Lorraine Lai (Class of 2008), is Regional and Marketing Manager at Grab

After graduating from the Department of Geography, I started my career at the Singapore Tourism Board where it was exciting to be part of developing the first integrated resorts in Singapore.

"Subsequently, I landed myself marketing roles at Standard Chartered, Google and now Grab. My work has taken on a regional function, which means I lead the brand direction of a product, whilst working closely with in-country marketing teams to execute localised marketing initiatives.

I love the regional nature of my marketing role because I get to work with colleagues from different geographies and cultures. While I guide local marketing teams on the brand vision of an overall product and ensure they are aligned across markets, I appreciate the efficacy of localised marketing initiatives, all thanks to an education rooted in Geography and the social sciences.

Being part of the Geography Honours class of 2008 remains one of my fondest memories of being part of FASS! Exam periods were the most memorable part of my NUS experience: from studying through the night, to late night prata suppers and “choping” (reserving) seats in the Central Library for study sessions.

My FASS education helped me to think analytically, to structure and crystallise thoughts and ideas, and present them in writing or in speech effectively. That is largely what a marketer’s job is about—presenting ideas persuasively. But for a marketer to do this successfully, one must know the targeted audience. Studying the social sciences and humanities enables one to consider the joys, gaps and problems that humanity experiences. Only when equipped with this knowledge can we then find solutions to address real human needs.

Finding your dream job may not be straightforward but I encourage you to stay curious, learn beyond your comfort zone, and stretch all possibilities!"

Wei Seng (Class of 2015), is Manager at the Airport Development and Planning Division, Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS)

Geography is a subject that engages with the world and its (human and non-human) inhabitants In variety of ways, from the maps that we use, to the human and physical landscapes that we see, experience, shape, and are shaped by.

"I studied Geography during my pre-university years but I grew to further understand and appreciate the diversity of Geography only when I entered NUS. You can study and relate to literally “everything under the sun, including the sun itself” (a quote by one of our professors). I enjoyed my time in NUS, especially in Geography where the modules, lecturers, research and friends all contributed to a great experience. I especially appreciated learning outside the classroom through engaging in fieldwork and the opportunity to go on student exchange to King’s College London in 2013.

In my first year at FASS, I joined Students Against Violation of the Earth (SAVE), an environmental student group in NUS. I managed the implementation of Singapore’s first plastic bag tax as Project Director, before taking on the role of Vice-President (Projects) to look after the multifaceted projects that SAVE ran. I later stayed on as a mentor to guide and support my peers and juniors in their endeavours. There is a strong relationship between SAVE and Geography; what I learnt in class was applicable to my work in SAVE and vice-versa.

I started my career at the Singapore Aviation Academy (SAA), a division of CAAS. I was involved in a wide portfolio, from strategic and corporate planning for SAA, to partnership and business development with partners and prospective customers. My training as a Geographer allowed a deeper appreciation of the complexities of the political and sociocultural contexts of the countries where my customers came from. The training also helped me to interact and build bridges with partners and customers. As a Geographer you are trained to think inclusively, write eloquently, embrace diversity, be open-minded, and hear the voices from the ground.

In my current division at Airport Development and Planning (ADP), I am involved in land-use planning both within and around the airport, and regarding the environmental sustainability of airport infrastructure. Though I did not have prior knowledge on the technical aspects of airport operations and infrastructure, the concepts and perspectives gleaned from a geographic education continue to remain relevant, particularly with respect to spatial awareness and understanding (environmental) sustainability.

Aviation is inherently geographical and international, especially in a Singaporean context. I have thoroughly enjoyed my work in CAAS and find it meaningful to safeguard Singapore’s aviation interests, and contribute to the development and growth of our aviation sector."