Yugeswari D/O Murugesan is an undergraduate in the School of Accountancy at the Singapore Management University and a Quantedge Foundation Scholar since 2018. She intends to major in Data Analytics and extend her knowledge and experience in Accounting. She enjoys interacting with others through volunteer and community work, listening to music and watching horror movies.
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Tell us more about your journey from ITE to University.I chose to pursue Higher Nitec in Accountancy instead of taking ‘O’ levels to achieve my desired course at Poly, even though I was qualified for the latter. Despite stereotypes of “ITE” implying “It’s the end”, my experience there was transformative. I am thankful for my Year 1 ITE lecturer, Ms Devaki Kannan, who kept me focused on my studies and helped me achieve my goal of qualifying for Poly.
Carrying a positive attitude to Poly, I adapted to the lecture-tutorial format. Now at SMU, I appreciate how my journey has prepared me for the interactive pedagogy and internships. Despite being a year behind my peers, I have no regrets and look forward to inspiring others by sharing my journey from ITE to university. “ I have no regrets and look forward to inspiring others by sharing my journey from ITE to university"
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Imagine yourself in three years. What difference do you hope to see in yourself?I want to be more confident in presenting my ideas to others. SMU has helped me improve my public speaking skills by encouraging me to participate more in class discussions and ask questions. I also practise for my presentations and use practical strategies like arriving early, taking deep breaths and smiling more to reduce anxiety. These efforts help me build confidence with each successful contribution. |
You have said that accountancy is your passion and you have plans to major in data analytics. Tell us more about your career goals.My deep interest in accountancy was fuelled when I took Principles of Accounts in secondary school and learnt of its relevance to every organisation in Singapore. During my internship at the Ministry of Communications and Information, I saw the importance of data analytics for the audit sector – how it frees up auditors’ time to provide value-added services. I was excited to learn that SMU offers the option to pursue a second major in Accounting Data and Analytics, which will prepare me to contribute meaningfully to my future workplace. |
During your free time, you provide free tuition to two girls from a financially disadvantaged family. What has the experience taught you?I provided free Tamil tuition to an acquaintance, S, who comes from a large family facing financial difficulties. Despite the challenge of finding a common time to meet, I taught her vocabulary and proverbs once a week during the school term and spent most of my summer breaks teaching her as well. My experience as a relief teacher at Boon Lay Garden Primary School helped me prepare lesson plans and strategies to activate her prior knowledge. S recently completed her 'N' level examinations and felt confident in acing her Tamil exam. I also taught English to a toddler using sensorial activities, storytelling and role-play with toys. Teaching a toddler requires patience and time to bond with them. Overall, my tutoring experience has helped me to grow as a person, and watching those I help grow gives me immense pride. |
What advice and tips do you have for a new QF scholar on how to navigate the first semester in SMU?Life is full of opportunities, but setbacks are not uncommon. We must be prepared for failure and view each one as a step closer to success. University is not just about earning a degree; it is a pursuit of education and life-long learning. Make the most of your university experience by exploring your interests and developing your talents. Participate in internships or community service projects to put your skills and knowledge into practice beyond the classroom. |