They’re ambitious, innovative and highly intelligent – and they’re set to soon graduate from their chosen fields of study and launch careers that will inspire and change the world.
In the coming weeks we will profile 16 female graduates to watch in 2014 who are leading the next generation of female talent in science, medicine, law, business and research. They answer our questions on everything from what they hope to achieve in their careers, what inspires them and the challenges they anticipate they will face in their careers.
Edwina Chai plans on becoming a leader of a global investment banking firm and/or launching her own major business, and at 21, she is already well on her way. A recipient of Citi’s 2012 women in banking scholarship, Chai’s completed internships at KordaMentha, Macquarie Bank and Citi and has been offered work at RBC Capital Markets. She believes the biggest challenge to her ambition could be competition, given the investment banking industry is full of like-minded, intelligent and driven individuals with an eye on success. Meanwhile, volunteering is important to Chai and something she hopes to continue throughout her career. She’s spent time teaching English in rural China and participating in Project Homeless Connect in Colorado.
What degree are you studying and at which university?
I have completed the Bachelor of Accounting (Co-op scholarship program) and am currently finishing my Honours in Finance at the University of Technology, Sydney (UTS).
When do you plan on finishing your studies?
End of November 2013.
How old are you?
21
What do you want to achieve in your career?
I want to eventually become a leader of a global firm (preferably in the investment banking industry) where I can add value to a firm in terms of mentoring, bringing in deals and precise execution. Or, one day, using my experience, to start my own business.
What are the biggest challenges you face in trying to reach these goals?
Competition – I believe the investment banking industry draws like-minded, intelligent and driven individuals who all have the same goal of becoming successful. Reaching my goals would mean that I would have to perform above and beyond my peers, which can sometimes prove to be difficult.
To start my own business, many challenges currently exist such as capital, a sound business idea and right business partners, just to name a few.
Why is volunteering important to you?
Volunteer work is important to me because I have been blessed and lucky enough to be in the position that I am now. As a result, I believe that helping those around you who are less fortunate is the way life should be. I was always brought up to be selfless and to help wherever I can. My grandma is a very active volunteer and I remember as a child we used to help collect donations to raise support for causes such as China earthquake relief or raising funds for retirement homes.
Who do you admire most?
My dad – We migrated from Malaysia when I was only 2 years old and he has managed to support and continues to support a family of 6 single handedly.
What is the best advice you have ever received?
Live life with no regrets. Mistakes made are just another way to continue learning and improving yourself.