowledge but also on application to satisfy business needs.
MITB is a demanding program but the support from instructors is splendid and they are willing to go the extra mile if you are willing to learn. Special shoutout to:
Prof Kam Tin Seong – His crazy, really crazy, assignments in Data Analytics Lab during my first semester came as a total shock. Though my course mates and I constantly whined over the assignments, we bonded well (through Prof Kam’s Tough-Love) and having to tackle the questions accelerated my analytics skills. The positive impact from Data Analytics Lab made me take up Visual Analytics, and it has served me well since entering the Financial Industry.
Prof Paul Robert Griffin – The classes covered lots of case studies and application of Blockchain and Smart contracts in Corporate Banking. With the Fourth Industrial Revolution gaining traction around the globe, the course puts the latest development into perspective with hands-on practice.
Mr Patrick Thng – Patrick has the knack of keeping students engaged throughout seminars and the strategy simulation allows instant application of the theories taught in class. The sharing of his work and life experience in Strategy & Organization adds spice to the development of soft skills required to navigate the corporate setting.
Apart from the teaching faculty, the Post-grad Career Services Advisors also play a key role in preparing you for your next career. There are many engagement sessions with industry speakers to learn about the nuances of different industries and I am sure you will be able to come across a role that is of appropriate fit. It was during one of the sessions where I met my current boss.
Juggling studies with a full-time job is never easy but looking back, my MITB journey has been nothing short of amazing. Not only has MITB imparted me with data analytics skillsets, it has also imbued in me the tenacity to learn and acquire new knowledge.
To prospective students: venture out of your comfort zone and take the leap of faith. Be receptive of positive and negative feedback, as well as fresh concepts and ideas — this will lead you in developing as a better team player and competent professional.
