Student Stories

Advancing My Career Through Lifelong Learning

As an Assistant Facilities Manager, I manage the day-to-day maintenance, operation and upkeep of my company’s building and facilities. My role covers maintenance works, projects, contractor coordination, quotation checking, recommending practical solutions to resolve issues and managing tenant enquiries. I am also responsible for renewing government statutory licences for the building I manage.

What I enjoy most about my role is resolving problems and dealing with different issues every day. No two days are exactly the same, and these experiences allow me to gain valuable knowledge and develop skills that I can apply to future situations.

Working in facilities management requires a combination of hands-on experience, basic engineering knowledge and an understanding of areas such as plumbing, air-conditioning and statutory requirements. Good customer service, vendor and project management skills are also important, as I work closely with different stakeholders, vendors and tenants. Communication is especially important to ensure that everyone is aligned and that projects and works are carried out properly.

My Learning Journey with Coventry University at PSB Academy

I was looking for an opportunity to further develop myself professionally when I came across the Master’s programme offered by Coventry University at PSB Academy. What caught my attention was that the programme provided an opportunity for me to pursue a Master’s degree without having a prior degree. I found the programme appealing and decided to take the opportunity to further my education.

Before making my decision, I browsed through multiple websites and made enquiries with several institutions. I eventually chose PSB Academy because of its good reputation and the helpful support I received from the course advisor throughout the enquiry process.

The Professional Advancement Grant also helped to ease some of the financial considerations involved in pursuing a Master’s degree. This gave me greater confidence in taking the step to further my education while continuing to work.

Balancing work and part-time studies can be hectic at times, but I understand that this comes with being a working professional and a part-time student. I appreciate having breaks in between the different stages of the programme, as they give me time to regroup and manage my work and studies.

One of the things I value most about the programme is the broader understanding of business that I have developed. I now have a better understanding of how business decisions are made and how leaders and management approach decision-making. This has given me a different perspective that I can apply to my current working environment.

I have also come across lecturers who genuinely wanted to help students and were passionate about teaching. One lecturer who made a memorable impression on me was Mr Edward Cheong who teachs the module, Organisational Behaviour. His passion for the subject and willingness to support students made the learning experience particularly meaningful.

Over the years, I have come to believe that career progression is not based solely on education. Experience and opportunities are equally important, and it is also about building relationships and knowing the right people. However, I believe continuing to learn and develop yourself can open you up to new opportunities.

For me, pursuing my Master’s with Coventry University at PSB Academy has been an opportunity to build on my existing professional experience while gaining a broader understanding of business and leadership.