What were you doing before you came to study at UC?
I previously earned a bachelor’s degree in computer information systems, which leaned toward a tech focus. After I graduated, I worked as a web developer for a year. I then worked as an ICT Business Analyst for a technology company in Vietnam for more than five years before coming to New Zealand to study at the University of Canterbury.
Why did you choose UC’s Master of Business Information Systems (MBIS)?
I wanted to build on the technical skills I learned during my undergraduate degree and deepen my understanding of how technology is used strategically within business and government contexts. UC’s MBIS programme was the ideal next step because it sits at exactly that intersection - covering data analytics, information system, information security, and project management alongside the technical aspect.
In addition, UC’s reputation as an established university with a long history of producing successful graduates, combined with the affordability of studying in New Zealand compared to the USA, Canada, or Australia, made it a very attractive and a clear decision.
What does your current role as a Business Data Analyst for Napier City Council involve?
Napier City Council is in public domain, with more than 800 staff and complex data. My role is quite unique because it sits within the Corporate Services department under Finance and Data, in the junction of Finance, Payroll, and HR. Day-to-day, this involves analysing data from council systems, building financial reports - especially labour budget and cost – and dashboards, identifying trends, and working with various teams to understand their information needs.
My BA knowledge, experience and expertise means I am also involved in data migration. We have multiple projects moving from local to cloud, so I run SQL queries to extract data, map data, and load it into the new system.
How well do you think your UC degree prepared you for your current job?
The MBIS prepared me very well. The coursework covered data analytics, information management, and project management in ways that map directly onto what I do every day. One thing that stands out is how the programme developed my ability to communicate complex information clearly to diverse audiences. It is a skill that is essential when presenting data insights to non-technical stakeholders in a council setting.
I also took an elective course in accounting, which helped me get my current role. Since I’m dealing with big financial numbers in P&L and Balance Sheet, understanding their elements helps me to create correct reports and communicate with Finance team.
Did you take part in any project courses or other practical experiences at UC?
Yes - the group project courses were a standout experience. They were intensive, collaborative projects that closely mirrored real-world business and organisational challenges. I also participated in a project course in my final semester that provided hands-on, practical exposure. What I found most valuable was how these experiences forced me to apply classroom knowledge in realistic scenarios: working with teams from diverse cultural backgrounds, navigating conflicting viewpoints, and delivering to deadlines.
The projects also significantly strengthened my soft skills in presentation, communication, collaboration, and conflict management. These are skills employers consistently look for, and having them tested in a structured academic environment gave me real confidence going into the workforce.
What do you think were the key factors that made you employable and how did you develop these at UC?
The knowledge I obtained at UC gave me the foundation, and becoming a specialist is what made me especially attractive to employers. Finding someone who has both system knowledge and accounting knowledge is not easy, especially in the data migration and data integration space. Completing the MBIS helped me tick these important boxes. It also provided experience working across multicultural teams, especially in communication skills, which is highly relevant in New Zealand’s diverse workplaces.
UC’s MBIS helped me develop all of these skills through its combination of rigorous coursework, collaborative projects, and a curriculum that demands both analytical thinking and clear communication. This is very important in New Zealand because most employers look for someone who is “team-fit”, thinks logically, communicates clearly, and is supportive.
Why is Christchurch a good place to study from a career development perspective?
Christchurch is a growing city, and that creates genuine opportunity for graduates. There is a strong and emerging tech sector, a collaborative business community, and a lower cost of living compared to Auckland or Wellington – all of which make it an attractive place to start a career.
In addition, UC itself is connected to the local industry, and the diverse student community means you are constantly networking with people from a wide range of backgrounds and sectors. For international students in particular, Christchurch is welcoming and manageable in size, which makes it easier to build meaningful professional connections. UC is also well-known in New Zealand, which is another key factor for employment.
What did you like about living in Christchurch?
The South Island is the most beautiful area in New Zealand. It’s easy to travel from Christchurch to explore other places like Lake Tekapo or Queenstown. I am currently living in Hastings/Napier on the North Island and have travelled around quite a bit, and in terms of nature and landscapes, the South Island wins big.
What did you value most about your time at UC?
The best thing about UC is its rich and diverse culture, which enabled me to meet students and professors from different cultures and backgrounds. I also had the pleasure of meeting many Kiwis who introduced me to New Zealand and its culture, especially the Māori culture, which I find unique and fascinating. The professors and faculty members also care about students and always tried their best to help us reach our goals.
