School of Social Sciences

Class of 2017
Degree: BSocSc major in Political Science

Public Affairs Manager
European Chamber of Commerce

Please tell us more about where you are currently working at and what you are doing.

I currently work at the European Chamber of Commerce in a public affairs role where I lead the advocacy work of the chamber representing the European business community to the Singapore government and the European Commission.

What made you choose to do a degree in Social Sciences and why did you choose to do it in SMU?

I discovered my interest in current affairs and politics when I was in JC and had decided to pursue a political science major in university. SMU SOSS stood out as my top choice because of the balance of academic training and practical exposure available to students.

How has the SOSS experience been for you, and how has it benefitted you?

While at SMU, I had embarked on a political science study mission to Brussels, an international exchange to Iceland, and one local and overseas internship to Moscow. These were valuable opportunities that I appreciate SMU for offering. They also proved to be extremely rewarding afterwards as I secured my current role in my company as a result of my internship. The international exposure together with the broad based curriculum had broadened my world view and honed my analytical skills, and also allowed me to communicate across cultures better too.

Do you have any advice for your juniors that are currently in SOSS or for those who are planning to join the SOSS family?

My advice for juniors would be to take charge of your career and make the most of your time at SMU. Be passionate about what you love and be active in your student life too. Your academic grades will only take you so far but your internships, student activities and international experiences will benefit you so much more.