Eileen Tay, a Master of Science in Accounting (Data & Analytics) (MSA) student from the AY2020 cohort, has over ten years of experience in Corporate and International Tax and currently works as a Senior Manager at the Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore (IRAS). Apart from the International Tax work at IRAS, she also enjoys photography and reading during her free time. Eileen also possesses a double degree in Accountancy and Business Management from the Singapore Management University.
What were you doing prior to the SMU MSA?
I was working in the Corporate Tax Division in IRAS, overseeing tax assessments of small corporations and leading in various initiatives relating to tax policy and the administration of taxes for small companies. At work, I saw the increased emphasis on using data analytics and applied for the MSA as it was a programme focused on applying data technology into the accounting and finance sectors to solve business problems.
Why did you choose SMU?
As an alumnus of SMU, I strongly believe in the SMU teaching pedagogy of an interactive and participative learning environment and Project-based learning. It has enabled me to learn exponentially and apply concepts learnt in class through projects. I also remembered how as undergraduates we had to approach companies to do projects with them; that further reinforced how the curriculum in SMU is applicable and relevant to the real world and how it forces us to develop the soft skills required in our working life.
What are some of your key achievements during the MSA journey?
Having limited exposure to data analytics or programming before the programme, the programme has enabled me to pick up the essentials in programming quickly and through project work, we are able to apply what we learn to real-world issues. That said, I still have a long way to go in coding. As my coursemates are from diverse backgrounds, it has been really interesting working with them on projects. Through project work, we can contribute our strengths and improve on our weaknesses. Friendships are also forged through the many hours spent on project work. As many of my coursemates have limited working experience, it is also fulfilling to share with them my experience and give them advice as they look for their internships and jobs.
Being part of the class committee has enabled me to contribute to the class morale and bonding of the class through the organisation of activities and events. This is especially so in this new normal when classes are being held online for a period of time.
Share something about the SMU MSA that others might not know.
IT’S HARD WORK. It is a very rigorous programme and for someone without coding background, the course can be very challenging at first. What helps is that the school will also share pre-programme materials to kickstart the learning journey.
What are your career aspirations and goals and how has the MSA programme helped you?
My career has been focused on tax roles that are more technical. The MSA programme has broadened my perspectives on the possibilities with data analytics in my work and my capabilities in contributing to my organisation. With a strong foundation in data analytics from the MSA, I can better appreciate the considerations in using data analytics and consider the use of data analytics to improve work processes.
What advice would you give to other MSA aspirants?
We live in an age where change (in addition to death and taxes) is certain. Have a growth mindset, you are never too old to learn. Be open and make friends with your classmates, everyone’s journey is unique and can contribute in different ways. For those with zero coding background, it might be good to get some hands-on before class starts as the learning curve can be quite steep.
