Chong Ming Sheng

Name: Chong Ming Sheng
Nationality: Malaysia
Current Role: Transformation Excellence Analyst at Accenture

Why did you choose to study [your degree/area of study]?

Originally coming from a pure science background, my intention was to pursue a health-science related degree. However, the onset of the pandemic underscored the critical role and pervasive influence of Information Technology across diverse domains. This realisation prompted me to explore fields such as Computer Science and Data Science, given my penchant for problem-solving, logical thinking, and analytical skills.

I chose to major in Data Science because it offers versatility in career prospects, spanning industries such as bioinformatics, finance, and scientific research, which further sparked my interest in pursuing this field. As someone inclined towards numerical analysis, I find joy in deciphering patterns and trends within datasets to derive meaningful insights. I am fascinated by the practical applications of big data technology in enhancing global convenience and efficiency. Moreover, I am driven by the ability of Data Science to help make important decisions by translating complex raw data into simple charts, figures, and diagrams.

Why did you choose to study at Monash, and has it met your expectations so far?

I chose Monash University for its esteemed reputation and global recognition, ranked 42nd among the world's top universities. This positioned me to access cutting-edge information and resources crucial for my academic and professional growth. Expecting to forge valuable connections with experienced lecturers, professors, and industry giants, I aimed to bolster my academic journey and career prospects.

Monash has surpassed my expectations. The curriculum remains meticulously updated to align with industrial standards, ensuring students are well-prepared for the dynamic job market. Moreover, Monash is responsive to student feedback, continually refining course content for optimal learning experiences. The faculty's dedication is evident through their willingness to schedule additional consultation sessions and provide invaluable career or further study advice. I have also benefited from opportunities to attend diverse career fairs and engage with industry-leading companies. Monash University has truly delivered on its promise of providing a holistic and enriching educational experience, exceeding my expectations at every turn.

While at Monash, what type of opportunities did you participate in? (E.g. student exchange, clubs and societies, field trips, conferences, competitions, etc.)

During my time at Monash University, I actively engaged in various opportunities to enrich my student experience and contribute to the university community:

  1. As a Monash Student Ambassador, I played a crucial role in providing general information and assistance to prospective students and the parents, offering insights into the course structure and admission process. I also shared my genuine student experience to provide them with valuable information from a student's perspective. Additionally, I delivered talks and presentations to MUFY students, offering study advice and sharing personal university experiences to help them navigate their academic journey. Moreover, I volunteered during events such as Monash Open Day, Application Day, and Education & Further Studies Fair, assisting with crowd control and addressing general inquiries. These experiences not only allowed me to contribute to the Monash community but also helped me develop valuable communication and interpersonal skills.
  2. Appointed as the School of IT Student Representative, I was offered the golden opportunities participating in crucial accreditation panel interviews with prestigious organisations such as the Australian Computer Society (ACS) and the Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) for the Premier Digital Tech Institutions (PDTI) initiative, held during their visit to Monash University Malaysia. In this capacity, I played a vital role in representing student perspectives and providing insightful feedback to enhance the university's academic standards and improve students' learning experiences.
  3. As a Class Assistant for FIT2099, I had the honour collaborating closely with the unit coordinator and lecturer to provide technical assistance to students during tutorials and lab sessions via the in-class assistantship programme offered by the university.
  4. Volunteering for the Monash Cup in 2022 and 2023, I served as a basketball referee and technical official, contributing to the success of this annual sports league at Monash University Malaysia.
  5. In my role as Vice President of Robogals Monash Malaysia, I organised impactful STEM outreach events, including workshops at SMK(P) Bukit Kuda and Destiny Welfare Center. Additionally, I volunteered as a tutor during Python workshops, aiming to expose underprivileged children to fundamental engineering concepts.
  6. Lastly, as a Senior Executive of Operations of AIESEC in Sunway, I was actively involved in event management, including serving as the Organising Committee Vice President of Logistics for the 10th Year Anniversary Event and Youth Speak Forum. These experiences helped equip myself with event and project management skills, preparing me for future leadership roles.

These experiences have not only enriched my personal and professional development but also allowed me to contribute meaningfully to the university community.

While at Monash, did you go for any internships or work placements? If so, where? And did the experience help you in terms of career preparation/what have you learned?

I am honoured to have been shortlisted as one of the IBL candidates under the FIT3045 unit offered by Monash Faculty of IT. This opportunity led me to intern as a full-stack software developer at Wavelet Solutions Sdn. Bhd. (BigLedger). Choosing to take up this role allowed me to venture beyond my data science studies and explore the broader field of IT.

This internship has been invaluable in preparing me for the ever-evolving IT industry. Throughout the internship period, I equipped myself with various technical skills, ranging from frontend to backend development. It deepened my technical knowledge and sharpened my interpersonal skills, providing me with a glimpse into the real-world industry before graduation. I was involved in diverse tasks, including developing features, fixing bugs, and meeting clients' requirements, which enriched my learning experience.

Despite majoring in data science, I seized the IBL opportunity to acquire software development skills, enhancing my competitiveness in the job market. This hands-on experience has been instrumental in broadening my skill set and preparing me for future challenges in the IT industry.

What do you enjoy most about your student life at Monash? 

I thoroughly enjoy the diverse opportunities provided by Monash University, enriching my student life in numerous ways. For instance, participating in the in-class assistantship programme has been immensely rewarding. It allows me to give back to the university community by assisting unit lecturers, sharing my knowledge, and helping current students navigate their academic journey, thereby reducing potential errors they might make and alleviating their struggles. At the same time, these experiences are fulfilling and meaningful, offering a chance to earn some pocket money while honing my communication skills.

Serving as a Monash Student Ambassador further enhances my university experience, enabling me to engage with prospective students and parents during various events. It is a delightful experience to share my genuine university journey and address their inquiries, which helps sharpen my communication skills.

Additionally, Monash University Malaysia's vibrant campus atmosphere adds to the enjoyment. Events like the Monash Cup are grand and engaging, offering me the opportunities to volunteer and contribute to their success while also enjoying the spirited competitions. Overall, Monash provides me with a dynamic and enriching environment that fosters personal growth and meaningful experiences.

What is your biggest career goal, or what is the difference you’d like to make?

Since coming from a pure science background, I have been deeply curious about how data science can be harnessed and integrated into the medical field to improve patient care and outcomes. This curiosity drives me towards a career in bioinformatics, where I see opportunities to make a tangible impact. Leveraging my technical skills and scientific knowledge, I aim to address complex medical challenges and contribute meaningfully to society by advancing healthcare solutions.

On the other hand, I am intrigued by the intersection of business and finance with data analytics. I find it rewarding to employ my analytical skills and numerical acumen to transform raw data into actionable insights. With my capabilities, I believe I can effectively assist organisations in making informed, data-driven decisions, ultimately driving business growth and fostering innovation.