Class of 2018
Degree: BSocSc major in Psychology and Corporate Communications
UX Design and Data Research Analyst
Appvantage Asia
Please tell us more about where you are currently working at and what you are doing.
From 9am to 6pm, I'm a UX Design and Data Research Analyst at Appvantage Asia, we design mobile first apps for the automotive industry. In my off-hours, I am working with some friends on a startup in the agriculture industry and a community for underrepresented women in the tech industry.
What made you choose to do a degree in Social Sciences and why did you choose to do it in SMU?
Doing a Psychology degree in SMU was the perfect choice for me as it allowed me to develop the research-driven analytical skills and empathy that Social Science students should have, with a business-centric learning style. Now that I'm taking my degree into the business world, I feel like I have the advantage of graduating as an empathic and analytical student who is passionate about helping businesses grow!
How has the SOSS experience been for you, and how has it benefitted you?
It has been very personal especially when it comes to the valuable opportunities that SMU provides to interact closely with professors and other bright students through projects and assistantships. SOSS has given me more than I've asked for!
Do you have any advice for your juniors that are currently in SOSS or for those who are planning to join the SOSS family?
Seize every opportunity to learn! Not just in class, but implant a mind-set to never stop learning. Every SOSS student certainly has a valid opinion to express, whether on the upcoming GST, or the Kim-Trump summit or how can we stay motivated in the workplace! May we continue to never stop questioning and finding answers together as an empathetic community!
Class of 2018
Degree: BSocSc major in Sociology
Constituency Manager
People’s Association
Please tell us more about where you are currently working at and what you are doing.
I am working at People’s Association as a Constituency Manager. My job involves building a community by being a bridge between government and people. As a constituency manager, I receive feedback from residents and find the right government agency to solve them. I also work with grassroots leaders to organise community events and activities for the neighbourhood. We build a community by attending to the needs of the people and making the neighbourhood a more liveable place.
What made you choose to do a degree in Social Sciences and why did you choose to do it in SMU?
In Polytechnic, I did a Diploma in Psychology. As much as what other people may think about psychology, as a mind-reading science and whatnot, psychology allowed me to understand more about myself. Using theories like Erikson’s I was able to better comprehend why I grew up the way I am and why I felt a certain way. In University, I wanted to continue my study of people, but this time, in Sociology. Sociology was more outward-looking to me, as compared to psychology which was inward-looking. Sociology taught me how the world worked, and showed me different perspectives of looking at the world. I learnt that the way our society is made is not the only way nor the best way to live.
How has the SOSS experience been for you, and how has it benefitted you?
My life in SMU had been the 4 best years in my life. I lived every moment doing what I wanted and loved. I took modules that I am genuinely interested in, participated in CCA actively, and gone for as many experiences and overseas trip as I can. What I wanted and eventually achieved from SMU was not just a degree - it is more than an education, it was an experience. And also, the best I could ask for.
Do you have any advice for your juniors that are currently in SOSS or for those who are planning to join the SOSS family?
I urge all new incoming students to spend every single hour and minute of your SMU life participating and being active. Take modules that you are interested in. Join CCAs even though they will make you busy. And most importantly take initiative to do more, join more, travel more, and experience more. SMU has a lot to offer, it is up to you to take what you want.
Class of 2019
Degree: BSocSc major in Sociology and OBHR
HR Benefits Analyst
Bank of America
Please tell us more about where you are currently working at and what you are doing.
I’m currently working in Bank of America back as a HR Benefits Analyst.
What made you choose to do a degree in Social Sciences and why did you choose to do it in SMU?
I found the social sciences interesting as I always wondered why people behaved the way they did, whether it was the behaviour of an individual or groups of people. I believe that knowledge of such nature requires a more interactive learning environment and this was where SMU’s lesson format really appealed.
How has the SOSS experience been for you, and how has it benefitted you?
SMU SOSS did not disappoint. I think the fact that it was so interactive really helped to hone analytical skills, as we would question our beliefs and try to understand opposing views. This has really helped in my profession as I’m required to analyse the impact of my work on the different categories of people in the company when putting up my proposals for improvement, thus helping me to value add to current processes as well as to come up with more well-rounded policies.
Do you have any advice for your juniors that are currently in SOSS or for those who are planning to join the SOSS family?
Don’t be afraid of putting yourself out there. I know that some of you are feeling apprehensive about the interactive nature of lessons in SMU, but trust me, such formats really help you in the learning of the social sciences. Rather than simply going through hours of lecture, the seminar style lessons will help you to deepen your understanding of the different fields and train you to be able to defend your views and comments when the time comes.