Bridging the Gap: From Student to Finance Expert
The Department of Economics and Finance from ΊμΠΣΚΣΖ΅ Business School, in collaboration with ΊμΠΣΚΣΖ΅ Student LIFE, hosted a successful two-hour Finance Forum on βFinance Forward β Perspectives on Application and Career Opportunitiesβ on 10th July 2024 at ΊμΠΣΚΣΖ΅ University. The event aimed to equip first-year accounting and finance students with valuable insights into the exciting world of finance careers while acquiring financial and technical knowledge during university life. The forum featured distinguished industry speakers from established multinational companies. Mr Al Nizam, Director and Site Lead at the London Stock Exchange Group, Ms Nursuzanna Nordin, Head of Finance from MUFC Bank, and Mr Loh Chun Hee, Finance Coordinator of Shell Malaysia, all shared their unique career paths and valuable advice with the enthusiastic student audience.
Insights and Inspiration from Industry Experts
The speakers discussed current trends in the finance industry, emphasising the significant impact of fintech while underscoring the indispensable role of human analysis. They highlighted the importance of obtaining a degree as a minimum requirement to secure a job in the finance industry. Additionally, the speakers stressed the value of continually exploring new opportunities and networking with diverse individuals to enhance personal and professional growth. The event was a great success, providing students with a wealth of knowledge and practical advice to navigate their careers in the finance industry.
Mr Al Nizam urged students to step outside their comfort zones and embrace challenges. By taking on new experiences, they will develop valuable skills and open doors to unforeseen opportunities in the future. Stepping outside the comfort zone can lead to exciting and rewarding career paths. Ms Nordin's story served as a powerful inspiration for the students. Her journey from a non-finance company to a leading position in finance proves that a background in non-finance is not a barrier. Hard work, determination, and passion are key ingredients for remarkable success. Mr Loh's career trajectory highlighted the importance of exploring various opportunities. He did not settle for the first job he began but rather, by taking on different roles, he gained a well-rounded skill set that ultimately led him to his current position in finance. Unique experiences can be equally rewarding and subsequently embrace new opportunities.
What Our Survey Respondents Say
A total of 291 respondents completed the survey form, and 90% penned a positive remark after attending the forum. This enthusiastic response highlights the forum's success in engaging students and fostering a deeper understanding of careers in finance. Impressively, 46% of survey respondents reported a significant improvement in their knowledge, suggesting the event effectively equipped students with the information they need to navigate their future careers in finance.
Most survey respondents walked away with a clear roadmap for their financial futures. They gained invaluable insights into the dynamic finance industry, discovering a wealth of career possibilities and the importance of AI proficiency. They understood the foundational role of financial knowledge and the value of academic and professional qualifications. They were inspired by stories from industry leaders that ignited a passion for exploration, showcasing diverse career paths and the rewards of perseverance. Moreover, the talk empowered the respondents to cultivate essential soft skills like curiosity, adaptability, and lifelong learning, enabling them to thrive in a competitive job market.
Feedback from the survey showed that many students entering the finance field felt considerable uncertainty about their future. They cited intense competition among peers, the rapidly evolving skill set requirements, the potential impact of AI on employment, and overall job security as major worries. Many survey respondents felt unprepared, citing deficiencies in communication skills, lack of practical work experience, and insufficient industry knowledge as potential barriers to securing desirable finance positions. This forum has the potential to inspire first-year students to set their career goals, diligently acquire financial knowledge and skills, and cultivate strong leadership and personal attributes during their university years.
Dr. Choong Pai Wei
ΊμΠΣΚΣΖ΅ Business School
Email: @email
Dr. Renee Kok Shiau Hui
ΊμΠΣΚΣΖ΅ Business School
Email: @email
Dr Chong Poh Ling
ΊμΠΣΚΣΖ΅ Business School
Email: @email