Inspired to learn

With a love for financial analysis, Chiong Yiru, 25, enrolled in SIM University (UniSIM) to pursue a part-time degree in accountancy.

He said: “I like uncovering the stories behind these financial figures.”

As for Lim Hui Qin, 21, after studying analytics in polytechnic, she realised the importance of the knowledge of business fundamentals. Intrigued, she signed up for a part-time degree in business analytics at UniSIM to learn more about the business process.

“I wanted to deepen my analytics skills and increase my business knowledge so that I can add value to businesses," said Hui Qin, who started school earlier this year.

Here, Yiru and Hui Qin share their experience.

Why did you choose to study at UniSIM?

Yiru: I like the flexibility the university gives its students. Attending classes is not compulsory, so if I have urgent work commitments, I am able to attend to them without worry. UniSIM focuses a lot on self-learning and this lets me study at my own pace. The accountancy degree also puts me on the fast track to fulfilling the mandatory requirements needed to obtain professional Chartered Accountant of Singapore qualifications.

Hui Qin: Students enjoy a flexible schedule, which benefits me as I work full-time. I can gain hands-on experience at work and further my knowledge with lessons in the evening. The study materials are also provided online, allowing me to revise on my own and prepare for lessons. Each course has lessons held once a week. This lets me plan my timetable and gauge the commitment that is required.

Tell us about the curriculum and lecturers.

Yiru: This degree focuses on the application and theory behind financial reporting standards and covers basic finance knowledge. Accounting Theory was my favourite course as it explained how human behaviour influences the development of accounting standards.

Hui Qin: The lecturers enhance our learning with actual business scenarios and get us to participate in discussions. They also share their own experiences, and teach us the right values and work ethics.

Are there any learning opportunities outside the classroom?

Yiru: UniSIM regularly organises industry talks to prepare students for current and future business developments. As a scholar, I have also been given the chance to be an ambassador for the School of Business.

Why did you apply for the UniSIM scholarship?

Hui Qin: I like that the scholarship is bond-free and doesn’t restrict my future plans. The requirement of maintaining my results also motivates me to excel academically.

How will your degree benefit your career?

Yiru: When I graduate next year, I hope the degree will aid my career advancement in terms of responsibility, position or salary.

SIM UNIVERSITY

ABOUT: Students in the UniSIM School of Business get a good mix of theoretical and applied learning that will help them become effective leaders and competent decision-makers.

VALUE-ADD: The unique curriculum brings business reality into the classroom and the students into the business world. The programme structures are flexible and promote self-directed learning.

NEW PROGRAMMES: These degree programmes now have an Honours option: BSc Business, BSc Business Analytics, BSc Finance, BSc Marketing, and BSc Logistics and Supply Chain Management. The following programmes are available with a minor option: BSc Business with Contemporary China Studies, and BSc Business with Psychology.

This article is published in the September 2016 issue of The First Degree, a publication of  TODAY, Mediacorp Press.