International reputation a selling point 2006-05-26 WITH a PhD in biological science from Louis Pasteur University in France, Carole Alice Welsch started her career in biology with a desire to find cures for human diseases.
While working as a professional research fellow at the National Cancer Center in Singapore, she decided to pursue an MBA to acquire management and financial skills to better manage the business of science.
Welsch completed her MBA in 2005, making the dean's list for outstanding scholastic achievement.
Currently, she is working as a senior scientist at Vanda Pharmaceuticals, an international drug company, in Singapore.
Welsch said she decided to pursue an MBA as like any other industry, the field of biological sciences had a strong need for creative and competent managers with a solid understanding of the financial nuances that propel the business.
To realize her goal, she chose the Nanyang MBA program from the business school at Singapore's Nanyang Technological University.
"Being a research scientist, besides having a good understanding of the scientific process, it was also important to acquire business knowledge and management skills," she said.
"I chose the Nanyang MBA because of its international reputation and diversity. This was evident in its faculty and student body. The program offered me a global perspective with an Asian focus. The curriculum gave me the flexibility to tailor courses to meet my career objectives and acquire the skills required for my next career move in the pharmaceutical industry."
Welsch said Singapore was currently making large strides in developing life sciences, making it an exciting place to work and learn. As she planned to continue her career in Asia, the Nanyang MBA had prepared her well for any challenges ahead.
"The breadth and depth of business studies can be as complicated as the body's biochemical pathways," she admitted. "I was initially shocked by the amount of work that was required to learn so many subjects. It was, however, gratifying to realize that with dedication I excelled.
"The interactive and case-based learning approach gave me the opportunity to lead and at the same time, be able to work in a team. The highly-international student body also enriched my learning experience with their diverse cultural, intellectual and management perspectives."
She offered a few tips for MBA applicants.
"Do a self assessment to understand your career objectives, aspirations and growth potential. And be prepared for a rigorous program that is demanding in terms of one's academic ability as well as time commitment.
"When considering an MBA, think beyond your immediate career ambitions, considering the intangible values you will also be gaining." |
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