Balancing classes, internships, and personal projects might sound overwhelming, but for Shao Chun Chuang, a Global Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) student at ESSEC Asia-Pacific, it’s all part of the journey.

Why work while studying?

“Real growth comes from doing, not just studying,” says Shao Chun. That mindset led him to pursue part-time work and side ventures while studying in Singapore.

He chose ESSEC because it aligned with his belief in practical, flexible learning. “My IB journey taught me that effective education comes from having choices—trying, understanding, and owning your path,” he shares. ESSEC’s Asia-Pacific campus offers the perfect blend of business education, cultural diversity, and real-world experience.

Making it work: Study + work + life

So how does he manage it all?

Shao Chun breaks it down:

• Be intentional – “Know when to push forward and when to step back.”
• Progress over perfection – Set small, meaningful goals to stay motivated.
• Use your youth wisely – “We have fewer risks now and bounce back faster. This is the best time to explore and fail forward.”

This approach helped him thrive in internships at Hays and MEXC, where he handled everything from candidate sourcing to campaign execution and cross-border communication.

What kinds of part-time work are available?

International students in Singapore can work part-time under student visa regulations. Shao Chun recommends exploring:

• Internships – To develop industry-specific skills and insights.
• Freelance work – Apply what you learn in areas like content, design, or digital marketing.
• On-campus roles – Student Council and school clubs offer leadership opportunities.
• Entrepreneurial ventures – Test out ideas in a safe, supportive environment.

At MEXC, he worked as an HR Business Partner, helping onboard KOLs and coordinating internal campaigns. This gave him a firsthand look at the fast-moving crypto and tech space. Meanwhile, at Hays, he honed his communication skills in a more structured, corporate setting.

Beyond the résumé

These roles didn’t just fill up his CV. They helped shape who he is.

“I learned how to adapt, lead, and manage time purposefully,” he says. And with his upcoming double degree at Yonsei University, he’s looking forward to building on those foundations—especially in Korean fashion, culture, and innovation.

Advice for future ESSEC students:

• “If you’re thinking about ESSEC, go for it. But don’t stop at the classroom,” Shao Chun says.
• Take initiative.
• Be curious.
• Don’t be afraid to try things outside your comfort zone.
• And most importantly, trust your own pace.

“Everyone’s journey looks different. Don’t stress about others. Focus on learning, doing, and growing.”