Tzu-ying Tang
Breaking My Own Boundaries: A Journey from Medicine to Business
My academic and professional journey began in the field of medicine. After graduating from Kaohsiung Medical University, I began working at Mackay Memorial Hospital. While I was grateful for the experience, I began to feel that I was living within a very fixed framework—and I wanted to step outside of it.
That desire led me to pursue the IBMBA program.
At first, I was drawn to the social sciences. I wanted to understand how society functions and what drives human behavior. But the more I explored, the more I realized how these interests overlap with the world of business—consumer behavior, economic systems, capital flows, and beyond. After all, no one exists in isolation; we are all deeply connected to the dynamics of society, industry, and even international affairs. I became eager to understand how national policies and fiscal systems shape economic outcomes—perspectives I never encountered in the medical field.
One of the things I appreciate most about NSYSU’s College of Management is its inclusive and diverse environment. Students from all walks of life come together here, offering fresh perspectives and opportunities for growth. Unlike the relatively closed ecosystem of a hospital, the business school encourages openness, innovation, and the courage to explore new possibilities.
What’s more, I’ve found that the professors at NSYSU genuinely care about their students. They are approachable, supportive, and willing to offer guidance. This student-centered approach has made a significant difference for someone like me, coming from a non-business background. I always feel that I have a place to ask questions, seek advice, and grow.
Why did I choose not to study abroad? For one, Taiwan offers a lower cost of living, which allows me to continue engaging with my original profession while pursuing new knowledge. I also know myself—I don’t adapt quickly to change. While international programs are often more hands-on, I believe learning is a mindset, and meaningful education can happen anywhere if you're motivated.
Among all the courses I’ve taken, two have stood out the most:
Research Methodology taught me how to structure academic research and think critically through a logical framework.
Managerial Economics expanded my understanding of microeconomics and exposed me to different models used across countries. I especially enjoyed learning about transaction cost theory, which gave me a new lens through which to understand organizational decisions.
In my view, communication and adaptability are essential skills in business—but even more important is initiative. Staying curious and actively engaging with new experiences is the key to personal growth. I try to treat every assignment not just as a task, but as a learning opportunity.
If I could offer one piece of advice to prospective students, it would be this:
Start developing self-awareness as early as possible. The sooner you understand who you are and where you want to go, the clearer your direction will be. Right now, many of us are like pluripotent cells, full of potential and open to infinite possibilities.