Beyond education, into leadership

Text: Derek Rodriguez | Photos: Hillary Tan

Hands-on job rotations to broaden your skillset

Ashley Tan (CEE/2021), Management Associate in the Student & Academic Services Department

"I work with both the Registrar’s Office and the Office of Global Education and Mobility. My mentors give me the opportunity to participate in their projects. They communicate with each other and make sure I exercise both sides of my brain – the strategy development side and the operation side – on the projects, which I think is very thoughtful. Something I’m working on now is exploring how to get the number of students going overseas for exchange back to pre-COVID levels. As Management Associates, we have many check-ins with senior management as well. The fact that they meet us so often despite their busy schedules says a lot about how much they prioritise us.”

Mentoring by NTU’s top leaders

Tommy Lee Lam (SBS/2023), Management Associate in the Provost’s Office

"When I was an NTU student, I would just come to the university for my studies and take the exams. But after joining as an NTU Management Associate, it was really exciting to find out that the University functions in a complex way that requires coordination between different departments. I get to see and review many policies for my role in the Provost’s Office, and the Provost, Prof Ling San, makes time for me to talk about my projects and my development in this rotation. I can also count on my colleagues for help. Whenever I have questions or want to learn something, they are always willing to help or to coach me.”

A supportive and exhilarating environment

Chor Jia Chi (SOH/2023), Management Associate in the Office of Administration

"Working in university administration has provided me with a unique perspective on how institutions of higher learning operate. In my role, I am very fortunate to be able to work directly with experienced senior management. This vantage point has given me invaluable insights into the decision-making processes, the considerations that university leaders prioritise, and the challenges they face on a daily basis. While the work can be challenging, my experience has been marked by a culture of support and mentorship. Colleagues are genuinely invested in my professional growth, and the sense of camaraderie is truly remarkable. The energy and activity on campus also create a stimulating atmosphere that complements the professional growth opportunities within the University.”

 

This article first appeared in issue 4 of U, the NTU alumni magazine.