Jovianne started university with a familiar uncertainty – she could see herself in HR or social media marketing, but she wasn't sure. Rather than forcing a decision, she chose to explore. "I decided to study a Bachelor of Business broadly to find a niche and ideally discover my 'calling'. I ended up doing a double degree in Business Information Systems to complement the business degree."

Jovianne loves the dynamic blend of business strategy and technological application of her double degrees. “It's incredibly rewarding to learn how to leverage information systems to solve real-world business problems and drive innovation. For instance, we recently put theory into practice by designing a database system for a simulated business." The course's relevance to today's digital landscape, combined with the diverse skill set she's developing, makes Jovianne feel confident about her future in business.

Picking the degree that’s right for you

Jovianne's biggest lesson wasn't about databases or marketing strategies – it was about courage. "Don't choose a degree based on what's popular or in demand. I made that mistake at the start, choosing business because I wasn't sure what I wanted, and it felt like the safe option. But I've learned that playing it safe isn't always the best way forward. I heard this in a movie once and it stuck with me: 'If you’re afraid of dying, don’t be afraid to live.' It is a great reminder to me not to be afraid to take risks."

One of her inspirations comes from an unexpected source: Taylor Swift. "She built her success on something very simple yet powerful – her ability to write lyrics that people could relate to emotionally. She took what she was naturally good at and used it to make an impact. Coming from a small town, she knew the odds were tough, but as she said: 'Always be fearless.' Even though Taylor was talking about love, I think that message applies to life too – be fearless in choosing what feels right for you."

Campus living and community support

"Our campus has a really inclusive and diverse atmosphere. I've met people from all walks of life, and there's a genuine sense of community."

When Jovianne moved into Howitt Hall at Monash Residential Services, she hoped to make lifelong friendships. She found those but discovered something even more valuable – a support system and community that would carry her through her university challenges.

"What truly surprised me was the unwavering support from the leadership team, especially our previous College Head, Eddie, and Deputy College Head, Bhavya," she says. When job hunting felt overwhelming, they didn't just offer encouragement – they actively looked out for opportunities and checked in during tough times. "Their presence made Howitt feel more alive and connected, which is something my friends who still live there say has changed noticeably since they left." Living there taught her that support systems can emerge from unexpected places.

Building community and building confidence through clubs and societies

Being involved in the Singapore Association of Monash (SAM) and the Monash Marketing Students Society (MMSS) were the most rewarding parts of Jovianne's university life. "Through SAM, I found a sense of cultural familiarity and belonging. We organised events, shared meals and supported each other through the challenges of studying overseas. It made Monash feel like home," explains Jovianne.

In contrast, her involvement in MMSS allowed her to explore her passion for marketing and creativity. "I particularly enjoyed organising events and working on campaigns, which gave me real-world insights into marketing strategy and brand engagement."

"These experiences helped me grow both personally and professionally. I gained confidence, improved my leadership skills, and discovered that I thrive in roles involving creative direction and strategic thinking," she explains. "While I may not have found my complete 'calling' yet, I've definitely discovered what energises me."

Overcoming self-doubt by shifting the mindset

Navigating personal struggles with self-confidence was one of the most challenging aspects of Jovianne’s Monash journey. "It's so easy to compare yourself to others when you're literally in the melting pot of people who are similar to you. The uni work wasn't hard, waking up for my 8am classes wasn't impossible, but self-doubt was the biggest mental battle I faced."

The breakthrough came when she shifted her perspective entirely. "I realised that just because I'm not at a particular level yet, it doesn't mean I won't get there. I just needed to work in baby steps. Allowing myself to stop comparing and change my mindset has opened so many doors that I otherwise wouldn't have taken."

Her proudest accomplishment reflects this growth: "If you were to ask me what my biggest accomplishment is, it's not meeting Taylor Swift or my favourite F1 driver – it's learning to meet myself where I'm at and knowing how to change my mindset. You can never finish comparing yourself to others, but you can always change your mindset."

Jovianne’s graduation plans

After graduation, Jovianne hopes to follow her father's entrepreneurial footsteps, building something that blends strategy, technology and creativity. If not immediately pursuing entrepreneurship, social media marketing beckons – a passion sparked by her MMSS involvement and love for creative strategy and brand storytelling.

"My double degree has shaped my thinking by giving me a broad understanding of both business fundamentals and the role technology plays in driving innovation. It's helped me develop a unique perspective, one that I hope to apply to whatever path I take."

Advice to future students

For future students facing similar uncertainty, Jovianne's advice is refreshingly practical: "Focus on small, manageable steps instead of worrying about the big picture. Concentrate on preparing for the next day. I go to bed looking forward to making breakfast and doing my skincare ritual the next day. That little thing makes me excited. I don't think about uni, I dread the idea sometimes. But whenever I associate uni with something positive, like having coffee or breakfast, this removes any feeling of fear, nervousness, or doubt."

It's a simple approach that makes the biggest difference: sometimes the biggest transformations start with the smallest shifts in perspective. Just like choosing to add that BIS degree at the last minute, or learning to be fearless in following what feels right.