Ms Angela Chua is the Senior Executive of NTU USP. She handles administrative tasks and other related issues.
Recently, USP APR managed to secure an interview with her, where she shares about working as an alumna of NTU, 50% sales and more!
Q: How did you come to work at NTU USP?
A: Previously, I was working in DBS as a Customer Service Officer. Everyone was telling me about how the banking industry was an industry with bright prospects. I was required to work shifts. I missed the gathering with families, meet ups with friends and I really didn’t have time for myself. I remember I was really unhappy then.
I came across the job advert for this position and I applied. I like the idea of working in a familiar environment and students as my working partner. And thus, here I am! I have been here for 1 and a half years and it has been great thus far. I’m very happy to be back in my alma mater.
Q: NTU USP is not the usual school programme: it is fairly new and has students from different disciplines. Why did you choose to join this programme as a staff member?
A: I chose USP exactly for this reason! I am still very intrigued by the idea of being able to meet people from different walks of life. Being in a new programme would also mean that I am involved with the setting up of many things and that has brought me much experience in my work. This is not the standard, typical school programme, and I am proud to be part of this programme.
Q: What do you think is the most fulfilling aspect of your work?
A: Students usually would approach me because they encounter problems that they are unable to resolve by themselves. I get this sense of accomplishment when I get to do something for them or when they leave my office with a smile on their faces.
There are also some really nice students who remember me, even getting snacks for me after their overseas trips! Some would offer to packet lunch when they are making their way to the lounge. Their kind gestures are what spur me further in my job.
Q: What do you think is the most challenging aspect of your work?
A: I think the challenging part to know the right person to approach to get things done. When I first started, I was new to everything (the systems, the procedures,etc). Sandra and I had to learn things on our own, and we struggled our way through. We were being pushed around. Now that we get to know people from other departments, things got better.
I often face different issues which I have to deal with. That would mean that I have to come up with different resolutions as well. I might not have the answer to every question they have, but I will try my best.
There will also be certain periods when I will be busy. For example, the recent course registration meant that I had to stay on my desk for long hours dealing with the overwhelming questions and requests that the students have.
Q: What do you think of USP students or the culture at USP? How do we compare to your peers?
A: They are fun and engaging. The students know what they are doing and they are aspiring.
The USP students come from different backgrounds and cultures. I have learnt a lot from all of them. It certainly broadens up my horizon getting to know them. It’s hard to compare, it’s just a different experience.
Q: What were you like as a university student?
A: I was the typical obedient student, who turned up for classes and submitted my assignments on time. I was not a good student as I was very quiet and I seldom attended school events.
I would usually hang out with a couple of friends and then study together when the examinations are looming. My favorite past time then would be to go karaoke, shopping, and finding good deals in Singapore. I remember rushing for a 50% sale after school!
Q: How would you like the USP Programme to progress in the next five years and what do you see USP becoming in the long run?
A: USP Programme is progressing from its initial stage right now and I can definitely see a lot of potential in its growth in the near future. I would be expecting more perks for USP students and that there would definitely be more events to bond them together. I believe that USP will be the reason why potential students would choose NTU over other universities!
As a relatively small family, the journey does not stop even after they graduate. We hope to rope in our alumni. There will have more graduates who will share their experience in the workforce with their fellow juniors and perhaps function as a bridge to recommend jobs.
Q: Lastly, what’s your number one piece of advice for us, or is there a message that you would like to convey to USPians?
A: Work hard, play harder! Results are important but definitely not everything, experience is the key. I would encourage them to play an active role in building USP and participate in events organised by their peers.
Ultimately, the journey is the reward.
