Featuring Austin Lai, Part-Time Student, Master of Science in Accounting (Data & Analytics) (MSA), 2018 August Intake
A strong multi-tasker who aspires to lead the change within the finance industry, Austin Lai is currently working as a Finance Analyst in First State Investments while studying the MSA programme (part-time) at the same time. With 10 years of professional working experience in various industries such as government service, investment banking and asset management, he is a recipient of the SkillsFuture Study Award by Singapore Accountancy Commission.
Beyond work, Austin is an avid marathon runner, swimmer and fitness enthusiast who visits the gym at least thrice a week.
Why did you choose to join the MSA programme and how will it help you achieve your aspirations?
In the data-driven world, accounting professionals need to be able to adapt to these technological disruptions. Accountants have a distinct advantage when implementing data analytics because we have ready access to financial data and a keen understanding of how these data can help our companies retain a strategic advantage over competitors in the modern business environment.
I hope to acquire skills in data analytics to enrich myself and meet the demands of the job market. The MSA programme would empower me to expand my portfolio and bridge the gap between finance and accounting functions and data & analytics. After attending the information session and speaking to the Programme Director, Dr. Wang Jiwei, I am confident that the MSA programme will equip me with the skill set to lead the change in the new business landscape.
How do you juggle between work, family and school?
Despite facing hefty financial obligations while supporting my retired parents, my recent marriage and my new home, I decided to invest in my future and pick up my studies again. I believe that the key to juggling work and studies is time management. I have set aside fixed time schedules for my classes, assignments, family and personal time. I am also very thankful that my spouse has been very encouraging and supportive of me in pursuing my postgraduate qualification.
How would you make a meaningful impact after your graduation?
With my newly acquired skills, I hope to bridge the gap between traditional accounting methods and new analytical models to help organisations progress in this digital era. I aim to build financial and data models that will help companies identify and explain current financial movements, predict future trends and recommend the best course of action for future business growth in a seamless way. I hope these models and predictions can add value to the business decision making within my organisation.
Last but not least, I also hope to encourage my future MSA schoolmates that despite the countless challenges and difficulties that we may face in life, with great determination and perseverance, we will be able to seek continuous improvement and achieve our dreams.
