Rachel Tan Yen Lyn
Name: Rachel Tan Yen Lyn
Age: 28
Nationality: Malaysian
Bachelor of Communication
Tell us briefly about your work or role in your current organisation.
I lead the marketing efforts for Shopee, a start-up under a parent company, Garena, that is the leading m-Commerce social mobile marketplace. As the Head of Marketing, I oversee all PR, partnerships, media relations, social media and content strategy, campaigns planning as well as events and all artwork for our communication to both buyers and sellers for the platform. Prior to this, I was the Country Manager for Southeast Asia’s leading blogging community, Nuffnang, and served the business for 6 years.
How has your study in Monash Malaysia helped to prepare you for the working world?
The study experience in Monash Malaysia has given me the opportunity to learn practical skills during my time in the student association (MUSA), while the subjects are relatable to what I am currently doing, the student experience has taught me to be more resilient and adaptable to change.
While at Monash what type of opportunities did you participate in?
I was the Activities Chairperson for MUSA in 2009 and have organised multiple events for the students in the Malaysia campus which includes the Orientation Bash at Port Dickson, Monash Talent Night, Monash Ball, Music Festival and many more contributions during my time as part of the council. It has taught me to deal with stress, real life planning and execution. I am also honoured to partake in cultural nights organised by MUISS as well as being the winner of Miss Monash Malaysia in 2008.
When you were choosing a course and a university did you have a clear picture of your future (and if so what was it)?
I was 17 when I decided I wanted to study in Monash. I love communicating, broadcasting and anything that requires me to deal with people. Hence, when given the opportunity, I jumped right into the foundation program (MUFY) before pursuing my degree.
Whilst at Monash, did you have any industry exposure/placements? How has it made a difference to your own life or the life of others around you? Did it consolidate what you have learned from your undergraduate course?
I did not have any industry exposure or placements. It wasn’t a necessary requirement for the course. However, I was actively participating in various activities, clubs, and societies like MUSA, Dance fusion and many others which gave me exposure and helped increase my self-confidence.
What was it about Monash that made you select this university in the first place?
Monash is a well-known university, being one of the tops in the world. It was the option for exchange at any campuses across other countries that made me pick this institution. I was also glad to be the pioneer at its new Sunway campus back then.
What do you love most about your student life at Monash?
My student life at Monash was memorable because of all the people I’ve gotten to know while studying there. Not forgetting the many experiences that I’ve gained while being on the student council and organising multiple events and being involved. It is definitely one of the most memorable time of my life.