MDIS’ exemplary education standards are well-recognised as it was awarded the EduTrust Certification in 2010 and renewed for another four years in 2014. The wide variety of accredited courses that the institution offers in collaboration with highly acclaimed universities in Australia, France, the United Kingdom and the United States of America clearly reflects its educational excellence. Students from all walks of life are given the opportunity to realise their potential through their studies with MDIS.

One individual who lives up to MDIS’ core value of embracing life-long learning is Pheona Chua, a working mother with two children. With MDIS, Pheona attained a Bachelor of Arts (Hons) Business & Marketing (Top-up), awarded by the University of Sunderland (UK). Today, Pheona is the Senior Vice President of iGROW CorpHEALTH Pte Ltd, where she provides holistic consultancy services to enhance employees’ benefits, health and wellness. She shares with us how her education at MDIS has empowered her to excel at her work place.

Why did you choose to pursue your degree at MDIS?

Pheona Chua: MDIS offered a 12-month part-time programme that is largely assignment-based. As a working mother, I found the programme schedule and duration favourable. It provided great flexibility and allowed me to juggle work, family and studies. My lectures at MDIS were usually scheduled from 7pm to 10pm, and they were pretty evenly spaced out. That was perfect for me since it ensured minimal disruption to my lifestyle and work commitments. The assignment-based programme at MDIS was another advantage as it saved me the hassle of having to study long hours for exams.

Pheona Chua
Senior Vice President
iGROW CorpHEALTH Pte Ltd

Bachelor of Arts (Hons) Business & Marketing (Top-up), awarded by the University of Sunderland (UK) at MDIS

Any thoughts on the school culture at MDIS?

Pheona: My fellow coursemates come from diverse backgrounds. This provided valuable opportunities for me to interact with people from all walks of life and broaden my networks. Furthermore, the campus is well-equipped with various facilities, such as lecture theatres, a resource hub (library), student communal area and computer labs. It is truly a conducive environment for learning.

What learning opportunities did you enjoy at MDIS?

Pheona: I received ample learning opportunities from MDIS’ Blackboard Learning Management system. For example, I could stream recorded lectures and access learning resources such as course notes and supplementary readings anywhere and at any time. When I faced challenges in learning, I turned to the online discussion forum which facilitated peer collaboration. Essentially, this platform made it convenient and effective for me to learn. Apart from that, having a group of dedicated lecturers at MDIS who enthusiastically shared their industry experiences also helped me to glean deep insights. When I require clarification on concepts or have questions about assignments, the lecturers were always approachable through phone and email. Last but not least, the assignment-based assessments provided room for me to think innovatively and creatively.

Tell us about your job scope at iGROW CorpHEALTH Pte Ltd.

Pheona: I lead a team of consultants to provide consultancy services primarily to mid- and large-sized corporate companies. Essentially, we seek to positively impact workplaces and optimise employee engagement through our avant-garde solutions.

Share with us learnings from your programme that have served useful in your workplace.

Pheona: Completing modules such as marketing strategy, consumer psychology and strategic management has definitely allowed me to hone my business and analytical skills – both essential in making good business decisions. Furthermore, the in-depth research skills I have acquired through this programme have helped me excel in identifying new market segments, a crucial step in my company’s growth strategy.

Do you have any advice for prospective MDIS students?

Pheona: It is definitely a choice worth considering. I was pleasantly surprised that this programme had allowed me to make a smooth transition back to studying even after a ten-year hiatus. In the pursuit of knowledge, it is never “too late” to learn. Apart from gaining an amazing learning experience, this degree has given me an edge in my career. Having completed the degree with first-class honours as a working mother, I strongly believe that anyone – with sheer determination – can do the same.