Yap Jin Heng

Name: Yap Jin Heng
Nationality: Malaysia
Current Role: Project Manager, Monash UReview  at Monash University Malaysia

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

I had always known I was going into Computer Science. My friends and family have always highly regarded my aptitude for software, and the prospects of a career in IT are evident in today's world. I found it very cool to imagine myself building software for daily use. My expectations of Computer Science sure were overturned when I found out how theoretical the field was when I started my degree here at Monash, but I have grown to appreciate this theoretical aspect of the field along with its unlimited applications.

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

As a Subang Jaya resident, it would have been hard for me to remain unaware of Monash University. The global reach of the university has always appealed to me. I also liked how the campus was close to home. My experience here has been very positive. The high intensity of the units makes my student life very fulfilling and I always look forward to my next class to attend.

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

I have enjoyed plenty of experiences in Monash. I spent a year as Vice President of the Monash Animanga Guild, where I had great fun planning activities to promote an understanding of Japanese popular culture among our members. In each semester break, I have participated in student research programs where I got my chance to develop skills in new fields outside of my academic units. As a programmer, I have participated in various student projects and competitions such as hackathons and competitive programming competitions, which our School of IT often hosts. It has been a very fulfilling experience.

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?

None as of the time of writing, but I am applying for opportunities soon. The Industry-Based Learning (IBL) program, which the School of IT constantly promotes, looks like a great place to learn. Wish me luck!

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

The best part about my student life is definitely the people I meet here. The lecturers and tutors here make themselves open to conversation. Many of them are enthusiastic enough to teach us content beyond the scope of the unit if we ask for it. The student population here is very approachable. I love talking to my peers about anything and everything because the people here are so positive and sociable.

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

My constant goal in life is to make life easier for other people. This goal applies to my career as well, where I strive to make it easier for everyone I will be involved with, be it my co-workers, my clients, or the general public. I wish to apply my skills to solve problems for people, regardless of their technical or non-technical nature. I want my presence to make a positive change in everyone's lives.