Tan Yinn Wayne

Course: Bachelor of Business and Commerce, 2016
Nationality: Malaysian
Current role: Senior Associate (Talent and Learning Management), Kenanga Group

Why did you choose to study business at Monash?

Besides being a prestigious Australian university in Malaysia, the course allowed me to choose the majors I wanted to specialise in. Being interested in two different spectrums of business which often conflicts, Monash Business allowed me to pursue accounting and marketing. I was also given the chance to choose units that were beyond the two majors’ core units – hence taking some Taxation and Finance units. Having a holistic understanding of the business environment is essential for a world moving towards globalisation.

Did you go for any work placements?

I took up a part-time job while studying at Monash, working in the Finance industry doing financial consulting and property purchase planning. It helped to provide knowledge on taxation (which I took up as my electives) which were very beneficial to my clients at that time. Not only that, I got to connect with corporate people easily when I attended a seminar on business building. As Monash has taught me the different tools and gone through case studies through assignments, it made me assimilate into conversations about business building easily, as if I’ve gone through the tools before with the other entrepreneurs. Overall, Monash has taught me to be critical in my decisions – to know and weigh both sides ensuring that the best outcome of the decision made for that particular circumstance.

What did you enjoy most about your student life?

I took part in the MUSA elections but lost to the opposing party. The incident has taught me much about selling my idea to the masses and creating policies that would benefit the student population like reducing the lead time for event proposals, creating a mascot for the Monash C&S department and continuing the Monash Sports Carnival (at that time).

Besides that, I really enjoyed the events hosted by MUSA and the many Clubs & Societies. Being able to interact with the lecturers and tutors closely, gaining advice and ideas were also something I love most about – I am still in contact with some of them today!
The 24-hour study rooms which were available for use a few weeks before the exam season to study, and completing assignments throughout the night – burning midnight oil – to ensure completion before the due dates.

What are your career goals?

My biggest desire is to influence, invest and inspire a generation of Malaysians to nation-building and create a place where all Malaysians can nurture the country to be a giant in Asia and the world.