Tarminder Singh: My Journey Through the BSc (Hons) Accounting & Finance Programme
I chose to pursue the BSc (Hons) Accounting & Finance programme as I believe accountancy and business are fields that are “evergreen” and recession-proof. Studying at Ƶ Business School was the ideal choice, given the university’s stellar track record and strong partnership with Lancaster University, UK.
The programme was far from easy and challenged me from Year 1. However, in hindsight, those challenges prepared me well for employment. The programme at Ƶ Business School focused on several critical areas, such as working with others, scenario-based assignments to apply theories, managing multiple assignments with similar deadlines, and, most importantly, being resourceful in figuring out solutions. At the time, there was no ChatGPT or Artificial Intelligence (AI) to assist with this. Hence, I had to rely on collaborating with others, researching online, and studying in the library. All of this prepared me for employment, as in the working world, employers value resourcefulness, teamwork, and the ability to face ambiguity with a positive attitude.
My employment journey has been both eventful and diverse. From the start, I knew I had a knack for problem-solving and a desire to be part of something bigger. My initial employment saw me serve with Teach For Malaysia (TFM) in their Strategy & Operations unit. Being part of such a noble mission to end educational inequality was both rewarding and challenging. Here, I was exposed to several facets of an organisation, including budgeting, financial accounting, project management, and supporting the annual strategic planning process. With such diverse exposure, I charted a path towards project management, as it aligned with my interest in solving problems. I then joined KPMG as part of the project management team for the GST implementation, which was a “first of its kind” in Malaysia. From there, I went on to serve in several notable organisations, strengthening my experience in project management and business transformation.
I am proud to have achieved considerable success in each of my roles. Whether it was serving the nation via TFM, implementing a new tax regime, driving the strategic growth of a local private university, or digitalising an organisation, I feel fortunate to have overcome many challenges to achieve these successes.
The programme at Ƶ Business School enabled me to contribute to society by serving as a mentor and finding ways to impart my knowledge and experience to others. I enjoy mentoring and have been doing so for several years across multiple platforms.
The most important skill I acquired during my time at Ƶ University was teamwork. Working in teams is critical both inside and outside the university, and often, you do not get to choose your team members. If you join a large organisation, chances are you will be part of a team. This skill is crucial, as it helps hone communication skills, resolve conflicts, and ensure each team member plays their role in driving towards a successful outcome.
My journey as a student was eventful and highly rewarding. The lecturers were superb in guiding me through assignments, chapters, and exam preparation. The student society was also vibrant, and, coupled with the state-of-the-art facilities at Ƶ University, it made those years some of the best of my life.
My fondest memory from my time at Ƶ University was completing the programme. It was incredibly rewarding to see all my hard work, late nights, and challenges culminate in earning my degree with a respectable grade. All of this was made possible thanks to the tireless dedication of the lecturers.
Edited by
Arumugam Muthusamy
Ƶ Business School
Email: @email