Yap Shin Ling
Senior Consultant, Malaysia
Master of Analytics
When Yap Shin Ling decided to further her knowledge of analytics, she soon found herself at AUT in Auckland and enrolled in a Master of Analytics.
“I’m a software consultant and had dealt with many data integration and data warehouse projects in various industries, including market research, entertainment booking systems, property, construction, casinos, bowling, banking, and petrol and gas. I realised how important it is to turn data into valuable information for decision-making. I could see that the Master of Analytics would enhance my analytics skills and enable me to learn the latest tools and techniques to turn data into insightful information. I chose to come to AUT because it’s a prestigious university in New Zealand and had the programme that suited my preference.”
It's a decision she certainly hasn’t regretted, and she thoroughly enjoyed her time as an international student in New Zealand.
“All the lecturers who taught me during the degree were well-experienced, and had both academic and industry expertise. Because of this, they were able to provide helpful and relevant advice for any queries I had, and their encouragement helped me overcome any obstacles during my studies. While I was at AUT I also enjoyed joining the AUT Malaysian Student Association.
“One of the highlights of my time in Auckland was completing an internship with Air New Zealand, working with the data science team on a critical flight project. My research was to identify the flight delay factors from a given set of data and providing the team with ideas for how to reduce the number of delays. From the project, I was able to learn and apply the Python language, together with my analytical skills.”
A consulting career at Deloitte
After graduating from AUT in 2019, Shin Ling has returned to her home country Malaysia where she now works as a senior consultant, most recently for Deloitte Consulting (SEA) Sdn. Bhd.
“What I enjoy most about my work is getting involved in projects from various industries and being able to learn new technology that helps me complete the projects on time. My studies prepared me well for the work I do, and helped me develop the skills to analyse the problem, find the solution for the problem and then execute the solution.”
She is proud of what she has already achieved in her career so far.
“The achievement I’m most proud of so far is being able to work in various industries and gaining industry knowledge to complement my IT expertise.”
Advice for other students
Shin Ling has some great advice for other students who are only at the start of their own university journey.
“My advice is to be a fast learner and be well-versed with logical thinking, various programming languages, and a mathematic and statistics background.”
She also has some guidance for those interested in a career similar to hers.
“To succeed in this field you need to have interpersonal skills, always think out of the box and have a strong sense of responsibility and determination.”
