NUS MBA Indonesia Spotlight: Yosephin Tjahjono
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Yosephin Tjahjono
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Describe what you were doing before embarking on your MBA.
Before embarking on my MBA, I was based in the Philippines, working for a multinational paper company. My final role was that of a Sales and Marketing Manager. I assumed a business and managerial position without possessing a robust foundation. Lacking a mentor, formal training, or educational background (I studied Pharmacy for my undergraduate degree) to bolster my foray into greater responsibilities, I consistently sensed that hands-on experience alone couldn’t bridge the gap. This was the driving force behind my decision to pursue an MBA.
What are you doing now?
I’m currently working in Singapore with a locally-based company that oversees multiple F&B brands and manages over 100 outlets. In this capacity, I serve as a Project Manager specialising in Digital and E-commerce projects. Additionally, I’ve had the privilege of teaching at NUS Business School for over a year now.
What was your NUS MBA journey like in terms of the resources and opportunities that you took part in?
What stood out the most at the beginning of my journey was the Launch Your Transformation bootcamp during the first week of my MBA programme. This camp brought about a realisation for me: that the NUS MBA and its entire ecosystem provide a safe environment to experiment and explore many new things. I was pushed beyond my comfort zone, allowing me to identify areas I wanted to improve upon and those I wished to further develop. Looking back, that experience set the tone for my entire MBA journey.
I also thoroughly enjoyed all the electives I took. Among those electives, the Asian Business Environment course, taught by Prof Ishtiaq Pasha Mahmood, greatly influenced my interest in geopolitical issues. To this day, I actively apply the strategic principles he imparted in the class. Another captivating course was Pricing Strategy by Prof Noah Lim, which opened my eyes to the different strategies behind price. The course was both enjoyable and highly enlightening.
How did the NUS MBA help with your career development?
There were plenty of activities and support available. The student clubs provided opportunities for us to explore and learn from industry experts. I particularly enjoyed the fireside chats with company leaders. It was enlightening to hear their perspectives and learn from their experiences in navigating the challenges they faced.
I also took the opportunity to explore different industries. I remember attending the NUS MBA Energy Club events and Sustainability Club events – two areas in which I had zero exposure before.
NUS BIZCareers and BIZAlum connected us with alumni and more experienced leaders through the mentorship programme. During my time, the BIZCareers office also hosted an Executive-in-Residence, Mr Tan Soo Jin, who shared a wealth of insights and advice based on his years of experience. I am fortunate to have him as my mentor till today.
Comparing your current self (post-MBA) to your previous self (pre-MBA), in what ways do you feel that you’ve changed?
My NUS MBA journey has been truly transformative. I found myself in a safe environment that encouraged experimentation and exploration. I met numerous people who not only assisted and inspired me in my self-improvement journey but also exposed me to diverse cultures and backgrounds, broadening my perspective.
In contrast to my former self, who was insecure and hesitant to speak in public, I now feel at ease addressing large audiences. I used to be extremely nervous just introducing myself from my seat. However, today, public speaking is something I approach with confidence.
Additionally, I’ve refined my ability to articulate thoughts and ideas in a more structured and concise manner, a skill I really struggled with previously.
Would you have done your NUS MBA any differently?
I deem my NUS MBA experience as fulfilling, even amidst the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic. The only aspect I would have done differently is my preparation prior to the commencement of the programme. I felt somewhat unprepared and clueless. I yearn for the opportunity to have engaged with more alumni, seeking additional tips and advice to better navigate the academic and personal aspects. This would have allowed me to delve deeper into opportunities and approach the experience with improved physical, mental, and financial readiness.
Many MBA aspirants feel that the NUS MBA is academically challenging. What do you think?
The GMAT exam, I must say, was more academically challenging (laugh). I find that the courses offered by NUS MBA place a stronger emphasis on application and practicality rather than theory. There are more case studies, projects, and class participation, where we are encouraged to voice our opinions, than traditional exams. In fact, I can count the number of exams I took throughout my time here on just one hand.
Furthermore, I gleaned valuable lessons in teamwork and leadership and honed my analytical skills through assignments. I even acquired proficiency in data visualisation from my teammates. At NUS MBA, learning isn’t confined to the lectures by our professors; we also learn from our classmates and from other people we meet during the programme. Moreover, the education extends beyond the classroom, encompassing experiential learning. I feel every single part of my NUS MBA journey contributed to the learning and development and created a balanced, holistic education and experience.
As an Indonesian student/alum, what would be your advice to other Indonesians who are considering the NUS MBA?
It was a steep learning curve for me, particularly due to the disparities in education and environment between Indonesia and Singapore. In addition, the NUS MBA offered a unique learning experience that was unlike anything available in our home country.
The application process for the NUS MBA is highly competitive. However, I firmly believe that nothing is impossible if we devote 100% of our effort to preparation. If giving 100% isn’t sufficient, then give 200%. If one approach doesn’t work, explore different routes.
Do you have any tips or advice to share on the application process, or on getting the most out of the NUS MBA experience?
Consider your MBA goals carefully before commencing the application process. Understand that pursuing this degree may require stepping back temporarily from your career for at least a year, making sacrifices in your personal life, and venturing beyond your comfort zone.
With this in mind, I strongly recommend outlining your motivations clearly. Once you’re on board, approach this experience with a “glass-half-full mentality”. Seize the opportunities to learn as much as possible and to explore various things. Along the way, remember to take time to step back and recalibrate yourself.
