Meet our MSc TIP alumna, Pamela Yuson!
In 2021, Pamela Yuson found herself at a pivotal moment in her life. Having completed her undergraduate degree in Industrial Engineering at De La Salle University in the Philippines, she was eager to take the next step in her academic journey. She wanted a postgrad programme that matched her passion for innovation and entrepreneurship—and gave her the tools to succeed. While the United States offers renowned institutions and vibrant academic environments, the distance from home felt daunting. Singapore, on the other hand, provides a safer and more familiar setting with a multicultural atmosphere and world-class education. Her decision was clear: Singapore would be her destination.
During her search into the offerings of Singapore’s top universities, NTU and NUS, she discovered NTU’s MSc TIP course. The programme’s combination of theory and application, coupled with its focus on real-world problem-solving, immediately caught her attention. "They give you a lot of case studies, a lot of projects, and many opportunities to collaborate with industry professionals," Pamela recalled. "It shows you how theory can be applied to real-life situations, often through experiential learning." After careful consideration, she was certain that the MSc TIP programme was the perfect fit for her.
A Passion in Entrepreneurship
Pamela shared that it was her parents who inspired her to explore the world of innovation and entrepreneurship. Growing up, she witnessed her parents' unwavering dedication as they navigated the complexities of the business world. “Their resilience and commitment instilled in me a deep desire to pursue a similar path,” she explained. “Through their example, I learned the importance of hard work, ethical practices, and giving back to society. They showed me that success in business isn’t just about personal gain but about making a meaningful difference in the lives of others.”
Pamela faced a significant hurdle when the COVID-19 pandemic delayed her move to Singapore, and she had to complete her first trimester remotely due to travel restrictions. "The hybrid class setup was initially challenging, but the NTUpreneur team made great efforts to minimise any gaps and ensure a smooth learning experience for us," she said gratefully.
Once she could join classes in person, she noticed the diverse classroom dynamics. "I observed differences in communication styles, with some students being more reserved and others more outspoken. Group work and collaboration reflected varying educational backgrounds and cultural norms," she noted. Embracing these differences, Pamela actively participated in group projects, class discussions, and post-class conversations. Her openness to learning from her peers enriched her cultural awareness and adaptability.
An Enriching Learning Journey
During the programme, two projects stood out as particularly transformative for Pamela. The first took her on a learning journey to Block 71, Singapore’s "little Silicon Valley", a hub for start-up accelerators, incubators, and venture capital firms. Immersing herself in this ecosystem, she gained insights into the challenges and opportunities within Singapore’s entrepreneurial landscape. The second project involved collaborating with a sustainable start-up to develop a tool for assessing the environmental impact of various initiatives. Over three months, Pamela and her team laid the groundwork for the project, gaining invaluable hands-on experience working with a local start-up. "It was incredibly rewarding to see how the knowledge acquired in class could be applied to real business scenarios," she enthused.
Pamela’s academic journey at NTUpreneur was shaped by two professors who left a lasting impression. Inderjit Singh Dhaliwal, a successful entrepreneur, angel investor, and adjunct professor at NTU, captivated her with his practical insights. "He’s really inspiring," Pamela said. "He shares from real experiences of his own and shows how to apply the knowledge imparted, making lessons relevant to real life." She was also grateful to Associate Professor Tan Joo Seng, an expert in strategy, international business, and entrepreneurship, who stood out for his hands-on teaching approach. His focus on practical application resonated deeply with Pamela.
Reflecting on her time in the MSc TIP programme, Pamela expressed a newfound appreciation for the intersection of innovation, entrepreneurship, and technology. While she is not currently involved in a business venture, she plans to gain more work experience and refine her skills before embarking on her own entrepreneurial journey when the time is ripe.
A Commitment to Excellence
Today, she works as Manager of Corporate Operations at Swan & Maclaren Group, where she focuses on driving organisational changes to enhance efficiency and create value. "The MSc TIP programme trained me to have a more holistic view of the issues at hand," she said. "This enables me to make targeted efforts at creating effective solutions for sustainable success." Pamela added that she finds it extremely fulfilling when her efforts and the projects she drives lead to tangible benefits and improved lives.
Living and working in Singapore has been a transformative experience for Pamela. "One of the greatest benefits is the opportunity to be part of a vibrant multicultural environment," she pointed out. "Interacting with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds and working styles has significantly contributed to my personal and professional growth. Additionally, Singapore’s efficiency and strong focus on innovation are highly inspiring, fostering a forward-thinking atmosphere."
Pamela credits the MSc TIP programme with helping her adopt an entrepreneurial mindset within the corporate world. With the skill set acquired, she is able to make strategic decisions, becoming highly adaptable in a fast-paced environment. The ability to build strategy and think innovatively puts her in good stead to ride the winds of change. To her, success requires a growth mindset, an openness to change, and a commitment to continuous learning. "Networking is also crucial," she added. "It can open up vast opportunities as one steps into the future."
"The MSc TIP programme’s unique combination of practical and theoretical learning is one of the best there is," she emphasised. "It equips budding entrepreneurs with the right skillsets and prepares students for the long-term challenges ahead, regardless of the industry they might join."
As Pamela continues her professional journey, she carries the lessons and experiences from NTUpreneur with her. Confident and determined, she is ready to embrace the future, knowing she has the tools to make a meaningful impact in whatever path she chooses.
Read the rest of our NTUpreneur Student and Alumni Stories.
