Launched in 2005, the Nanyang Alumni Awards are presented to alumni with exemplary achievements in their field of specialisation nationally, regionally, or internationally, or have contributed significantly to the University, the community or society.
Mr Chow Chung Ping, one of the proud and deserving recipients of the Nanyang Outstanding Young Alumni Award this year, graduated from NTU School of Biological Sciences (SBS) in 2010 with a Minor in Business. He is now the Managing Director of Genedata. Congratulations! Let’s hear more from Chung Ping himself.
Why did you join NTU SBS back then?
I have always liked biology as a kid, so doing a degree in biological sciences was a natural choice for me. NTU SBS also offered some module exemptions as I have a polytechnic diploma, so I felt that I have more time to explore/clear other electives and have actually overloaded the electives to get a minor in business.
How did your education with NTU SBS help shape who you are and what you do today?
The biological sciences course is a very intensive one. It gave me a solid foundation in biological sciences and the opportunity to learn deeply into the most current topics which have been relevant when I started working as a researcher. In NTU SBS, I have also learned to approach my learning independently and read widely. I am very glad that the professors were generally open to accept answers that were not in the recommended references, so long as the context is relevant and makes sense. I have cultivated the habit of researching on topics and how to read up quickly. It has helped me to pick up new knowledge along the way during my career. I think the ability to learn as one’s career progresses is an important skill and attitude to have, and NTU SBS is an environment that trains me to do just that.
Can you share with us one of your fondest memories while pursuing a degree with us?
I had the fondest memories of doing team projects in SBS. I recalled that some of the group projects were really fun, for example, the module on drug discovery where we have to come up with proposals. There were also individual assignments that ended up being a group effort. Other than the coursework itself, I’ve made some good friends in SBS that I am still in touch with today and missed running/jogging around NTU at night.
What do you do at Genedata?
I manage the operations of Genedata in Singapore, covering the Asia Pacific region. Besides managing the company and people, I also look for new businesses and collaboration opportunities around the region. A lot of my day-to-day activities involve understanding people, both inside and outside of Genedata.
Any tips or advice for anyone interested to pursue a business career in the Biological Sciences industry?
Try to do your best in the core modules at SBS. Most of the companies that hires business positions (e.g. sales, business development, marketing, etc) often requires the candidate to have a good scientific background. We often hear that grades are not important in the real world; I beg to differ. Having reasonably good grade will open doors in career opportunities as it is a testament of your ability to learn and work hard. Grades are certainly not the most important thing, but there are no disadvantage to having good grades. If you could afford the time, you could also try for a minor program of your interest while pursuing the degree. It would also be a good idea to read widely on self-improvement and business books, to discover your inner motivation and to learn about the business thinking. Most importantly, it is important to be comfortable in making changes to your career choices as you progress in your personal life. Sometimes you might find yourself having other callings; it is okay to change your mind.
NTU SBS is currently commemorating their 20th anniversary. Do you have a message that you would like to share with the school?
Happy NTU SBS 20th anniversary! Cell-ebrating 20 years of awe-smosis and many good years to come!