Transforming curiosity into impact: my journey in technology and innovation

Chiang Yi Chen, a final year student on the BSc Computer Science (Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence) programme at the Singapore Institute of Management (SIM), is set to graduate in 2024 and embark on a software engineering traineeship at Foodpanda.

Here, Yi Chen reflects on her academic journey and how her hands-on experiences have shaped her professional growth and understanding of technology’s real-world applications.

The turning point 

There is a question that I frequently contemplate: “How can we use technology to enhance life for everyone?” How can we leverage the power of AI and machine learning to transform mundane tasks into automated, efficient processes? This curiosity catalysed my decision to pursue a degree in computer science, where I seized the opportunity to turn my questions into reality.

My academic journey

I started my studies at SIM-UOL during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2021, where classes were held online and orientations conducted virtually in the comfort of my home. It wasn’t until my second year when I could experience campus life properly – meeting my peers on campus and immersing myself in all that the university had to offer. 

A highlight of my academic journey was representing SIM-UOL at high-profile events. I was nominated to speak to the Digital Affairs Bureau of Taichung City Government and Feng Chia University. I shared my experiences as a Computer Science student and my involvement in extracurricular activities that helped me develop my professional network and leadership skills. This prestigious opportunity highlighted the global recognition of SIM-UOL’s academic offerings and the programme's excellence. It was a proud moment that demonstrated the impact and quality of our curriculum on an international stage.

Furthermore, I was honoured to showcase my projects at SIM IT Day in 2022, 2023, and 2024. Not only did these presentations highlight the innovative work emerging from our programme, but they also illustrated my personal academic development and contributions to the field. Each event provided a platform to engage and share insights with the public on cutting-edge technologies.

Leadership highlights

Joining the SIM Information Technology (IT) Club as a Deputy Technical Director was a pivotal decision that enabled me to gain practical event and project management skills. In this role, I spearheaded the organisation of the SIM ITC x Omnitool Applied AI Hackathon event.

The hackathon became a platform to showcase the forefront of student innovation and earned the club a landmark achievement – the Best Events Award. The success of the event bolstered my confidence in my ability to drive large-scale projects, manage a team, and inspire creativity and problem-solving among event participants.

In addition to the hackathon, I played a crucial role in organising workshops such as the SIM ITC 5 Minutes Lightning Talk and the SIM ITC GitHub Workshop. These events challenged my ability to coordinate effectively between stakeholders, plan strategically, and motivate my peers to succeed.

Receiving the Student Leaders Award further validated the impact of my contributions and underscored the growth I achieved in my leadership journey. Collectively, these experiences have profoundly shaped my ability to lead, manage complex projects, and foster a collaborative environment, preparing me for future challenges and opportunities in the tech industry.

Career experiences

Opting to intern at Hiverlab during my third-year first semester was a strategic move to bridge academic knowledge with practical experience. Recognising the absence of mandatory internships in our programme, I sought hands-on experience to enhance my career prospects and deepen my understanding of real-world technological applications.

At Hiverlab, I was immersed in a dynamic team where I contributed to developing backend architecture for an advanced Web AR project, deployed machine learning models, and refined chatbot prompt engineering. This role provided invaluable exposure to the practical impact of AI technologies, aligning perfectly with my goal of using technology to streamline processes and enhance lives. The experience was both exhilarating and enlightening, solidifying my commitment to pursuing a career where I can harness technology to drive innovation and positive change.

Future aspirations

Upon completing my degree, I am eager to delve into the realm of software engineering with a focus on crafting impactful AI-driven solutions. My forthcoming traineeship at Foodpanda represents a pivotal step in this journey, offering me hands-on experience and a deeper understanding of real-world applications. I am passionate about leveraging technology to address complex problems and refine everyday processes.

In the long term, I aspire to advance toward the vision that initially sparked my curiosity: using technology to improve life for everyone. The question I often ponder – “How can we use technology to transform mundane tasks into automated efficiencies?” – remains central to my career ambitions.

By pursuing innovative AI-driven projects and spearheading initiatives that enhance everyday life, I aim to contribute meaningfully to this vision. I am excited to build upon my experiences and continue exploring ways to answer this question through technology and innovation.

Advice and reflections

If I had to encapsulate my time at SIM-UOL in a single word, it would be “revolutionising.” The confluence of immersive hands-on learning experiences and extensive leadership opportunities has fundamentally transformed my personal and professional trajectory. Reflecting on my journey, I recognise how each opportunity – whether diving into challenging coursework, spearheading dynamic hackathons, or engaging with vibrant student clubs – has profoundly contributed to my development.

To both current and prospective students, my heartfelt advice is to seize every opportunity that comes your way. When the chance presents itself, embrace it wholeheartedly and make the most of it. Immerse yourself fully in your experiences, be proactive, and leverage the resources and opportunities available. Each experience, no matter how small, plays a crucial role in shaping your path and unlocking new possibilities.

For those passionate about Computer Science and AI, SIM-UOL provides an unparalleled environment for exploration and success. It has been the ideal platform for me to delve into my passion, and I am confident it will offer the same transformative experience for you.