DIRECTOR’S DIRECTOR’S NOTE NOTE Ms Hay Lee Keng
Director, Learner Advisory & Career Centre Singapore Institute of Management Dear SIM students,
As we approach the close of 2025, this season offers more than just a wellearned break – it is also an opportunity to pause, recharge and reflect on how far you have come and where you would like to go next. In this final edition of the 2025 Career Connect newsletter for the year, we invite you to explore career reflection through a lighter lens: “Career Holidays around the World – Where Your MBIT Personality Takes a Global Break.” In this edition, we explore how the different MBTI personality types approach relaxation and reflection, and how it takes you into your career journey. Whether you recharge in your quiet getaway holiday, or find energy in bold adventures in snowy mountains, we hope the insights drawn from your travel style and personality will inspire you to align your career choices with what truly energises you. You will read about the interesting highlights of our first experiential learning study trip to China – Beyond Borders: Shenzhen Career Exploration Journey. The 24 participating students returned with invaluable experiences, industry insights and meaningful connections that have enriched their university journeys. We look forward to welcoming more of you on upcoming experiential learning trips planned for 2026! Please also mark your calendar for the DREAMS Career & Internship Fair 2026 happening on 27 February, along with other meaningful career events and workshops curated to support your career growth. On behalf of everyone at Career Connect, I wish you a restful holiday season and a reflective start to the year ahead. We look forward to supporting you as you embark on your purposeful career journey in 2026! Warmest regards, Lee Keng
CONTENT PAGE 1&2
Meet the Team
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LinkedIn Mastery - Elevate Your Professional Presence
4
Sustainability Communication: From Ethics to Practice
5&6
IGNITE Career & Internship Fair 2025
7&8
Beyond Borders: Shenzhen Career Exploration Journey
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International Student Career Forum (ISCF) 2025
10
Student Spotlight
11 & 12
Tips On Salary And Offer Negotiation
13 & 14
MBTI Flight Mode
15
From Intern to Achiever: Featuring SIM60 WILL Award Recipients
16
Behind-The-Scene of Q4'25 Newsletter Creation
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Upcoming Workshops & Events
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Quiz Win Voucher?!!
O ve rs ea s T ri ps ?! !
Meet The
1
advisor
advisor
eDITOR
Senthil Kumar Turgesh University of London BSc (Machine Learning & AI)
Vanessa Lim University of London BSc (Business & Management)
Nurul Hidayah RMIT University Bachelor of Business (Marketing & Management)
eDITOR
WRITER
WRITER
Lee Xin Yi University of Stirling BA (Marketing)
Shareen Farhaana RMIT University Bachelor of Business (Management)
Lim Vi Ron University of Wollongong BBis (Information Systems)
Q4 TEAM! WRITER
WRITER
WRITER
Danice Jolene University of London BSc (Business & Management)
Sakthivel Sriharini University Of London BSc (Computer Science)
Jeanette Kwek University of London BSc (Business & Management)
WRITER
WRITER
Patricia Lim University of London BSc (Economics & Finance)
Sri Lakshmi University of London BSc (Management & Digitial Innovation)
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LinkedIn Mastery
025 2 CT O 07
Elevate Your Professional Presence WORKSHOP OVERVIEW
On the 7th of October 2025, 32 students participated in the LinkedIn Mastery Workshop, conducted by Mr Lionel Lim, a seasoned personal branding cum learning & development consultant. The workshop focused on building & expanding meaningful networks, with hands-on guidance and practical insights. Participants were equipped with advanced techniques to enhance their professional presence and how to craft an authentic LinkedIn brand with confidence.
KEY HIGHLIGHTS The S.P.I.E.S. framework Structure your personal brand using Strengths, Passion, Interests, Experience, and Skillsets, TIP: Use SPIES to express your natural communication style! 3-Week LinkedIn Posting Challenge A step-by-step plan to build visibility & voice TIP: Choose a posting rhythm that is comfortable to you – consistency matters more! Leveraging the Social Selling Index (SSI): Reflects brand strength, engagement & networking TIP: Play to your natural networking style – broad or deep!
Through the LinkedIn Mastery Workshop. I learned how to craft a clear value story through my profile, post consistently with purpose, and use analytics to identify what content truly engages others.
Wayne Neo BSc. Computer Science University of Wollongong
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One of the most memorable parts was the interactive segment, where we connected and collaborated with students from various courses and schools, a rare opportunity beyond the classroom. Since then, posting weekly has doubled my Social Selling Index, showing how authenticity and consistency drive measurable professional growth. Attending a workshop proved transformative, emphasizing the power of LinkedIn for professional growth.
Sustainability Communication: From Ethics To Practice Workshop Overview On 22 and 29 November 2025, students attended a two-day Effective Sustainability Communication workshop led by Ms Tan Bee Lay and Dr Katy Kan.
The programme covered ethical climate messaging, the International Sustainability Standards Board Climaterelated Disclosures standard (S2) and the use of digital tools for impactful sustainability communication.
Key Highlights Core of Sustainability Communication • Understanding Environmental, Social and Governance _ pillars & why clear messaging matters • Avoid vague buzzwords; show real action ▸ TIP: Be transparent — clarity builds trust Climate Storytelling & Narratives • Turn sustainability issues into engaging stories • People connect better with human-centred narratives ▸ TIP: Use visuals + real examples for impact Introduction to International Sustainability Standards Board Climate-related Disclosures (Standard S2) Standards • Basics of global climate disclosure frameworks • TIP: Align communication to recognised standards ▸ Improves clarity and comparability
Technology for Sustainability (Artificial Intelligence) • Using data & smart systems for better reporting • TIP: Leverage tech for real-time insight ▸ Enhances tracking and accountability
Let’s Hear What Our Attendee Has to Say Throughout both days of the workshop, I developed a clearer understanding of sustainability as a core business strategy. The sessions reshaped how I view businesses as drivers of long-term value and risk management in a changing climate landscape.
Tan Hong Sen BSc. (Honours) in Business Management University Of London
The workshop highlighted how to identify misleading sustainability claims and apply responsible communication principles through real-world company case studies. The interactive discussions made the learning practical and relevant, equipping me with a more critical and confident approach to evaluating corporate sustainability strategies.
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Over 850 students participated in Career Connect's annual IGNITE Career & Internship Fair on 3 October 2025. Having over 60 participating companies, including DBS, Deloitte, PWC, L'Oréal and along with the newly joined companies/employers - Ministry Of Foreign Affairs and EPOS, IGNITE is a perfect event for students to network with a diverse range of employers and discover new opportunities related to their desired career paths.
KEY TAKEWAYS Networking opportunities with key industry partners Insider hiring insights (in-demand skills, employer expectations) Opportunities to ask professionals questions and gain real-world advice. Opportunities for participants to secure desired internships and full-time jobs.
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LET’S HEAR FROM OUR STUDENT! IGNITE career fair was a good opportunity to network and explore the different industries, giving me a chance to speak to the many interesting employers about the skills required for each role and get their contacts. Postings about the event via email blast also made things easier to enter the event. The previous career fairs as well as this one, has different companies coming each time, so it is always insightful to get to
Linus Phoon BSc in Business & Management University of London, Year 3
know what the different employers want and what we can do to make ourselves employable!
LET’S HEAR FROM HDB! As an employer, students who are polite, proactive, and curious, especially those who ask thoughtful questions, tend to stand out. While there is tight competition for jobs in the public sector, students from private institutions are recognised and welcomed. Come to interviews prepared as the interview is often the decisive stage. While qualifications matter, it’s your real-world impact that sets
Tan Wei Yuan Senior HR Manager Housing & Development Board (HDB)
you apart: internships and projects that show transferable skills and measurable outcomes prove you can translate knowledge into results.
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BEYOND BORDERS: SHENZHEN CAREER EXPLORATION JOURNEY
From 17 November to 21 November, 24 students embarked on a five-day Career Exploration Journey to Shenzhen, to immerse in its fast-paced business environment. Designed to connect classroom theory with realworld practice, the programme focused on the technology sectors, featuring visits to Astribot, Corliber, Lenovo, CGL and Chiyu Technology. This experience gave students a firsthand look at China’s innovation culture and explored career opportunities bridging Singapore and Shenzhen.
Up close and personal with Astribot!
Lenovo Robot Dog!
Students participated in workshops on Consulting & Market Research and Career Development, gaining practical tools for case analysis and professional branding to sharpen their future goals. The networking dinner brought together students, SIM alumni, and invited guests in a dynamic and engaging setting. The event offered students the opportunity to exchange experiences, gain practical insights, and establish meaningful connections with alumni over dinner.
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Let’s hear from our participants! This trip was eye-opening, introducing a work culture strikingly different from Singapore’s. While Singapore tends to be cautious and process-focused, Shenzhen thrives on rapid experimentation, teaching me to adapt quickly and embrace innovation. As a non-Chinese speaker, navigating interactions taught me to listen intentionally and rely on non-verbal cues. A highlight was our group’s consulting presentation; synthesising research under pressure strengthened my confidence. This experience deepened my interest in finance and reaffirmed my aspiration to work in global environments.
Vaishnavi University of London (UOL) BSc (Honours) in Accounting and Finance
“Stay curious, embrace discomfort, and make every experience count.”
Compared to Singapore’s structured culture, Shenzhen operates at a fastmoving pace, with decisions made in hours rather than weeks. While initially overwhelming, it showed me that thriving in ambiguity is a key strength in global environments. Cross-cultural communication was a significant challenge. Despite being fluent in conversational Mandarin, the rapid-fire technical jargon like “ " (large-model inference clusters) pushed me beyond my domain mastery. It was a humbling lesson in layered language fluency, sharpening my cross-cultural agility. This journey solidified my ambition to build a career bridging Singapore and China in the technology and innovation space.
大模型推理集群
Wang Hao Ming University of London (UOL) BSc (Honours) in Computer Science
“Practise the language and rely on your teammates. The shared challenges will become your best memories.”
Keen to Be Part of the Experience? Join Our Upcoming Trip! Our Sustainability Communication & Exchange Programme features an overseas trip to Medan (Indonesia) from 22–27 June 2026.
WANT THE DETAILS?
REGISTER NOW!
Join our Info Session on 21 January 2026 to find out more. QRCO.DE/CAREERSENSE
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STUDENT CAREER FORUM SIM AIRLINES
On 11 October 2025, the International Student Career Forum brought together around 60 international students for an programme themed “Campus to Career Success.” The event featured panel discussions, alumni sharing, and networking sessions to help students enhance their employability skills and explore career opportunities in Singapore. This was followed by breakout group sessions, where students and alumni engaged in deeper discussions.
LET’S HEAR FROM ONE OF OUR ALUMNIS Patricia
underscored
that
internships
serve
as
key
differentiators in today’s job market, providing students with essential practical exposure. She encouraged international students to consider remote internship opportunities and to develop ATS-friendly CVs tailored to specific job requirements. Patricia
recommended
presenting
personal
weaknesses
constructively by linking them to actions taken or lessons
Patricia Natasha
Software Engineering, System Development, Digital Solutions
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learned that demonstrate growth. Extending her advice, she further highlighted the value of networking with seniors and seeking mentorship from peers or industry professionals.
Why I went on an Overseas Exchange Programmme
I’m currently on an exchange programme in Stirling, Scotland to gain overseas exposure and experience a new learning environment. I was especially drawn to the company attachment module, as it offers valuable hands-on experience and will be a strong addition to my portfolio.
How This Experience Influence My Career Direction
This exchange has helped me better understand
JANESSA LIM BA (Hons) Marketing University of Stirling
My Takeaways From This Experience
Some key takeaways from this experience include becoming more independent and confident in stepping out of my comfort zone. Living and working with people from different cultures has strengthened my adaptability and communication skills. The company project provided real-world marketing insights, and I also learnt how to balance studies with travel while building meaningful friendships abroad.
the type of career I’d like to pursue. Through the company collaboration module, I gained handson marketing experience that strengthened my
My Advice To Students
passion for the field. It also gave me a clearer idea of the roles I want to explore in future — especially those that blend creativity with real-world business impact.
If you have the chance, go for an overseas exploration journey. Studying abroad is a rare opportunity to step out of your comfort zone, meet new people and see things from a fresh perspective. You’ll discover a lot about yourself — both personally and professionally.
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TIPS ON SALARY AND Before the Journey – Preparation Plan Your Route Before You Fly Map things out before you begin the conversation Research salary ranges to negotiate Set budget: minimum acceptable salary Create a “travel plan” for your conversation
Pack Your Proof Bring what shows your value like packing for trip Bring “career souvenirs”-resume, testimonials etc. Show how your skills take the company further
During the Journey – Negotiation Stay Calm Through Turbulence Even smooth journeys have turbulence; stay composed Remind yourself you deserve to discuss this If rejected, thank them and ask for feedback Calm professionalism leaves a lasting impression
Take a Layover Before You Decide A short stop gives you time to think clearly Thank them and ask for time to evaluate Compare salary, bonuses, and career progression
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OFFER NEGOTIATION After the Journey – Reflection Enjoy the Journey Every journey has lessons along the way Treat it as a conversation, not a confrontation Stay optimistic and open to creative solutions Celebrate the learning even if rejected Every conversation builds your future confidence
Bring Home a Souvenir Jot down highlights of each interview Make a “career scrapbook” noting what impressed employers
After the Journey – Reflection Choose the Right Season Timing is everything, like choosing when to travel Discuss salary after receiving an offer Show enthusiasm first before negotiation
Learn the Local Language Companies have their own culture and communication Use collaborative phrasing: How can we align the offer? Mirror the recruiter’s tone and listen actively Credits: Robert Walter, Harvard Business Review & Jennifer Herrity
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MBTI Flight Mode Discover how your personality type travels, recharges, and takes flight for a meaningful year ahead. Extraversion
Introversion
Energised by people, group vibes, & spontaneous plans.
Finds calm in quiet spaces, solo time, & reflective activities.
Career mode: Thrives in fastpaced, social environments that need quick thinking.
Career mode: Works best in focused, peaceful environments with minimal interruptions.
Holiday tip: Pace your plans— mix meetups with pockets of quiet rest.
Holiday tip: Keep a book or playlist handy and take short solo breaks to recharge.
Sensing
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VS
VS
Intuition
Enjoys hands-on activities, clear plans & noticing details.
Drawn to colour, culture & big ideas that spark curiosity.
Career mode: Practical, reliable & action-oriented in day-to-day tasks.
Career mode: Imaginative & future-focused; thrives on creative problem-solving.
Holiday tip: Loosen the schedule—pause, look up, & enjoy the moment.
Holiday tip: Keep a small journal or take photos to capture inspiration along the way.
MBTI Flight Mode Discover how your personality type travels, recharges, and takes flight for a meaningful year ahead. Thinking
VS
Feeling
Logical, objective & comfortable making clear, structured decisions.
Connects through stories, shared experiences, & meaningful conversations.
Career mode: Excels in analytical, fast-paced, & collaborative environments.
Career mode: Empathetic & team-focused; values harmony in the workplace.
Holiday tip: Leave buffer time— join a tour or activity without overpacking the schedule.
Holiday tip: Join a class, tour, or volunteer activity to meet people meaningfully.
VS
Judging
Perceiving
Loves structure, clear plans, and ticking items off an itinerary.
Enjoys flexible days, open plans, and unexpected discoveries.
Career mode: Organised and dependable; thrives with clear goals.
Career mode: Adaptable and creative; thrives in open-ended settings.
Holiday tip: Keep one day unplanned for surprises and relaxation.
Holiday tip: Keep a day free for spontaneity and unexpected discoveries.
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FROM INTERN TO ACHIEVER Featuring SIM60 WILL Award Recipients
Elyse Quek RMIT University Bachelor of Business Human Resource Intern @ The Lo & Behold Group During my internship, I supported the Talent Acquisition team in sourcing candidates across various hospitality concepts. Within the first month, I was entrusted with managing the end-to-end hiring process, from screening resumes to coordinating interviews and extending offers. I also took the initiative to create a comprehensive hiring tracker, going beyond what was expected to enhance both organisation and team’s efficiency. This experience solidified my interest in this field, providing meaningful exposure to the industry beyond the classroom. I especially valued the opportunity to connect with candidates on a personal level and gain insight into what motivates them. My advice to fellow peers: Take initiative and stay curious. Treat your internship as a real opportunity to learn, contribute, and grow—you’ll walk away with valuable skills and a clearer sense of direction for your future.
Lim Bing Enn
University of London Bachelor of Science in Banking and Finance Investment Banking Intern @ UBS Singapore
During my internship, I worked across FX, Rates & Credit and Investment Banking Operations, supporting front-to-back trade lifecycle management. I gained hands-on experience in FX swaps and options lifecycle, rate booking for NDFs, and collaborated with Sales and Trading for FX rate fixing. My involvement in automation projects sharpened my problem-solving skills and deepened my understanding of risk and compliance. Tailoring my CV to spotlight the relevant skills, then conveying genuine market interest in interviews, made a big difference for me. Juggling my studies alongside a full-time internship strengthened my management skills, discipline, and ability to adapt. My advice to fellow peers: Be proactive, stay curious, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Internships are a learning journey—treat every challenge as an opportunity to grow professionally and personally.
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BEHIND-THE-SCENES Of Q4'25 Newsletter Creation
As the year wraps up and the holidays approach, we were inspired by the idea of travelling — and decided to pair it with something we’ve been exploring recently: MBTI. After learning how different personalities work, communicate and even travel differently, we created a travel x MBTI–themed newsletter. This issue has been a team effort from October to December 2025, from planning to design and countless edits. Through meetings and brainstorms, we refined our segments while giving everyone creative freedom. We’ve poured a lot of heart into this, and we hope you enjoy reading it as much as we enjoyed creating it.
A Message from the Newsletter ICs, Just for You As ICs, we poured our hearts into shaping this newsletter—the timeline, the design, and the voice. Every section was carefully tended to, making sure it stayed true to Career Connect’s purpose while also reflecting the feedback and hopes shared with us. With each draft, we asked ourselves what we would want to read, what would make us pause, smile, or feel understood. This edition carries all of that intention, and we truly hope that, as you read it, you feel the care stitched into every page.
Lee Xin Yi University of Stirling BA (Marketing)
We hope this issue helps you uncover something new about yourself, sparks ideas you can carry into your own journey, and offers moments of comfort and connection through the stories and student spotlights. Above all, we hope it encourages you to take that next step—whether it is pushing yourself a little further, daring to explore new possibilities, or even joining us at Career Connect’s upcoming workshops and events. Nurul Hidayah RMIT University Bachelor of Business (Marketing & Management)
We can’t wait to see you soon, and to continue growing, learning, and discovering together.
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Upcoming Events & Workshops B O A R D I N G PA S S
SCIENCE AND ART OF THE DEAL (WHAT SALARY CAN I ASK FOR) DATE: 6TH JAN 2026
BOARDING TIME: 12.00 PM TO 3.00 PM CAREER CONNECT AIRLINES
B O A R D I N G PA S S
HOW TO ACE THE ASSESMENT CENTRE DATE: 24TH JAN 2026
BOARDING TIME: 10.00 AM TO 12.30 PM CAREER CONNECT AIRLINES
B O A R D I N G PA S S
ASK-ME-ANYTHING: EXPLORING A TECH CAREER TH
DATE: 24 JAN 2026
BOARDING TIME: 11.30 AM TO 1.00 PM CAREER CONNECT AIRLINES
B O A R D I N G PA S S
DATA VISUALISATION AND PRESENTATION DATE: 7TH FEB 2026
BOARDING TIME: 10.00 AM TO 12.00 PM CAREER CONNECT AIRLINES
B O A R D I N G PA S S
DREAMS CAREER AND INTERNSHIP FAIR 2026 DATE: 27TH FEB 2026
BOARDING TIME: 11.00 AM TO 4.30 PM CAREER CONNECT AIRLINES
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QUIZ TIME! Be the first 20 to win the $10 Grab voucher!
STEP 1: ANSWER THE QUIZ! The tip “Choose the Right Season” for negotiation timing recommends discussing salary at which hiring process? A. Only after securing a written contract B. After receiving an offer, but not before C. In the final stage of the interview process. D. As the first item of discussion with the recruiter
The S.P.I.E.S. framework helps you structure your personal brand using Strengths, Passion, Interests, Experience, and ____. A. Scenes B. School C. Skillsets D. Side Hustles
How should you address your weaknesses in interviews? A. By showing they’ve learned and improved B. By framing weaknesses in a way that makes __ _ _them appear less significant C. By emphasising strengths without ignoring areas __ _for growth D. By presenting them as fixed traits
Attending career fairs is beneficial because they provide you with: A. Academic credit through employer +__participation B. Guaranteed internships and full-time job _ _ _placements C. Networking opportunities with key industry partners D. Priority hiring over non-attendees
STEP 2: FEEDBACK CARD Scan this QR code now! Let us know your thoughts on this newsletter issue! qrco.de/q4feedback
@simcareerconnect
Grab Voucher alert! Grab it now! #1 Save your MCQ answers and the screenshot of your feedback form #2 Email them to careerconnect@sim.edu.sg First 20 winners will be chosen!
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