How 6 internships, 4 hackathons, and CCAs paved the way for Ashley

Ashley Ong, a recent SIM graduate who recently obtained a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from University at Buffalo unveils the pivotal role SIM played in shaping her career and personal growth.

Six Internships: Crafting a Path to Clarity

Ashley embarked on a remarkable journey of self-discovery through six strategically chosen internships. From corporate giants IBM and Porsche to a startup experience at The Meteor Lab under ST Logistics and finally Amazon, Ashley's diverse internships experience were self-sourced. She emphasizes the importance of students proactively seeking internships in aiding their career.
In Ashley's words, "My internships strongly contributed to my personal growth. I've dabbled in many different industries and figured out what I liked and disliked. I'm very sure of what I want to be and how I want to start after graduating."

A Holistic Development with SIM 

Ashley highlights the soft skills she gained during her internships - effective communication, problem-solving, and teamwork. On top of that, representing SIM in intervarsity volleyball and serving as president of SIM Innovation and Networking Society (IONS) contributed tremendously to her personal growth. 

Hackathons: A Gateway to Global Collaboration

Ashley participated in four hackathons during her four-year journey at SIM, with the Microsoft Global Hackathon being the most memorable. This experience allowed her to collaborate with individuals from different countries, providing a unique perspective on global problem-solving. The experience was made extra memorable by juggling a full-time internship at the same time, demonstrating her commitment and work ethic.

3 Key Success Factors in clinching a dream job

“It comes down to three things – your resume, your cover letter, and your interview.” Ashley lists what she thinks are the top 3 factors in successfully navigating the job market. Tailoring each application and practicing for interviews in advance are crucial steps in standing out.

Advice for SIM Undergraduates: Dream Big, Stay Motivated

“Be sure to highlight all your achievements in school and be very convincing and proud of your accomplishments.” Internships, hackathons, CCAs, and part-time jobs experiences culminated in Ashley becoming the valedictorian. She encourages students to dream big and emphasizes that success is not limited by one's background but by one's determination and mindset.

Shaping Futures, Empowering Dreams

Ashley's remarkable journey at SIM stands as a testament to the institution's unwavering commitment to delivering a holistic education that transcends traditional textbooks. Recently crowned as the valedictorian, Ashley epitomizes the attainable success that stems from unwavering dedication, hard work, and the nurturing educational environment fostered by SIM

As an international student, you, too, can have an enriching educational journey in SIM. Reach out to us and discover how you can emulate her success. Let us guide you on your path to a transformative education and a future filled with boundless possibilities. Your journey toward success starts here at SIM!

Watch the inspiring video from Ashley here