Melody Ang Xing Yuen
Course: Bachelor of Medical Bioscience, 2014, Master of International Business, 2016 and Doctor of Philosophy, 2020
Nationality: Malaysian
Current role: General Manager, Swiftcare Training
Please tell us about your undergraduate study experience.
I graduated with a degree in Medical Bioscience from the School of Science. Personally, I found it to be more theory and research-based, taught in a lecture style. The things I learned were also very broad and is not as in-depth.
What I enjoyed most about my time as an undergraduate was when I took up a summer research program. During that time, my supervisor, Dr Cheow Yuen Lin really developed my presentation skills, lab research skills, analytical skills and also writing skills.
This stint allowed me to apply what I learned during my degree program, as I tackled research for the first time. The only part which I found challenging was the weekly lab sessions and having to write the subsequent lab reports. However, I believe that it is the challenges, and learning how to deal with them gave me the necessary skills to tackle my Master’s program.
Why did you choose to pursue the Master of International Business (MIB)?
I wanted to pursue MIB as I realised that being a science student, business was very foreign to me. I didn’t understand business concepts and how the real world works. I was even struggling to understand the value of money. It was also a slow realisation for me that the working world is far more complicated, and to survive, it’s better to be equipped with some business knowledge. Thus, I began my MIB journey.
MIB has been mind-blowing for a Science student like me. The most valuable experience I had during my MIB is that I get to apply what I learned in class. I am actively leading Bible study groups and other teams which involves managing people coming from different backgrounds. The concept of International Business helped me to understand and manage people and myself way better. Having the opportunity to apply what I learned in the program immediately, is a really valuable experience as I get to challenge what I learn and what I do at the same time.
How did you feel about winning the best graduate award for MIB?
Honestly, I was very surprised and honoured to be given this award. I am very thankful to God for all His blessings. This award is an affirmation to me. I am hoping that this award will motivate me to go further and achieve more.
After MIB, you went for a PhD. Tell us more about that.
I majored in Organisational Behaviour, focusing on leadership styles and innovative behaviour. I chose to continue studying for a doctoral degree for my career which is in consultancy and teaching, and also for my personal advancement.