AY 18/19 Semester 2

The last semester of my DDP program has concluded. This semester was really stressful and painful, and yet I really enjoyed it as well. Once again, my timetable looks surprisingly good for 30MCs, but trust me, it is nowhere near easy! I once thought that level 1000 and 2000 classes were hard and that it would get easier with time. Well, the truth is that it never does get easier. You just get better at managing heavier workload, so don't worry too much about it because it always works out in the end. Nevertheless, this semester consisted of 7 modules, all filled with projects and group work, making it all the more challenging.

BSP3001 Strategic Management

General overview: This module explores frameworks to analyze business decisions and strategy formulation. Real life cases after cases are used to analyze companies who succeeded and failed under the lens of various frameworks. Students will be able to appreciate how strategy can be developed and how to evaluate business strategies.

Format: This module is graded through an individual strategy critique paper (30%), a group based video presentation (40%) and class participation (30%). The individual strategy critique paper requires individuals to research a particular framework, highlight its weaknesses and propose ways to improve on it, with a reference company as context. On the other hand, the video presentation is a group project where students identify a company of interest with a particular business decision to be made and apply all the concepts taught in class to evaluate and decide on the best course of action.

My opinion: It was a really enriching module that was engaging and fun to be in. The class is all about analyzing real-life company issues and discussing them in class so you have to read up before class or try your hand at smoking some concepts to participate in class discussion. I really liked how we get to witness the rigor behind a company decision-making process and try our hands at it through our group project. Most people take this class overseas, but it really is quite useful and insightful.

Difficulty: Medium
Grade obtained: A

FIN3118 Financial Risk Management

General overview: An extension from FIN3103, this module basically zooms in on the risk management aspect of a financial institution (or bank). You get an understanding of the various concepts and tools used by financial institutions to manage risk in the business. This includes key concepts such as value-at-risk, fund transfer pricing, risk-adjusted return on capital (RAROC), credit risk, market risk, operational risk, liquidity risk, collateralized debt obligations, credit score, regulatory reforms and more.

Format: Grading consists of 2 closed book term test (2x 30%) and one group project (term paper  [30%] + presentation [10%])

My opinion: A good module if you are looking to learn about how financial institutions manage risk in the business. This is especially relevant post-2008, where regulatory concerns regarding risk management are at an all-time high. These concepts are the backbone upon which financial institutions base their risk management tools on. I found it slightly dry as I wasn't very interested in this area of finance but it could be useful to understand some of the concepts if you are heading towards the finance industry. Workload-wise, it is rather relaxing as you basically do nothing but study for two term tests and work on one project.

Difficulty: Easy-Medium
Grade obtained: A-

FIN4112 Applied Portfolio Management Techniques

General overview: This class is extremely intense and super challenging. Probably the hardest finance module I have taken in NUS Business School but really insightful and comprehensive. The module is taught by a very talented Professor Richard Yeh, completely in excel. It serves as a deep-dive into the quantitative techniques available and how they can be applied in portfolio management in the investment management industry. It takes on a risk-management approach to building a fund and imparts robust techniques if you are interested in this industry. You would be learning many different advanced technical methodologies so a typical business student would tend to avoid this class. In fact, the class size was only 20ish after week 2 (10+ students drop the class after the first two lessons).

Format: There is a mid-term test (30%) completely in excel (you submit your answer as an excel macro workbook - yes you need some coding). In addition, there is a homework assignment after EVERY class (20% in total) based on what is taught in class. These homework assignments are also submitted in excel workbooks and give severe head trauma every week. At the end of the course, you will be grouped to complete a group project together (40%) where you have to pitch a fund to a table of professional investors. Finally, class participation (10%) is also included.

My opinion: If you have a heavy semester (like me), this is a big warning sign for you to reconsider. Unless you are really interested in learning and giving your 110%. I almost failed my midterms (I got 50/100) even though I consistently followed through each class and put in the effort. I really love the classes as it was imparting practical skills and techniques rather than learning concepts after concepts in a typical finance class. Finance, after all, is not a spectator sport. You will be expected to use value stocks and companies, and put them in a portfolio using risk management techniques. If you miss any class, you are basically screwed because EVERY class is important and useful. If you think you are smart, willing to work hard, and want to learn useful quantitative techniques, this is the module for you.

Difficulty: REALLY HARD
Grade obtained: B+

FIN4113 Personal Finance and Wealth Management

General overview: A super practical class on managing YOUR finances. You will learn the ins-and-outs of financial planning in the context of Singapore. This includes concepts such as income taxes, CPF, housing finance (HDB, EC, Private property), car financing, Insurance planning, available investment products options and strategies. If you think that most of the classes in school are not useful in your life after college, this is probably one of the best ones to take because IT IS RELEVANT.

Format: This module consists of a final test (30%), a group assignment (25%), a group project (30%) and 15% worth of class participation. The group assignment comprises of a series of questions (open ended and closed ended) in relation to concepts taught in class and requires an extension from what is taught in class (it is not just a simple homework assignment). Each group is also assigned a topic to research and present to the class on the last two weeks. You are allowed a cheat sheet for the final quiz.

My opinion: The class is very useful and relevant to every individual because we all have to manage our finances one way or another. It is not very difficult to follow classes and the concepts are engaging. Professor Zhang Wei Qi makes discussions really free and easy, and a joy to partake in. It felt more like a personal improvement workshop rather than a class to clear, which is how learning should be like.

Difficulty: Easy
Grade obtained: A+

Cheatsheet for finals

FiN4123 FinTech Management

General overview: If you are interested in current and upcoming technologies that are changing the face of finance, this is the class for you. Concepts that are covered are constantly changing each semester to keep with the times, so it would probably be different for you. Nonetheless, during this semester, we get introduced to concepts such as blockchain, encryption, distributed applications and smart contracts, cryptocurrencies, big data, AI and machine learning, neural networks, natural language processing (NLP) and more.

Format: This module consists of two closed book MCQ quizzes (30% each), one group project (30%) and class participation (10%). The group projects basically involve 1 presentation at the end of the semester where you have to work in a group to pitch an innovative business idea that incorporates current technologies that are changing the industry.

My opinion: Professor Aaron Low taught this class really well, and you get a comprehensive introduction to the current trends in the market. He is well positioned in the finance industry to keep a pulse on the latest happenings in the market and learning from him has been a privilege. Finance is changing drastically, and this class exposes students to what's out there. Moving away from traditional finance that could be possibly outdated, this class gives a taste of how technology and finance blend in an inspiring fashion.

Difficulty: Easy
Grade obtained: A-

Field Service Project + System Design Project

Over my fourth year in my DDP program, I was involved in Field Service Project (Biz) and System Design Project (Engineering). It felt like two part-time internships, albeit less strenuous than an actual internship. The purpose of both of this was to give students real-world practical experience and contributes to a significant amount of MCs for students.

FSP4003 Field Service Project (8MCs)

Thoughts before: Working with a startup focusing on the financial industry on how to gamify the risk assessment process

General overview: This is basically a part-time internship with a company, to help them with a project over 1 or 2 semesters (depending on your project). Depending on the topic and the company, you could be doing marketing, financial modeling, research or really anything else under the sun. You could also propose a project with a company you have contacts in (perhaps from your previous internship). It attempts to expose you to the real world, but being business students, I'm pretty sure you already have internships under your belt at this point in time. Nonetheless, gaining more experiences is always a plus.

Format: Final team report (45%), presentation to the company (25%), peer review (10%), learning journal (20%). Basically, listen to your company and professor and put in the effort to deliver above expectations and you'll score well.

My opinion: A good module that gives an avenue for students to learn and apply new skills in an unstructured environment. I was attached to a financial startup, making things even more unstructured. Our project was basically to study the methods used to evaluate risk behaviors and come up with a model to classify risk appetite. We basically had to study tons of behavioral theories and decided to settle on cumulative prospect theory proposed by Amos Tversky and Daniel Kahneman. Thereafter, we build a game prototype and tested it on various participants and came up with several models based upon machine learning algorithms. A very technical project for my team and me but it was really fun and we enjoyed the process (We all had an engineering background so it was good). 

Difficulty: Medium

Grade obtained: A+

IE3100 Systems Design Project (12MCs)

Thoughts before: Coding coding coding

General overview: Similar to the Field Service Project, this is somewhat a year-long internship with a company as well. Supposedly, we are to apply what we have learned in ISE to the project and value-add to a company that is assigned to us.

Format: Interim report (10%), Final component (90%). 

The final component consists of individual working attitude (15%), project execution and achievement (25%), oral presentation (10%), report writing (15%), case study & teaching notes (15%), project poster (5%), video (5%).

My opinion: Good idea, horrible execution. I was looking forward to this module seeing that I was not involved in vacation internship project or industrial attachment (You get to skip this as a double degree student). I initially thought it was a good avenue to apply ISE concepts in a meaningful project. However, the professor in charge of this project was unclear about how he wanted to run this project, and what the deliverables were. He basically wanted us to cold call (yes, like those annoying sales calls you get from time to time) random companies to launch his own business ideas. Did not really learn much, if at all, and mostly spend the time doing a lot of random stuff that is not ISE related.

Difficulty: Nil

Grade obtained: B+

AY18/19 - Semester 1

The semester has been rather jam-packed and taking 50% more workload than the average student is definitely not a painless process. Just as a reference, these will be the classes I am taking! The initial idea is to clear my classes in 4.5years, so the sudden decision to graduate in 4 years resulted in my packed schedule. As a result, I have to do 30MCs for the upcoming 2 semesters. Some of you might ask why? Well, the reason is pretty straightforward. A year more of income + a year less of tuition fees + faster advancement in career.

p.s. My timetable doesn't look that ridiculous. Most of the business modules are quite light in terms of hours and FSP was not reflected here, so it looks like a decent semester. 

Anyways, the reviews for modules taken are as follows!

BSP2005 Asian Business Environment
Thoughts before: Really keen to learn more about how the business environment in Asia and how companies can thrive in such an environment. Hopefully, I can get to understand how to do business in Asia, which would help if I want to do a startup (know how to scale to the rest of Asia), or even in a company (how to access and thrive in other Asian markets).

General overview: This module is really interesting and gives a great perspective to the Asian business environment (as the name suggests). It introduces different angles to look at businesses and how it can thrive in the countries it does businesses in. These include PEST (political, economic, social, technological) factors and how various factors gel together to aid/hinder the growth of a business.

Format: This module consists of a 1X 2hrs lecture (which is webcasted = less commitment), and 1X 1hrs tutorial. Grading consists of tutorial participation (10%), 2 case presentations during tutorial timing (10% + 25%), and a final exam (55%).

My opinion: The case presentation was good as you get to work in teams to study the environment of a real business and suggest strategic directions moving forward (Strategy consulting kind of work). Teams would present their ideas and analysis to the tutorial classes, but the TA which grades your work and asks questions seem to have a fixed answer in their minds. But between your presentations, you basically have nothing to do (workload is great). Lectures were insightful and filled with real examples which gave detailed context but could have been slightly more organized. Finals was basically a 100 MCQs which seems easy, but very tricky.

Difficulty: Medium
Grade obtained: A-

MNO2009 Entrepreneurship 
Thoughts before: Really want to understand the best way to think as an entrepreneur and how to identify business opportunities through the various framework.

General overview: Module gives a framework to understand how a startup should be structured, and how it can be lean and effective. The first half of the module is very theoretical but it does shed some lights on how to structure a startup for success. It shares some ideas on identifying opportunities, and how VCs might select a startup based on their traction and performance. The second half focused more on developing a business idea and pitching the idea to the professor as well as a group of VCs (real industry professionals) for a taste of how the real pitching would be like. It was rather interesting to experience doing so, although not much relevance to the first half.

Format: Classes was made up with 1X 2hrs lecture (No webcast) and 1X 1hrs tutorial. Grades were determined based on an individual assignment (42.5%), a group assignment (42.5%) and class participation (15%).

My opinion: Good module that provides some framework to help structure a startup to perform better. The execution was not that great, but seeing that it is teaching about entrepreneurship, there is no easy way to execute it.

Difficulty: Easy-Medium
Grade obtained: B+



FIN3103 Financial Markets
Thoughts before: Understand the different components that make up the financial market and how to navigate it.

General overview: This class introduces the various aspects of the financial market and how it works. This includes a brief introduction to financial institutions and their role in the economy, as well as bank risk management to prevent their demise. It also includes an introduction to the debt market instruments, focusing on Singapore's debt market. In addition, the equity market is briefly explored with regards to its instruments and technicalities of the market (tick size, odd lot trading, taxes, margin trading, etc.). Lastly, the foreign exchange market and the derivatives market are also introduced.

Format: This module consists of 4 assessment components. Firstly, there are two closed book exams with no cheat sheet- term test (30%) and a final test (25%). There is also a group project (30%) where you work in groups to research and present an assigned topic related to the course in both a written report as well as a presentation. Finally, class participation takes up 15% of the overall grade.

My opinion: A decent introduction to the world of finance in terms of the different markets and how it is structured. Not too much math or technical background needed to navigate this class, hence I don't see much commitment for it. Quite a relaxing module to take, only requiring some effort for the tests and project when they are due.

Difficulty: Easy-Medium
Grade obtained: A-

FIN4122 Entrepreneurial Finance
Thoughts before: Understand how to value a startup and the factors to consider as CAPM and typical assessment criteria would not apply to startups.

General overview: A good class on how to navigate financially as a startup by understanding how startups are valued and how to make sure you don't run out of money. You get to understand how financing and valuation work from both the startup perspective and the VC's perspective. In terms of the startup perspective, you'll understand how to manage cash flow properly by paying attention to key metrics in business. In terms of the VC's perspective, you'll see how they choose companies and value them. More importantly, this class also explores the various considerations in a funding round, what they mean, and their implication for both a VC as well as a startup.

Format: 1 Group project (40%), 1 individual tests (30%), Class participation (30%)

My opinion: This was my favorite class of the semester and one of the most refreshing classes during my time as a business undergraduate. I was always interested in entrepreneurship and this class delivers fundamental concepts to navigate the world of financing. It brings a rare insight into the world of Venture Capital funds by putting students through a valuation process from identifying potential companies to fund, to doing due diligence, and finally building and negotiating a term sheet (offer to the startup). The class is split into groups who take on the role of startup and venture capitalist throughout the course, where they will get the opportunity to pitch, value and negotiate a contract. The final event would see two groups face off to negotiate the contract (Super tense and exciting - Venture Capital VS Startup), which could be really daunting. I loved the way in which the class was conducted, and the hands-on experience was unlike any other class.

Difficulty: Medium

Grade obtained: A+

IE4102 Independent Study Module
Thoughts before: Mini thesis on predicting flight prices.

General overview: Essentially a thesis module, you can either choose a topic of interest and propose to a professor, or ask a professor to give you a topic to study. Since it is a mini-thesis of sorts, expectations are slightly lower, but the deliverables are more or less the same.

Format: It consists of two parts - class attendance (5%) which had 3 lectures throughout the whole semester and project assessment (95%). Project assessment consisted of working attitude (15%), research methodology (20%), project execution and achievement (20%), report writing (20%) and final oral presentation (20%). In other words, put in the effort and make sure your professor acknowledges your work and you'll be fine.

My opinion: I was pretty busy throughout the semester and did not put much effort into this so I'm quite happy with the grade and what I've done. I contacted a couple of professor with my research topic of interest and basically did my own work throughout the module. My topic was on developing an automated flight price scrapping program along with building a flight price prediction model based on millions of data points. Pretty flexible module to apply your ISE concepts!

Difficulty: Depends
Grade obtained: B+


NOTE: Field Service Project and System Design Project were done throughout year 4 and is in a seperate post

AY 17/18 Semester 2 - Georgia Institute of Technology

So this was the semester that I went for an student exchange program (SEP) to USA. Perhaps one of the most chill semester ever, and I got the chance to travel without being so worried about exams or my grades! Being on exchange with many bright minds from ISE as well as NUS and NTU, there were many motivated students who wanted to seize the opportunity to learn more from their US education system. They took on 6-7 modules and overloaded in an attempt to clear more classes and map these back to NUS. As a result of peer pressure and also because I wanted to learn more as well, I took on 6 modules (The normal student takes 4 modules in the US). As a result, most of us were constrained by our timetable and could not travel as flexibly as we wanted to. So, please know your priorities when going on exchange!

This post will simply run through the classes I did briefly, as it is not as applicable to NUS.

PUBP4140 Leadership --> MNO2007 (NUS)
This was a module on leadership and taught by a very enthusiastic teacher. Assessment was done three ways: Reading a book on leadership and coming up with a poster as a team (33%), Reading another book on leadership and applying it to a particular organization that we are involved in (33%), Doing up journal entries based on the lessons in class and how it relates to our leadership journey (33%).

This module introduces some of the concepts relating to productivity, leadership types and traits, and some of the framework and leading ideas regarding leadership. It was a very different module that promoted learning and self development, and gave opportunities for improvement in whatever organization we were in. Unfortunately, as I wasn't actively involved in many organizations while in US, I couldn't apply most of what I learnt. However, the lessons learnt here and the tools I take back were helpful and contributed to the reflective and prioritizing process when I got back. It was truly refreshing.

MGT4450 Project Management --> IE4240 (NUS) 
This module introduces concepts related to managing a project, as well as some tools used in managing projects (Gantt Chart, critical path, etc). Generally boring class, but the tools can be applicable if you are taking on project manager roles. The class was conducted such that grades were determined mostly from quizzes and a group project. If you can memorize, this class will be a walk in the park for you. I only starting chugging down materials the day before the quiz and manage to do well!

CS4400 Database Management --> IE4604 (NUS)
This module introduces the language of SQL, and designing the database of a typical relational database model. A really refreshing module for me after learning the operational languages of programming (C, C++, Java) and coding up functions. This module introduces how data is stored and how it would be retrieved, etc. There are a multitude of database designs today, and this class of relational database is slightly outdated, but it provides a good introduction to database designs which can be applicable to newer ideas of databases. I used this for my internship when I got back too, so that was useful!

MGT3084 Financial Derivatives --> FIN3116 (NUS)
This module introduces concepts used to value derivative securities such as your put/call options. Concepts such as Black-Scholes model, binomial option pricing as well as application to valuing options (option to sell off project if it fails, or option to expand, etc) was introduced. We used Matlab to run simulation models and derive a fair share value for derivatives. We also learned the idea of replicating portfolio to hedge risks as well. Altogether, it was a demanding module that introduces new ways of valuation as compared to the typical CAPM model. Very refreshing, although the professor that taught this class was slightly poor at communicating his ideas.

ISYE3103 Supply Chain Modelling --> IE4220 (NUS)
This module introduces many algorithms and tools related to optimizing supply chain processes. This included EOQ models for multiple facilities and assembly systems, shortest path problems in transportation, minimum cost network flow model as well as travelling salesman problems. This class introduces in-depth modelling and some of the leading algorithms that used to optimize network problems. A very applicable module that can add value to an organization. Rigorous and applicable class.

ISYE4031 Regression Forecasting --> IE4505 (NUS)
This module focuses on the idea of advanced regression models that is built to predict outcomes. A very industrial model based on statistics that can be applied to many of the world's problems. Although statistics has some severe drawbacks (confounding, causation vs correlation, etc), this module is pretty useful in the realm of statistics and develops on basic statistics that I've learn in ISE.

You will be able to build multiple regression models and even non-linear models to predict the outcome of a particular phenomenon. This class includes concepts such as residual analysis, time series regression, exponential smoothing and box-jenkins models. I will be using most of this concepts for my mini-thesis this upcoming semester so it was really helpful for me!


Advice: Please do something else besides studying!
Apart from studying, I also did quite a bit of travelling around US and Canada. Places include: Vegas, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Chicago, Boston, Miami, Florida, New York and Toronto. It made my whole exchange program experience very rich and enjoyable. So please take time off studies and expand your perspective on life if it is something you want. You probably won't regret it.

AY 17/18 Semester 1

HAPPY NEW YEAR beautiful people. Kicking the new year with another post on the semester that just passed while I'm here in the US preparing for my exchange semester to Georgia Institute of Technology :) The past semester was a business-focused semester for me, and I took 4 business modules and 2 ISE modules in total. I took two lv3000 finance modules which was pretty tough, but it was also really enjoyable to learn and practice valuation on actual data and stocks. Afterall, if we learn but don't apply, are we really learning? 

I also learnt that doing my cheatsheet on my laptop would allow me to squeeze more stuff inside so I started doing it all on my laptop. Thus, I've also included my cheatsheet for some of the stuff below! :) 

IE3110 – Simulation

This module is a 5MC module, with 2X 2hrs lecture and 1X 1hr tutorial (which is basically another hour of lecture since it is also taught in the LT). There is also 6 lab sessions throughout the semester, where a teaching assistant will teach students the various functions and tools in automod (simulation software). 

This module introduces the thinking steps taken in simulation and what it entails (input data, generating numbers, analysing data, validating data, and model formulation). It is a comprehensive and useful module to help students develop models based on statistics that mirror real life systems so that solutions/strategies can be tested before implementation. Assessments are as follows: midterms (15%), finals (50%), lab test (10%), group project (20%) and assignments (5%). The group project is on formulating a simulation model for a real-life problem/system and is where you apply what you’ve learn into something concrete. Many students focus a huge amount of time and effort into the group project but the grades that come back are more or less the same (8/10 to 9.5/10) so it might not be wise to focus so much on this. Focusing more on the other components would help get better grades. That being said, the project really helps to apply concepts to real-life systems and would help a lot with learning. My advice? Put effort into the project to learn, but don't stress too much on the outcome. It is a great module to take up, though relatively time consuming, but definitely worth a shot.

Difficulty: medium

Grade Obtained: A-

Cheatsheet for finals

IE3101 – Engineering Statistics

This is one of the worst module I have done in NUS, probably due to the way it was taught. It is a 4MC module with 1X 1hr lecture and 1X 2hr lecture, along with a 1X 1hr tutorial (which nobody ever goes for).

This module teaches about the statistics, with the context of applying it to engineering problems and systems. It consist of data communication (charts, bar plots, etc), hypothesis testing with z-test and t-test, designing and testing the validity of a model (linear and multi-linear), ANOVA (analysis of variance) control charts (X-bar and R charts) as well as process control (Cpk, etc). The content taught in this module gives a comprehensive understanding of how to validate and determine if a particular claim (equation, statement, etc) is statistically valid or not, based on the balance of probability and statistics (type 1 error and type 2 error). It repeats many of the previous module’s syllabus on control charts, SPC, hypothesis testing, etc but introduces some useful concepts such as ANOVA. Assessment is 40% group presentation and 60% finals. 

The professor decided to radically change the teaching format this semester, and divided the cohort into different presentation weeks. Essentially, students would have to read up the section that they are to present, and then present the material for the rest of the students to understand during each lecture time-slot. This means the professor fundamentally doesn’t teach much. Why come up with a module that the students just self-learn everything and the professor doesn't teach? I missed most of the lectures (except the one I had to present for) and just studied on my own by reading the textbook. The finals were just as ridiculous as the way the class was taught, and had little relevance to the material taught in class. 

Difficulty: medium

Grade obtained: B+

DSC2006 – Operations Management

This class is a 4MC module with 1X 2hrs lecture and 1X 1hr tutorial each week. Webcast was webcasted for the first half (taught by Qimei), but not the second half (taught by a new prof). This module introduces concepts related to process management, which includes things such as waiting time analysis, job scheduling, batch size management, control charts, process capability analysis, project scheduling, balanced transportation model, inventory management, capacity planning, lean management and supply chain management. 

It is basically an introduction to the various facets of process management, at an almost touch-and-go fashion. You will be able to appreciate the various uses of operations management, and is similar to ISE in many ways. Assessment is done through midterms (30%) , finals (60%) and class participation (10%). The good news is that both midterms and finals are 100% mcq based, so it made life so much easier. In addition, there is cheatsheet, so it makes the module much easier. All you have to learn is to apply the concepts 😊 Coming from ISE, many of the concepts are very easy to absorb and a less in-depth version of what I have learnt. As a result, I spend very little time on it. Many business students I met also felt that it was easy nonetheless. That means that bell-curve might be slightly higher, so do note. Altogether, a decent introductory module to learn about the different concepts involved in being an operations manager, though many of the formula derivation (which is based on statistics) was not covered.

Difficulty: Easy

Grade Obtained: A

Cheatsheet for finals 

BSP2001 – Macro and International Economics

This is a 4MC module with 1X 2hr lecture (webcasted) and 1X 1hr tutorial each week. The class teaches concepts to understand the macroeconomic system in the short run, the medium run as well as the long run using various models ranging from AS-AD model, IS-LM model to the international economics which includes exchange rate policy. Assessment is done through midterms (25%), finals (50%)and tutorial assignments and presentations (25%). 

Through this class, you will be able to better analyse and appreciate how the economy behaves in the SR,MR and LR in response to economic policies that governments implement. I was a little lazy and webcasted most of my lectures, but they were quite detailed and informative, and perhaps worth a shot. Concepts were difficult to grasp at first glance, so multiple re-reading of notes and practising on questions (tutorials, practise mcq) would help solidify understanding of the class. For tutorials, you would be divided into groups to present on one of the problem sets’ question in a casual fashion, so no stress! Mark, our tutorial teacher was very good at communicating ideas and concepts and did very well to help enhance understanding of the concepts. Class participation was very chill, and not forced at all. There is 4 problem sets spread throughout the 13weeks that counts towards the 25%, and working on it well would help in getting good grades. Bell curve for this module was not too competitive, as I think many of the questions were slightly tricky. Think fast and think carefully when answering questions for this module!

Difficulty: medium

Grade Obtained: A

FIN3101 – Corporate Finance

This is a 4MC module with 1X 3hrs sectionals each week, though the workload seems to be understated. The class introduces ideas about how to choose projects (capital budgeting), raising funds and the impact of these decisions, with different degree of leverage. This class also highlights the implication of taxes, choosing a dividend policy based on different corporate objectives and determining the value of mergers and acquisitions. Assessment is done through class participation (12%), 3 tutorial assessment (12%), 1 group based case study (20%), 2 group based case critique (6%) and 2 tests (20%+30%). 

Concepts were difficult to comprehend, and the class moves fast. Self directed learning is very important here, as you need to be familiar with valuation of companies (which is not a trivial affair). I had to spend much of my time learning different ideas and concepts online, so be prepared for many google searches. I liked the module as it helped with understanding various methods and ways to valuate a company, and might prove useful in determining a fair share price for a company. Many students in the class were quick and had prior knowledge, so be prepared to study hard for this just to keep up. Case study questions were not easy as well, but very useful as you are able to apply real concepts to real situations and valuate companies (I had to valuate the share price of an IPO). Altogether a recommended module, though not an easy one.

Difficulty: Hard

Grade Obtained: A

Cheatsheet for finals

FIN3102 – Investment analysis and Portfolio Management

This is a 4MC module with 1X 3hrs sectionals each week. This module introduces ideas on valuing assets and optimizing risk-reward ratio for a portfolio of various asset classes, as well as various methods in which assets are valued (technical analysis, fundamental analysis, relative valuation) and finally bond pricing. This class is assessed by class participation (10%), group project (25%), 2 tests (30%+30%) and a ethics test (5%). The assessment criteria varies across different professors, and mine was one of the more chill professor so take note! 

Concepts taught was very interesting for me, and helped with understanding how to valuate companies, and how to optimize a portfolio. In addition, bond pricing was something extra from FIN2004 that was insightful. The tests were not easy, but bell curve is not that steep, so just make sure you understand the concepts and how to apply it. Case study was the best part of the module, where we had the chance to apply concepts to real situations. My group had to valuate a company that was at risk of bankruptcy and we managed to come up with ideas outside of class to value it (typical valuation fails due to the bankruptcy risk factor). It was altogether a very interesting experience, and we even got to access a stock simulation game where we managed a “fake” portfolio based on real time data. 

Difficulty: Hard

Grade Obtained: A

Cheatsheet for finals

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For those out there who are struggling in school, PRESS ON, and do your best. You might be like me and those around me who might focus a little too much on grades and get disheartened and get all too caught up in this grade-centric mindset. Here is a tip I hope to remind myself and perhaps whoever is reading this as well

1. GRADES MATTER, but just a little.

Growing up in Singaporean society, I have been constantly pressured by those around me to do well in school. In fact, it is the only measure of success that most people understand, even at such an old age. And the truth is, IT DOES MATTER. Although not the best yardstick to measure intelligence and how much one can contribute to a potential employer, it has some measure of how much effort and seriousness you put into your work. And that's why it is important.

That being said, THE TRUTH IS, that grades don't really matter at all if you constantly work to improve yourself. This would show very naturally, be it in the CCAs you participate in, or the opportunities you work to make for yourself. And in the long run, these are the true measure of success, because they bring you experience, and build your character. These would be the things you bring along with you after your leaving school, and determine where your future lies. It is not so much the grades, but how much effort you put into the things you want in life that would matter at the end. So don't give up in whatever you are pursuing. Do your best, and soon enough, people will notice.

AY 16/17 Semester 2

Posting this abit late, so it has no expected grade (since I already got my grades). I took 6modules this semester, and was hoping for a slightly less intense semester to recover from the horrors of the previous one. I also choose to do CS2103 as a technical elective, since programming was enjoyable. All in all, it was a tough semester with CS2103, but pretty refreshing and enjoyable nonetheless.

IE2150 - Human Factor Engineering

Content: This is a very atypical kind of engineering, and present to you areas where engineering and usability meet. It teaches about how to engineer/create applications and/or spaces for human usage, with consideration for human factors such as anthropometry, survey, human senses, etc. Lectures was web-casted for this module, making it easy to catch up with the content. There were four assignments (15%), mid-terms (30%), finals (30%) and a group assignment and presentation (25%). Bell curve was rather average, but most people got similar marks for assignments. Overall an interesting module, which was less technical than expected of engineering.

Difficulty level: Relatively do-able

Grade Obtained: A-

IE2130 - Quality Engineering 1

Content: A module that mixes statistics and quality control concepts together, to come up with standards to evaluate the acceptability of processes/products. There were no webcast, and lectures were generally engaging thanks to the professor. I developed a deeper sense of appreciation for how the industry checks and ensures that quality is maintained at a certain level, and how they can improve on quality by using statistical tools. There were 2 group assignments (6% each), a midterm exam (20%) and a final (68%). Bell curve for this topic was generally steep, seeing that most grades were very similar for the assignments and mid terms. Finals was challenging, and really tested your understanding of the module. Lectures are really important, and should not be missed. 

Difficulty: medium

Grade obtained: A-

IE2100 - Probability Models with Application

Content: This is a module that teaches about the different probability models as well as stochastic processes. It builds models to illustrate or estimate how real life processes and system works. The first half of the class focuses on discrete processes and the application in discrete time makrov chain, and the second half focuses on continuous processes and its application. Grading were based on assignments (20%), midterm (25%) and finals (55%). Lectures was webcasted, and it was particularly useful since lectures were really hard to understand, especially the second half. Bell curve for this topic was relatively decent, so just make sure you understand the topic well.

Difficulty: Medium
Grade obtained: A

BSP1004 - Managerial Economics

Content: This module introduces students to the basic concepts of economics and how the world operates as a function of economics. It teaches supply and demand, elasticity, market power and how it relates to pricing strategies of a firm. There is three chapters at the end that brings in concepts of game theory along with some examples of how it is acting out in real life. Altogether, it is a module that offers greater insight into how the economic mechanisms of the world function, but the concepts are far too simplistic and theoretical for actual application. (Probably true for most economic theories out there) It was not too difficult a module, and if you had an econs background in Junior College, this should be a simple refresher and add-on to what you have learnt. Assessment wise, it is 20% problem sets, 10% case presentation, 10% class participation/attendance and 60% finals. Lectures were web-casted so catching up with content should not be too difficult. For tutorials, you will be assigned a group at the beginning, to complete the problem sets and case presentation together. There is low pressure to class participate, for those who hate this component. Alas, most of the grades depend on your performance in the finals, seeing that it is worth a whopping 60%.

Difficulty: Relatively do-able
Grade obtained: A

BSP1005 - Legal Environment of Business

Content: This is a very interesting module that introduces the concept of law in Singapore, and is applicable especially if you are looking to start a business in Singapore. I feel that the lecturer geared most of the content in a way that highlights key features to take note of, for small and medium enterprises. Class is based on a 3hrs sectional class a week, and is rather chill. Most of the students, if not all, were year 1 as it was a compulsory module for business students, so I was the only odd ball. Assessment is based on 20% on a group assignment, 30% on class participation and 50% finals. The group assignment for my semester focuses on drawing up a business proposal that takes into account Singapore's laws and regulations. My group and I worked pretty hard for it, but I don't think the professor really looked into it, he was really chill. We did get good grades for it though, seeing that he seemed to like us. Class participation was strange, and it is based on the tutorial questions that is pre-arranged and can be prepared for. As the questions were limited, the professor tried to give everyone a chance, so in all of the 10+ classes, you get just 3 chances to speak and class participate. Rather intense if you think about it, so do be prepared with the answers, unlike me who screwed it up. Finals was in the form of case studies, where they give you scenarios and some questions, which you then analyse and "fight" your case. It was done through your own laptop, and the platform they did it on had some weird error and caused my words to be huuuugee. Bad experience, and with poor essay writing, I din't do that well. Altogether a good module to take if you want to learn more about how business and law might affect each other.

Difficulty: Slightly hard
Grade obtained: B+

CS2103 - Software Engineering

Content: Coming with a background of C and C++ programming, this module was a slight shocker as it is all in java. That being said, the lecturers understood that and gave the first two weeks as refresher weeks to update and understand java (still a challenge if you're relatively new like me). This module teaches several concepts about application development, architecture behind applications and some concepts about object oriented programming. It is a very interesting module, and you are expected to develop a functional working application with your teammates at the end of the module. Assessment of the module is based on 50% project, 10% class participation and 40% finals. Lectures were webcasted, so catching up is relatively simple. The first half of the module left me and my ISE friends (those who dared to venture into this trap), very lost. We had to come to grasp with github, sourcetree, java, and understanding complicated codes. There is alot of self learning that needs to come into play, and things can get really messy really fast. Thankfully, I had friends taking this with me, so we struggled together. Try not to take this and struggle alone. The second half of the module is where you start developing code and your program with your group. The code used is to be adapted from a functioning code that the professors will present to you. Lecture only introduce you to simple concepts, and you have to research on how to write the code that does what you want it to do. My group had 2 other ISE friends and 1 computer science student who was really busy in his own schedule. As a result, we had 3 ISE boys who struggled with understanding the program's 10,000 lines of code and then tweaking it to fit our ideas. Previously in CS1010 and CS1020, it was just a few hundred lines, so it was a giant leap and not an easy one. Finals on the other hand focuses on lecture material and was rather difficult to understand and apply as well. This module takes an insane amount of time and effort to do well in, just like most other computing modules, but the results can be very satisfying. Although I din't do as well as I hoped in this module, I've learnt many useful lessons about programming and coding, and even software architecture. A very useful module, but very intense one too. Take it at your own risk.

Difficulty: Very hard
Grade obtained: B

AY 2016/2017 Semester 1

And so I just ended finals not too long ago, and this post seeks to review the modules I have taken in this semester. This was a terrible semester of grinding, and managing 7 modules with programming was challenging.

1. ACC2002 - Managerial accounting

Content: This was a very boring module. I totally hated the content, as opposed to financial accounting. Lessons were conducted once every week, as a 3 hours sectionals style. Apparently, all the classes were as boring, and I had a hard time keeping awake in class. There are 4 quizzes, each taking up 5% of the total grade, a presentation on tutorial (15%), 10% class participation and 55% finals. The good thing is that there was little pressure to class part, as the 10% did not really appeal to most. Quizzes are important, and many scored close to full marks at each round. Apparently, there was a test bank, which I only knew after all the quizzes were done. A generally boring module, but the concepts learnt could be useful to understand how a firm makes decisions internally.

Grade expected: B+/A-
Difficulty: Medium
Grade obtained: A

2. GEH1036 - Living with Mathematics

Content: This module provides introductory lessons on how math is applied in everyday life. There were some good concepts about enciphering, coding, clocking, and some probability. It is rather easy to grasp, and the lectures were done in a way which was not to bad considering a math module. The bell curve is pretty steep though, with the median score for mid terms at 26/30. Lectures were webcasted, and with my classes at 6pm-8pm, twice every week, I gave up lectures and settled for webcast. I did not manage to study consistently for this, but the content was rather short, and there were some overlaps with statistics which made it easier to deal with. This module assessment is based on midterms (30%) and finals (70%). Overall, this would be a module with low time commitment.

Grade expected: B+/A-
Difficulty: Easy
Grade Obtained: A-

3. CS1020E - Data Structures and Algorithms I

Content: And you thought CS1010E was hard. This module is done in C++ programming, and introduces the concepts of several data structure and algorithms. The first 3-4 weeks was crazy, and I struggled to learn about classes, objects, etc. The later half of the module was not as tough, but still challenging. If you put in a lot of effort at the start and decent effort after that, it would be relatively survivable. Programming is however, one of the more fun modules for me, and a very good skill to pick up for the future. For this semester, it was taught by Prof Steven Halim, who really try his best to help students pick up the understanding for this module. Lectures were webcasted, and tutorials are very important to review concepts taught. There was 2 practical exam (10% and 20%), a mid-term test (20%) and finals (40%). Weekly lab exercises took up 7%, and tutorial class participation took up 3%. Overall, I would say this module is very exciting, but not easy and definitely requires commitment.

Grade expected: A-
Difficulty: Hard
Grade Obtained: A

4. FIN2004 - Finance

Content: Quite a fair bit of overlap with IE2140 and the concepts of time value of money. It also includes additional insights into corporate valuation, financial ratios and cash flow management of a firm. Lessons are conducted as 3hrs slots, once every week, sectional style. Class participation consisted of 30%, but competition was not that bad. Midterms took up 20%, term paper(10%), and finals (40%). Term paper was basically solving a preassigned question, and having senior's excel document would go a long way to helping you solve the assignment. The concepts taught introduces one to the idea of finance, and is a good module to take for ISE students, seeing the multiple overlap available. Overall, it is a satisfying module.

Grade expected: A-
Difficulty: Medium
Grade Obtained: A

5. IE2101 - Introduction to systems thinking

Content: The whole module drives the idea of systems thinking across, that you have to consider how a system works to find out the mechanisms of problems. It is a refreshing insight, and a relatively fun module to do. There are 4 graded assignments (basically lab), which takes up 7.5% each, adding up to a total weightage of 30%. There was a final quiz (25%), and the rest is pretty much project based. 5% for interim report, and 40% for project report and presentation combined. The bell curve for this module is expected to be really steep, and the project takes up a massive amount of time and effort. I was so relieved when I finally finished the report for this module. My group did a topic on HIV, and it was rather interesting to analyse and research on. Doing something interesting really helps when the tough times come. Starting early might help, and presentation and report is extremely important. CELC make up part of the team who will assess the presentation, and it is important to make the whole presentation smooth and interesting as well. Really good to have good presentation skills, and picking up public speaking during the same semester seems to help me with that.

Grade expected: A
Difficulty: Slightly hard
Grade Obtained: A

6. IE2110 - Operations Research 1

Content: A very confusing module, and understanding the concepts was a real challenge for me. A very interesting module that introduces the concepts of maximizing efficiency through linear programming. A useful module to understand how to maximize an objective. Assessment includes weekly assignments (10%), midterms (15%), term paper (15%), and finals (60%). As expected, the bell curve is very steep, and everyone gets close to full marks if not full marks for weekly assignments. Midterms are likewise, and practice would help. Term paper allows you and your group to find a problem and apply OR concepts to solve them. My group and I rushed to solve this, and we did not do as well. I could not keep up with the webcasted lectures, and had a tough time understanding concepts. Finals was a disaster, and exceptionally difficult. It was the toughest paper I had in NUS thus far. Overall, this module and its concepts are useful to solving problems with linear programming, and simplex.

Grade expected: B-/B
Difficulty: Hard.
Grade Obtained: B+

7. GET1008 - Public speaking and critical reasoning

Content: This module introduces good elements to public speaking, and gives a good platform to practice preparing and delivering speeches. It helps build confidence for speaking in front of an audience, and is a very good module for personal development. The first half of the semester is relatively easy, and speeches are not graded to allow students to warm up to the module. The second half was relatively harder, and requires more effort and time weto finish speeches, as well as the project. It is a good module to take if you are either really good at speaking in public, or you really want to develop this skill. The assessment consists of 3 speeches with weightage of 50% in total, a final quiz (20%), class participation of 15%, and a group project of 15%. Altogether there will be 6 speeches in total though. Dress well, speak well, and prepare well, and you will probably do well for it.

Grade expected: B+
Difficulty: Slightly Hard
Grade Obtained: A+