AlumNUS

Vox Alumni: A World of Opportunities

Traverse the globe, and you can find NUS alumni hard at work in more than 100 countries. We asked a few of them what makes their city’s job scenes unique – and what you need to know to enter the market.

London

“The most important approach is to be true to yourself. If you can see and explain yourself in the role/company, then you can answer any question from your potential future employer. Do your research, be aware of your strengths, always be open to learning, and believe in [the importance of being] a team player. Being respectful of diversity and inclusion is key.” 

Ms Vicki Yeo (Arts & Social Sciences ’05), Strategy and Partnerships Lead, Concave Summit

Hong Kong

“In Hong Kong, the culture is formal, with jackets worn during the weekdays. People work hard, with a focus on professionalism, customer satisfaction and financial success. Weekends are for relaxation.”

Dr Johnny He (Singapore-MIT Alliance ’01), Founder & Partner, SinoVest Capital

Tokyo

“In Tokyo, ‘Digital Transformation’ continues to be a trending term across all industries, and individuals with the relevant capabilities are in high demand. Speaking Japanese is still a better-to-have.”

Mr Takumi Kawai (MBA ’14), Partner, Centex & Brightz

Toronto

“I particularly relish the work-life balance in Toronto’s job culture. The ‘Right to Disconnect’ law in Ontario protects employees from being pressured to engage in work-related communications outside of regular working hours. In fact, in my workplace, we studiously avoid using WhatsApp for work.”

Ms Billie Lu (Arts & Social Sciences ’85), Clinical Research Associate, Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto

San Diego, California

“San Diego is a thriving hub for biotechnology and biopharma industries, providing abundant opportunities for fresh graduates and seasoned professionals to excel in a fast-evolving landscape. Post-COVID, the rise of numerous startups has made America’s Finest City an even more attractive destination for talent and innovation.”

Ms Mathangi Srinivasan (Engineering ’13), Associate Director-Engineering, Illumina

Washington, DC

“The job market to join international organisations is competitive. In Washington, DC, the work culture is professional and candidates are expected to be ready to showcase their technical specialty.”

Dr Cheng Ruijie (Public Policy PhD ’22), Economist, The World Bank