* The interview was conducted in Dec 2002

University

Bachelor of Accounting and Finance, HKU, 1998

Current Employment

Financial Management Program, General Electric

Previous Employment

Associate, PricewaterhouseCoopers, 1998

Background

In an increasingly competitive employment market, it is not easy for new graduates to secure a job of their choice. However, among the large number of job applicants some can successfully emerge above others and get the job they want. Vivian Lam is one such graduate and she is happy to share her experience with us in the following paragraphs.

Vivian graduated in 1998 with majors in Accounting and Finance. Her career goal was to pursue a career in the field of her studies. Upon graduation, Vivian secured job offers from all of the then Big Six international accounting firms and joined PricewaterhouseCoopers to start her career. She obtained professional qualifications in ACCA and CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst), specialising in financial management.

Vivian is now working with General Electric (GE), receiving intensive training in the company's Financial Management Program which aims at developing world-class financial leaders. Guided by senior GE professionals and mentors, Vivian is going through rotational assignments in different GE businesses. From her daily tasks, Vivian acquired hands-on experience in a wide range of professional work including financial planning, operations analysis, treasury management, private equity deal analysis, commercial finance and Six Sigma quality. Vivian has no doubt embarked on a promising career with a bright future.

What did Vivian do to prepare herself for this career path?

First of all, she took a serious attitude towards her studies and always tried her best to achieve excellence in academic work. She also actively participated in extra-curricular activities to enrich her life experience and strengthen self-confidence. For example, Vivian joined the Intensified Learning Opportunity Programme (ILOP) and committed herself fully to all its activities.

Some words of wisdom for students

Vivian has the following advice to give to students wanting to fulfill their own great career:

1. Work hard - always take the initiative and demonstrate your talents
2. Play hard - strike a balance between your working and personal life
3. Tedious tasks occur in every occupation - do not mind doing them
4. Be presentable - keep a tidy appearance
5. Fluency in both English and Putonghua is definitely an advantage