Ruby Nguyen: From Healthcare to Project Management with the NUS MBA
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Ruby Nguyen
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How does a healthcare professional with seven years of industry experience discover new career possibilities? Our series on the journeys of NUS MBA alumni continues, featuring Ruby Nguyen, a 2023 graduate from Vietnam. Her career spans over seven years in the healthcare industry. Trained as a healthcare professional and driven by curiosity and passion, Ruby has worn many hats, from product management to healthcare consultancy. Through the NUS MBA, she sharpened her expertise and explored new career paths, transitioning into project management with a focus on integrating technology and data into corporate strategy. Via a Q and A, let’s look at her inspiring journey.
How has the NUS MBA influenced your career direction, especially given your background? Are there specific skills or experiences that have helped you in ways you didn’t expect?
The NUS MBA opened career opportunities I had never imagined pursuing. With a background as a healthcare professional and over seven years in roles such as product management, training, healthcare solutions consultancy, and marketing, I initially enrolled to deepen my expertise in healthcare marketing. My goal was to secure a product management role in the healthcare industry post-MBA.
However, during the program, my perspective broadened significantly. Through courses like Managerial Operations and Analytics, Corporate Strategy, Digital Marketing, and Service Management, I discovered new interests and skills. I realised I could expand my career to consulting, strategy, business analysis, and project management within healthcare corporations.
Serving as President of the NUS MBA Healthcare Club also played a pivotal role. It allowed me to connect with inspiring industry leaders, deepening my understanding of how healthcare companies leverage technology in strategic planning. This exposure fueled my passion for integrating technology and data into corporate strategy, which I now apply daily.
Can you share how interacting with a peer from a different field or country changed your perspective on a business challenge?
One of the most valuable aspects of the NUS MBA was the diversity of my cohort. With over 200 students from various countries and industries, every project and case competition was a learning experience.
For example, as this was a new area, I struggled with complex financial concepts during the finance management module. My teammates, who had strong finance backgrounds, broke down the material in ways that were easy to understand. Thanks to their support, I passed the module. I developed the ability to analyse financial statements—a skill I now use regularly to identify cost-saving opportunities and improve project profitability.
This experience reinforced the importance of collaboration and diverse perspectives. It also prepared me for my current APAC Project Management role, where I work with colleagues from nearly 20 countries to solve business challenges.
Was there a particular project, internship, or consulting experience during the MBA that had a lasting impact on your approach to your career?
The NUS MBA’s flexibility allowed me to take on multiple challenges and opportunities. The second trimester was particularly intense—I managed academics, organised events for the Healthcare Club, took on an MBA consulting project, and worked part-time at Baxter.
This whirlwind period pushed me to my limits, teaching me essential skills like leadership, time management, communication, and teamwork. As a result, I secured a 7-month internship at Fresenius Medical Care Singapore, which ultimately became a full-time role.
The skills I honed during this time also helped me transition from a project management role in Singapore and ANZ to a regional position overseeing APAC-wide projects. Collaborating with colleagues across nearly 20 countries has been both challenging and rewarding, and I credit my MBA experience for giving me the confidence and ability to excel in this environment.
Since graduating, how have you leveraged the NUS global alumni network for mentorship, career opportunities, or industry insights?
While I’ve been busy with work since graduation, the mentorship program has been one of the most valuable aspects of the NUS MBA alumni network. In 2021, I was paired with Wendy, a mentor with extensive experience in healthcare MNCs. Wendy’s guidance helped me navigate Singapore’s competitive job market post-COVID-19 period. Her advice on career planning and strategic networking has been invaluable, and she remains a lifelong friend and mentor.
Beyond the mentorship program, I connected with several NUS MBA alumni during my internship applications. Their support and insights helped me understand the roles and companies I was targeting, which proved instrumental in securing positions. The global alumni network is a resource I plan to engage more with as I progress in my career.
What advice would you give prospective students from your home country on preparing to get the most out of the NUS MBA experience?
For incoming NUS MBA students from Vietnam, my advice is twofold.
First, step out of your comfort zone and embrace every moment of the MBA journey. It won’t always be easy, and there will be moments of doubt. But when you look back, you’ll see that each experience has shaped your skill set and clarified your post-MBA goals.
Second, focus on building your network from day one. Connect with MBA peers, alumni, and industry leaders. The NUS MBA offers numerous opportunities to meet like-minded individuals through club events, conferences, internships, and referrals. Take the time to share your experiences and listen to others; you may even find lifelong mentors who will support you in your career and beyond.
Conclusion
Ruby Nguyen’s sharing shows how the NUS MBA can help professionals explore new possibilities and redefine their career paths. By stepping out of her comfort zone and embracing the program’s opportunities, she discovered her passion for integrating technology and strategy in the healthcare industry. So, if you’re ready to be like Ruby, discover what the NUS MBA can do for you, and learn more about the program on the website.
