Shankar Gopaldas
Course: Master of Business Information Systems, 2017
Nationality: Malaysian
Current role: Senior TMT Consultant, EY
Why did you choose to pursue the Master of Business Information Systems (MBIS)?
What motivated me the most to pursue the MBIS was predominantly the unique structure of the course. The blended learning of both business and IT components, which highlights how IT can be used to empower and drive better value in organisations today, was one of my core interests in furthering my knowledge after my undergraduate degree.
Why did you choose Monash?
My main reason for choosing Monash was the vast experience and research background the university has established in the field of IT over the years, as well as the diverse and highly experienced cohort of lecturers available within the course. Monash being ranked among the top 100 universities worldwide and having a globalised network of campuses for student exchange programs was another reason, as it provided a better value for money. Students are able to experience global opportunities while paying local prices (tuition fees), which is not something you can attain from other universities.
What did you like best about studying here?
The learning experience has been nothing short of amazing. From the lecturers who facilitated interactive and creative learning through various informal in-class discussions and presentations to the diverse international student community with varying knowledge backgrounds, the learning journey was inspiring to say the least. I have learnt to not look at a problem through a one-dimensional view, but to actually think in a more critical and holistic manner to how solutions can be developed and interacted from a communal point of view, thus creating a win-win situation.
Did you participate in any student activities or opportunities?
One of the opportunities that I participated in during my study here in Monash was to become the student representative for the MBIS program, during which I learned to communicate effectively and help students solve issues relating to their study needs. This included gathering feedback from students regarding the unit workload or assignments and the facilities provided to them, and bringing them up during school meetings for further action.
What did you enjoy most about your student life?
The friendship and learning aspects that I have gained over the two years. Coming into a new environment, into a subject area that is vastly different from my undergraduate studies [in business economics], the friends that I've met throughout the course were extremely helpful and somewhat of a family (due to our small group size). The bonds we built not only helped me to better my knowledge within the subject area but to also learn and experience different cultures and languages. I’ve now improved my Mandarin speaking skills!
What are your career goals?
My career goals pretty much lie within the business analytics and intelligence sector. I aspire to use the knowledge gained to enhance organisational insights towards current trends, and to help better drive products that bring value to both businesses as well as their customers. In the long-term, I hope to expand this knowledge into the social entrepreneur sector, where I would like to bringsuch technology to underprivileged communities to enhance their lives and provide a learning platform so that they are able to realise their dreams and achieve their potential.