Grace Lee Pei Shi: From Numbers to People: A Journey Beyond Accounting

grace lee

I chose to pursue Accounting and Finance because I believe the knowledge and skills I gain from this programme will help support my father’s company in the future. I wanted to build a strong foundation in financial management, accounting and business decision-making so that I could contribute meaningfully to the company’s growth and development. As I progressed through my studies, I became more interested in understanding how financial knowledge could be applied to real-world business situations, which strengthened my commitment to the programme.

Although my current career is not directly related to accounting, my programme has equipped me with skills that continue to benefit me at work. Analytical thinking, problem-solving, decision-making, time management and attention to detail are especially useful in my role in engagement and events. I regularly coordinate tasks, communicate with stakeholders and manage event requirements. My academic background has also helped me analyse budgets, quotations and invoices when ordering items such as buntings, posters and catering services.

Experiences beyond the classroom shaped my employment journey. While studying, I became actively involved in co-curricular activities, student organisations and event management. These opportunities helped me discover that I enjoyed working with people, coordinating activities and bringing ideas to life. I have also had an interest in the arts from a young age, and over time, I realised that my strengths extended beyond numbers and finance. This eventually led me to my current role with the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences at Sunway University, where I work in the Engagement and Administration Department and can fully express my creative ideas.

One of my proudest career achievements is my progression from an intern at Sunway University’s Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences to becoming an Assistant Coordinator for Sunway Music Expo 2026. This opportunity allowed me to take on greater responsibilities and contribute to a major faculty event. I was involved in creating the official Sunway Music Expo logo and coordinating with external parties, industry players, partners and stakeholders throughout the planning and execution process. Seeing an idea develop into an actual event was especially meaningful. Coming from an Accounting and Finance background, I never expected to build a career in events, so this progression represents personal growth and the discovery of a field that I genuinely enjoy.

My programme has also influenced how I contribute to society. It taught me responsibility, resource management and thoughtful decision-making, which are values I apply in my current work. Through engagement and events, I help create opportunities for students, staff, alumni and external partners to connect and collaborate. Although I did not follow a traditional accounting career, the discipline I developed continues to guide the way I work.

One of the most valuable lessons from my studies was resilience. Coming from a pure science background during my SPM years, adjusting to Accounting and Finance was challenging. Many concepts were unfamiliar to me, and I sometimes struggled to keep up. With encouragement from my family members and through hard work, I ultimately managed to excel in my degree. Moreover, my father always reminded me to finish what I started and never lose hope. His encouragement taught me perseverance.

My time at Sunway Business School was about much more than completing a degree. I worked part-time with Sunway Admission as a Student Helper throughout my degree and was later entrusted with leading and coordinating other student helpers, especially during Open Days. I also served as the Creative Director of the Sunway Analytics Society and the Director of International Relations at AIESEC. These roles allowed me to develop communication, leadership and teamwork skills while exploring creativity and collaboration.

Looking back, these experiences are among my fondest memories of university life because they helped shape who I am today. I am grateful to my lecturers, friends, colleagues and family for supporting me, especially my father, who encouraged me to persevere. What began as a journey in Accounting and Finance eventually led me to discover a passion for human engagement, events and the arts. I am more than happy to be able to pursue what I love in my career. Today, I am thankful that my journey has come full circle, allowing me to remain part of the Sunway community while building a career that reflects who I have become.

Edited by
Dr Arumugam Muthusamy
Sunway Business School
Email: @email