Why This Internship Mattered
Q: Where did you intern and what motivated you to apply?
A: I interned at WILL International (WILL GROUP Asia Pacific Pte. Ltd) for one year as an IT Intern in the Technology, Network & Security department. I wanted to challenge myself beyond the classroom and gain practical experience in IT operations, cloud systems, and cybersecurity. I was particularly drawn to the organisation’s diverse business units and the opportunity to contribute to meaningful infrastructure and security improvement projects across the region.
Q: How did you secure this internship opportunity?
A: I applied directly through internsg.com and was shortlisted after submitting my resume. During the interview with the IT Manager, I shared my experience in data analytics and Python automation, which aligned with the team's goals. My enthusiasm for learning and hands-on approach helped me secure the internship.
Meaningful Contributions and Growth
Q: What were your main responsibilities during the internship?
A: I supported IT infrastructure and cybersecurity initiatives across subsidiaries. I developed a Power BI dashboard for the Finance Team, automating monthly reporting and reducing manual effort. I created a Python-based data cleaning tool to standardise sales data, enabling staff with no programming knowledge to produce accurate reports. I also enhanced the Microsoft 365 environment, including license optimisation, email security, and policy implementation. Additionally, I worked on improving our cybersecurity score by implementing phishing campaigns, Defender policies, and vulnerability assessments.
Q: What was the most memorable moment during your internship?
A: Leading the development of the Power BI dashboard integrated with the Python cleaning tool was the most memorable. Initially a solo project, it quickly gained recognition as regional teams saw its impact. Seeing my solution adopted across countries and praised for its user-friendliness gave me confidence in bridging technical tools with business needs.
Q: What challenges did you face and how did you overcome them?
A: Balancing multiple cybersecurity projects was challenging. Each had unique technical and compliance requirements with varying stakeholder expectations. I applied project management techniques learned in school, such as creating timelines, segmenting tasks, and maintaining open communication.
Applying SIM Lessons to Real Work
Q: How did your SIM coursework or lessons help you prepare for the challenges of your internship?
A: SIM's coursework blended technical and problem-solving skills. The Programming with Data module gave me the coding foundation for building the Python cleaning tool. The How Computers Work unit also increased my understanding of system architecture and security concepts, which I applied in cloud security evaluations while agile software projects taught me to manage complex IT projects methodically from requirements gathering to stakeholder engagement. These lessons helped me manage real-world projects and contribute meaningfully from day one.
Q: How did your internship help you grow in the areas of Head, Heart, and Hands?
A:
Head (knowledge and thinking skills): My internship sharpened my critical thinking and problem-solving skills by applying Python, data analytics, and cloud skills in real projects. It also taught me to assess risks, prioritise tasks, and align IT decisions with business goals.
Heart (values, attitudes, and self-awareness): I grew more self-aware and confident, learning to accept feedback and improve. Teamwork taught me humility, patience, and empathy. I realised that technical skills are not enough; dependability, adaptability, and collaboration matter too.
Hands (practical, applied skills): I gained hands-on experience in dashboard creation, cloud security, automation, and policy work. Trusted with real tasks, I learned to turn ideas into results and support IT operations effectively.
Q: How do you think these will help you succeed in your future career?
A: The combination of technical expertise, self-awareness, and applied experience gives me a strong foundation to adapt to any challenge in my future career. At SIM, I also learnt how to approach problems holistically - understanding not just the technical side, but also the people and processes involved.
Recognition and Advice for Future Interns
Q: What does receiving the SIM WILL Award mean to you?
A: Receiving the SIM WILL Award is a deeply meaningful recognition of my journey. It validates the effort, perseverance, and passion I poured into my internship. More than an award, it is a reminder that even as an intern, I was able to make a real impact. It motivates me to keep learning, growing, and paying it forward by helping others on their journey.
Q: What advice would you give to students who are unsure about taking up an internship?
A: Take the leap even if you do not feel ready. Internships are about learning and discovering your strengths and interests. They offer real business exposure, help build soft skills and clarify your career path. Be open, ask questions, and treat every task as a chance to grow. You don't need to be perfect; just willing to learn.
About the SIM Work-Integrated Learning for Life (WILL) Award
The SIM Work-Integrated Learning for Life Award aims to provide real-world learning experiences where SIM students can develop holistically, and deepen their cognitive (Head), affective (Heart), and psychomotor (Hands) capacities for good work. It does this through offering a variety of high-quality opportunities for work-integrated learning.