Paul Ong

I am writing to express my interest in the investment analyst role. As a recent graduate from Singapore Polytechnic with a Diploma in Business Administration (DBA) specialising, I am confident that my skills, experience, and passion for investing make me a strong candidate for the role. I have been offered a direct admission into SMU business management in 2025 after my NS.

During my studies, I achieved a GPA of 3.8/4.0 with 6 distinctions and 11 As. I also received the CCA Gold with Honours, the MOE Edusave Achievement for Academic Achievement in 2021, and was on the Honour Roll for AY 2021/2022. In addition to my academic achievements, I have gained practical experience in the finance industry as an investment analyst intern at Seeds Capital, the government's VC arm. There, I assisted in deal screening and provided assessments across prospective agrifood deals; conducted research and analysis on startups; completed an investment deal for Insectta with Trendlines Group, Glocalink SG, and Paragon Ventures; curated an investment memorandum; and supported various projects and government initiatives. My skills in structured narrative building, analytical thinking, and attention to detail were honed during the due diligence processes.

I was also the winner of the FedEx Express/JA International Trade Challenge Singapore, where I researched specific countries for an international marketing plan, developed business plans including target market, product, pricing, promotion, distribution, financials, technology, timeline, and success measurement, and honed strong skills in research, analysis, writing, communication, teamwork, and business strategy.

In addition to my professional experience, I have also been involved in extra-curricular activities such as serving as a financial executive for the ASEAN Business Youth Association, representing Lions Club Singapore in the Chong Pang x Japan exchange programme, collaborating with Bosch to research sustainable seaweed farming business ventures as part of the Temasek Foundation Scholar Programme, and leading a group of five students in planning monthly mentorship sessions focused on boosting personal and professional development as part of the Harvard Business School Club of Singapore Mentorship Programme.

I am excited about the opportunity to intern, as it will provide me with a chance to expand my knowledge and gain valuable experience in the private sector of the financial industry. I look forward to learning skills such as financial modelling and portfolio management, while also being able to share my previous experiences interning in the public sector. This internship will allow me to broaden my horizons and gain a new perspective on the industry, which I am eager to apply to my future career aspirations.

Thank you for considering my application. I am excited about the opportunity to contribute my skills and experience.