JUMPSTART Your Career! August 2007, VOL. 5

JUMPSTART BULLETIN

August 2007, VOL. 5

ACCELERATE

Fuel up: UPCOMING PRePARE EVENTS & ACTIVITIES 99

...CAREER EXPLORATION FAIR (August – October) ...Come explore careers/professions of various industries. You can also clarify your career interest by taking our online career tests. Look out for filed trips to companies and talks by industry professionals! ... .. INTERNSHIP PROGRAMMES (December – February 2008) ...Calling students who are interested to learn and gain exposure on the working world! Email us (Name, H/P and Programme) or visit us at the Student Services Department ...9 Criteria: 1. A degree student at least in the 2nd year of studies 2. Majoring in Business (Accounting, Banking & Finance, Marketing/International Trade), Information Technology or Engineering 3. Have at least 6 weeks to spare during your term break

A Quarterly Publication by PRePARE

W hat Employers Want

He was the first non American to head the Student Body of the University of Bridgeport, USA - because he wanted to MAKE A DIFFERENCE He then joined GE Inc as an intern and in the next 13 years, took up various roles and challenges including turning around a company that was not making profit - because he wanted to LEARN and SUCCEED He is now fondly known as the ‘Godfather’ of the GE Financial Management Programme - because he was PASSIONATE All this because of his philosophy - NEVER STOP LEARNING He is Roshan Thiran, the former Director, Finance Human Resource (Asia Pacific) of General Electric Inc and is currently heading the Human Resource Department of Johnson & Johnson. During a recent interview with him, you can never fail to be inspired by his experiences and be amazed of how much you can do if you believe you can make a difference. Here are his thoughts... What sort of fresh graduate impresses you?

I look out for someone who exudes CONFIDENCE. I believe it is with confidence that you built on communication and other soft skills. No one will be impressed if you do not show confidence and truly believe in what you say You’ve got to have ability to LEAD and SPEAK-UP for what you believe in. And more importantly, someone who is PASSIONATE and passion demonstrates itself when you communicate.

How can a fresh graduate get all these traits?

Interested to be in our mailing list? CONTACT US Adelene Goh / Elisa Dass / Ee Sarn / Vincent Hah PRePARE - Career Development @ Training Unit Student Services Department - Student Centre Call 03-7491 8622 Ext 8021/8069 OR Email [email protected]

Accelerate

You must first fill your life with EXPERIENCES. Experiences on things where people around say you are incapable of doing but you did it and CHALLENGES where you did things that people thought were impossible. I believe one of the best ways is to get involved in EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES and TAKE ON ROLES where you can lead others or make a difference.

I think that by filling your life with challenges and hardships shape the person you are and who you will become. You will be tougher (when put in challenging situations), more driven and passionate about what you do.

Advice to graduating students

Think about what you want to do and how to achieve it. If you want to be successful, you must find out what are the skills and competencies you require to achieve it.

NEVER GIVE UP if can’t get a job in the first few months. Attend as many job interviews as you can and get the experience. Learn from the mistakes you made and improve yourself. Find a ROLE MODEL whom you look up to and can inspire you to succeed. And finally, NEVER STOP LEARNING to keep growing. Always strive to MAKE A DIFFERENCE in the world.

Ignite

W hat Graduates Say

W hat Graduates Say ‘Never be afraid to take on additional responsibilities’ - Victor Chin Victor Chin Mou Loong School of Computer Technology (Computer Science), graduated 2005 Currently working as Solutions Consultant - Sunway Business Applications. SMART Initial thoughts of the Working World

Initially, I thought that as long as I have great enthusiasm and passion for my work, and worked as hard as I could, anything is achievable within a short period of time (i.e. promotion, high salary, etc.). But things are different when you’re in the working world, and although all those attributes mentioned earlier did still matter, there were other factors that come into play such as the organizational structure, your superior/mentor, the company culture and of course office politics! These can all break or make your career path.

On Employers’ Expectations

Generally, I think employers expect you to LEARN quickly, be willing to TAKE ON ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES and of course, at the end of the day, contribute to the company. I was fine with those expectations as I am always willing to learn and am never afraid to ask anyone if I had any doubts. Apart from that, taking on additional responsibilities (regardless of whether it is job related or not) came naturally to me because I viewed it as an opportunity to learn more things. I also did a lot of SELF-LEARNING on other subject matters so that I can perform better on my job, therefore INITIATIVE is an important aspect

On preparing oneself for the Working World

I definitely would involve myself in as much EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES or perhaps enroll myself into any of the professional associations to expand my circle of friends. This is because it was only after I graduated that I found myself turning back to friends, lecturers and others in my social network for advice and help. They really made all the difference.

‘Right mindset, attitude and staying focused will ensure that your objectives are met’ - Yune-Une Chia Yune-Une Australian University Programme (Marketing & International Trade), graduated 2006 Currently working as Management Associate - ING Insurance Berhad Initial thoughts of the Working World

Initially, finance was one industry I would never touch with a 10 foot pole, but the Prudential Young Talent Development Progamme (PYTDP) organized by Prudential Assurance Malaysia & PRePARE gave me my first taste of finance and I was hooked. It was challenging, at first as finance is a totally different aspect from what I had pursued at university. However, it was an excellent opportunity to challenge myself out of my comfort zone. It is, therefore, important for you to have the RIGHT MINDSET, ATTITUDE and stay FOCUSED to ensure that your objectives are met.

‘Challenge yourself in all that you do. That’s how you learn best’ - Roshan Thiran On Employers’ Expectations

I believe the key expectations are: 1. PERFORMANCE-DRIVEN - Therefore, you have to be PROACTIVE rather than reactive. 2. ABILITY TO LEAD - A leader is not someone who leads all the time but rather synergizing to create greater success within a team 3. AMBITION/DESIRE TO SUCCEED - You must be PASSIONATE about the work you do regardless of how simple or challenging it is. 4. WILLINGNESS TO LEARN - The important thing is to be HUMBLE if you want to learn new things 5. ABILITY TO HANDLE CHALLENGES - You should be able to work under pressure and handle deadlines. Therefore, you should enjoy your work rather than treating it like a chore Last but not least, I believe being ETHICAL is vital regardless of the company you work in.

‘You have to be willing to learn and want to succeed’ - Roshan Thiran

On preparing oneself for the Working World

Advice to ‘juniors’

Never be afraid to TAKE ON ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES, even though at times it may seem trivial or that you are doing other’s work. In the end, you are the one who will benefit and learn from the experience. Most importantly, have faith in yourself. Never let anything dampen the passion and enthusiasm you have when you first entered the workforce. If you can maintain this for the years to come, it will definitely set you apart from anyone. That shows PERSEVERANCE and DETERMINATION. Finally, improve on your SOFT SKILLS (i.e. presentation skills, teamwork, negotiation etc.). Employers today have a vast variety of graduates to choose from and the only difference that sets you apart from the rest is not the qualification you possess (most likely thousands of other graduates have the same qualification as you do) and if you can show these skills, you are well ahead of the competition.

It was great honing my soft skills by participating in EVENTS/ACTIVITIES organized by PRePARE (i.e. PYTDP, Resume Critique, Interview Preparatory Programme, etc). However, I wish I had a more balanced portfolio on marketing and finance. I could have spent some time to explore other industries perhaps through exploratory events/activities organized by PRePARE.

Advice to ‘juniors’

I believe, ATTITUDE/MINDSET plays a big role, there’s a saying that your attitude determines your altitude. And my motto in life is “Carpe Diem” which means “Seizing the day” in Latin, on the other hand, it is also important to be HUMBLE for a person to be willing to learn. I would also like to encourage you (whether you are in the 1st year or in 3rd year) to be involved in EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES and participate in more EVENTS/PROGRAMMES organized by PRePARE as “The Scroll” is NOT all the employers look at. I believe a balance of both academic and soft skills are essential.

The panelists 1. Adzhar Ibrahim – Head of Human Resource, Digi Telecommunications 2. Gerard Yuen – Group Manager of Group IT, Sunway Group 3. CT Chan – Sales Manager, Diamond Key International 4. Mohd Afzan Osman – GlaxoSmithKline Pharmaceutical

Event thumbnails

Career Fair 2007

Steer

Network Tea with Employers 2007

Dialogue with Employers 2007

Common expectations outlined 1. ATTITUDE – Self Confidence, initiative and being proactive 2. WILLINGNESS TO LEARN 3. Demonstrated LEADERSHIP qualities 4. COMMUNICATION and ability to converse fluently in English

Leadership Training

Steer

W hat Graduates Say

W hat Graduates Say ‘Never be afraid to take on additional responsibilities’ - Victor Chin Victor Chin Mou Loong School of Computer Technology (Computer Science), graduated 2005 Currently working as Solutions Consultant - Sunway Business Applications. SMART Initial thoughts of the Working World

Initially, I thought that as long as I have great enthusiasm and passion for my work, and worked as hard as I could, anything is achievable within a short period of time (i.e. promotion, high salary, etc.). But things are different when you’re in the working world, and although all those attributes mentioned earlier did still matter, there were other factors that come into play such as the organizational structure, your superior/mentor, the company culture and of course office politics! These can all break or make your career path.

On Employers’ Expectations

Generally, I think employers expect you to LEARN quickly, be willing to TAKE ON ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES and of course, at the end of the day, contribute to the company. I was fine with those expectations as I am always willing to learn and am never afraid to ask anyone if I had any doubts. Apart from that, taking on additional responsibilities (regardless of whether it is job related or not) came naturally to me because I viewed it as an opportunity to learn more things. I also did a lot of SELF-LEARNING on other subject matters so that I can perform better on my job, therefore INITIATIVE is an important aspect

On preparing oneself for the Working World

I definitely would involve myself in as much EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES or perhaps enroll myself into any of the professional associations to expand my circle of friends. This is because it was only after I graduated that I found myself turning back to friends, lecturers and others in my social network for advice and help. They really made all the difference.

‘Right mindset, attitude and staying focused will ensure that your objectives are met’ - Yune-Une Chia Yune-Une Australian University Programme (Marketing & International Trade), graduated 2006 Currently working as Management Associate - ING Insurance Berhad Initial thoughts of the Working World

Initially, finance was one industry I would never touch with a 10 foot pole, but the Prudential Young Talent Development Progamme (PYTDP) organized by Prudential Assurance Malaysia & PRePARE gave me my first taste of finance and I was hooked. It was challenging, at first as finance is a totally different aspect from what I had pursued at university. However, it was an excellent opportunity to challenge myself out of my comfort zone. It is, therefore, important for you to have the RIGHT MINDSET, ATTITUDE and stay FOCUSED to ensure that your objectives are met.

‘Challenge yourself in all that you do. That’s how you learn best’ - Roshan Thiran On Employers’ Expectations

I believe the key expectations are: 1. PERFORMANCE-DRIVEN - Therefore, you have to be PROACTIVE rather than reactive. 2. ABILITY TO LEAD - A leader is not someone who leads all the time but rather synergizing to create greater success within a team 3. AMBITION/DESIRE TO SUCCEED - You must be PASSIONATE about the work you do regardless of how simple or challenging it is. 4. WILLINGNESS TO LEARN - The important thing is to be HUMBLE if you want to learn new things 5. ABILITY TO HANDLE CHALLENGES - You should be able to work under pressure and handle deadlines. Therefore, you should enjoy your work rather than treating it like a chore Last but not least, I believe being ETHICAL is vital regardless of the company you work in.

‘You have to be willing to learn and want to succeed’ - Roshan Thiran

On preparing oneself for the Working World

Advice to ‘juniors’

Never be afraid to TAKE ON ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES, even though at times it may seem trivial or that you are doing other’s work. In the end, you are the one who will benefit and learn from the experience. Most importantly, have faith in yourself. Never let anything dampen the passion and enthusiasm you have when you first entered the workforce. If you can maintain this for the years to come, it will definitely set you apart from anyone. That shows PERSEVERANCE and DETERMINATION. Finally, improve on your SOFT SKILLS (i.e. presentation skills, teamwork, negotiation etc.). Employers today have a vast variety of graduates to choose from and the only difference that sets you apart from the rest is not the qualification you possess (most likely thousands of other graduates have the same qualification as you do) and if you can show these skills, you are well ahead of the competition.

It was great honing my soft skills by participating in EVENTS/ACTIVITIES organized by PRePARE (i.e. PYTDP, Resume Critique, Interview Preparatory Programme, etc). However, I wish I had a more balanced portfolio on marketing and finance. I could have spent some time to explore other industries perhaps through exploratory events/activities organized by PRePARE.

Advice to ‘juniors’

I believe, ATTITUDE/MINDSET plays a big role, there’s a saying that your attitude determines your altitude. And my motto in life is “Carpe Diem” which means “Seizing the day” in Latin, on the other hand, it is also important to be HUMBLE for a person to be willing to learn. I would also like to encourage you (whether you are in the 1st year or in 3rd year) to be involved in EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES and participate in more EVENTS/PROGRAMMES organized by PRePARE as “The Scroll” is NOT all the employers look at. I believe a balance of both academic and soft skills are essential.

The panelists 1. Adzhar Ibrahim – Head of Human Resource, Digi Telecommunications 2. Gerard Yuen – Group Manager of Group IT, Sunway Group 3. CT Chan – Sales Manager, Diamond Key International 4. Mohd Afzan Osman – GlaxoSmithKline Pharmaceutical

Event thumbnails

Career Fair 2007

Steer

Network Tea with Employers 2007

Dialogue with Employers 2007

Common expectations outlined 1. ATTITUDE – Self Confidence, initiative and being proactive 2. WILLINGNESS TO LEARN 3. Demonstrated LEADERSHIP qualities 4. COMMUNICATION and ability to converse fluently in English

Leadership Training

Steer

JUMPSTART BULLETIN

August 2007, VOL. 5

ACCELERATE

Fuel up: UPCOMING PRePARE EVENTS & ACTIVITIES 99

...CAREER EXPLORATION FAIR (August – October) ...Come explore careers/professions of various industries. You can also clarify your career interest by taking our online career tests. Look out for filed trips to companies and talks by industry professionals! ... .. INTERNSHIP PROGRAMMES (December – February 2008) ...Calling students who are interested to learn and gain exposure on the working world! Email us (Name, H/P and Programme) or visit us at the Student Services Department ...9 Criteria: 1. A degree student at least in the 2nd year of studies 2. Majoring in Business (Accounting, Banking & Finance, Marketing/International Trade), Information Technology or Engineering 3. Have at least 6 weeks to spare during your term break

A Quarterly Publication by PRePARE

W hat Employers Want

He was the first non American to head the Student Body of the University of Bridgeport, USA - because he wanted to MAKE A DIFFERENCE He then joined GE Inc as an intern and in the next 13 years, took up various roles and challenges including turning around a company that was not making profit - because he wanted to LEARN and SUCCEED He is now fondly known as the ‘Godfather’ of the GE Financial Management Programme - because he was PASSIONATE All this because of his philosophy - NEVER STOP LEARNING He is Roshan Thiran, the former Director, Finance Human Resource (Asia Pacific) of General Electric Inc and is currently heading the Human Resource Department of Johnson & Johnson. During a recent interview with him, you can never fail to be inspired by his experiences and be amazed of how much you can do if you believe you can make a difference. Here are his thoughts... What sort of fresh graduate impresses you?

I look out for someone who exudes CONFIDENCE. I believe it is with confidence that you built on communication and other soft skills. No one will be impressed if you do not show confidence and truly believe in what you say You’ve got to have ability to LEAD and SPEAK-UP for what you believe in. And more importantly, someone who is PASSIONATE and passion demonstrates itself when you communicate.

How can a fresh graduate get all these traits?

Interested to be in our mailing list? CONTACT US Adelene Goh / Elisa Dass / Ee Sarn / Vincent Hah PRePARE - Career Development @ Training Unit Student Services Department - Student Centre Call 03-7491 8622 Ext 8021/8069 OR Email [email protected]

Accelerate

You must first fill your life with EXPERIENCES. Experiences on things where people around say you are incapable of doing but you did it and CHALLENGES where you did things that people thought were impossible. I believe one of the best ways is to get involved in EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES and TAKE ON ROLES where you can lead others or make a difference.

I think that by filling your life with challenges and hardships shape the person you are and who you will become. You will be tougher (when put in challenging situations), more driven and passionate about what you do.

Advice to graduating students

Think about what you want to do and how to achieve it. If you want to be successful, you must find out what are the skills and competencies you require to achieve it.

NEVER GIVE UP if can’t get a job in the first few months. Attend as many job interviews as you can and get the experience. Learn from the mistakes you made and improve yourself. Find a ROLE MODEL whom you look up to and can inspire you to succeed. And finally, NEVER STOP LEARNING to keep growing. Always strive to MAKE A DIFFERENCE in the world.

Ignite

EXPLORATORY VISITS AN EXPLORATION OF VARIOUS INDUSTRIES

AUGUST... 8TV (Bandar Utama) 21 August, Tuesday 1.30pm - 5.00pm

SEPTEMBER... Digi Telecommunications (Shah Alam) 14 September, Friday 9.00am - 1.00pm

OCTOBER... CryoCord - Stem Cell Bank (Cyberjaya) 8 October, Monday 9.00am - 1.00pm

PROTON (Shah Alam) 25 October, Thursday 9.00am - 1.00pm

NOVEMBER... North Port (Port Klang) 2 November, Friday 9.00am - 1.00pm

LIMITED SPACES AVAILABLE ON FIRST-COME-FIRST-SERVED BASIS!! To register, please complete the Registration Form and Letter of Consent and submit to Adelene Goh or Soo Ee Sarn - Student Services Department Contact Info: email: [email protected]