Melanie Chan

Course: Bachelor of Arts and Social Sciences, 2023
Nationality: Malaysian
Current role: Corporate Intelligence Analyst, S-RM

Please tell us about your role in your current organisation.

I’m currently working as a Due Diligence Analyst at a London head-quartered cybersecurity and corporate intelligence firm, S-RM. My role entails conducting in-depth online research on subjects and their wealth generation, critically analysing and assessing such information, and ultimately presenting these findings and assessments through written reports!

Why did you choose to pursue a Bachelor of Arts and Social Sciences?

I double-majored in Global Studies and Communications, along with a minor in Applied Economics. To be very frank, I chose these areas of study purely based on interest after completing my A-Levels! Personally, I’ve always had two potential career paths in mind – one towards the more creative field of writing and advertising and another that yearns to delve into global politics and macroeconomics. Monash was one of the few universities that offered the flexibility and autonomy of choosing a combination of such areas of specialisation, which I felt aligned well with my preference.

What type of opportunities did you participate in at Monash?

During Semester two of 2022, I participated in the Global Intercampus Programme, spending 6 months enrolled in both Monash Caulfield and Clayton campuses in Melbourne, Australia. Throughout my stay there, I was also an active member of the Overseas Christian Fellowship club, often performing as part of the worship team during our weekly meetings or events. At Monash Malaysia itself, I was also cast to be part of the filming team for Monash’s 25th Anniversary corporate video production, which was a fun (albeit tiring) experience.

Did you go for any internships or work placements? If so, where and did the experience help you in terms of career preparation?

For AMU3744 “Workplace Learning Internship,” I completed a three-month internship at a renowned think tank here in the country, namely the Institute for Democracy and Economic Affairs (IDEAS) Malaysia. The position I held was a “Research Intern” under the Economics and Business Unit, where I had the opportunity to work on numerous projects, assisting expert researchers in conducting research, composing media statements and concept notes, or drafting project proposals to seek funding.

Interestingly, this experience was, in fact, instrumental in preparing me for my first full-time job, as I was eventually employed as a full-time Research Executive at IDEAS Malaysia upon completing my last semester at Monash! The hands-on experience during my internship piqued my interest and passion for conducting evidence-based research, which aptly prepared me for my eventual full-time role.

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

Throughout my 3-year student life at Monash, which was (unfortunately) partially affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, I’d say my most enjoyable moments would have to be attributed to my time as an exchange student abroad! As a local student who has never ventured beyond the Malaysian shores on my own, this brief experience provided me with so much personal growth that I never thought was possible. I met people from all walks of life, learned the true meaning of discipline and independence (along with its downsides), and bonded with an international student community that welcomed me with open arms.

What is your biggest career goal, or what difference would you like to make?

To be completely honest, I wouldn’t say that I have my “ultimate career goal” figured out just yet, and that’s perfectly fine to me! As of now, I’d like to find my area of specialisation that I simultaneously enjoy and excel at. As a relatively ‘fresh’ graduate, my short-term goal is to learn and grow continuously and eventually progress to helm a leadership position (while being an empathetic team member to those around me!).