From Chemistry to Change-Making: A Journey Through Education and Innovation
Career paths are rarely linear; they twist, turn, and often lead us to unexpected destinations. This is my story—how I, Siti Najaa, a chemist with a Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry, traded my lab coat for a leadership role in education management and, in doing so, discovered my entrepreneurial spirit.
I spent six years deeply immersed in organic chemistry, exploring the intricate world of molecules. The lab was my sanctuary, where each experiment promised a new discovery, but as time went on, I began to feel a growing desire for something more meaningful. While my work was intellectually stimulating, I longed to connect with others, share my knowledge, and inspire the same curiosity that had drawn me to science.
The Shift: From Chemistry to Education
My career pivot began when I started tutoring chemistry and conducting workshops for undergraduate students. Watching their faces light up during those “aha” moments ignited a passion for teaching and education. I realized that my greatest impact lay not just in the lab but in nurturing young minds.
Encouraged by this realization, I decided to take a leap of faith. After completing my Ph.D. in Australia, I came back home and joined the Asia School of Business (ASB) as a Teaching Assistant. The transition was daunting, requiring me to learn about curriculum design, business management and the complexities of academic program planning. However, my analytical skills from the lab—developed through years of breaking down complex problems—served me well in this new environment.
Embracing Action and People Management
At ASB, my career flourished as I embraced various action-oriented roles that sharpened my management skills and expanded my horizons. From leading the Academic Associate team to managing the Innovation and Entrepreneurship Center, I learned that effective people management is at the heart of true leadership. It’s about empowering others, fostering collaboration, and creating an environment where ideas can thrive.
One of my proudest achievements was building ASBhive, a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship at ASB. Starting from scratch, I led my team in creating a space where students could bring their ideas to life. ASBhive is not just a physical location; we cultivated a culture of experimentation and collaboration. I vividly remember the energy on the G-Floor during our events and programs, where students engaged, networked, and built meaningful relationships. It was incredibly rewarding to witness the dynamics of this vibrant ecosystem.
I encourage everyone to look forward to the amazing work ASBhive will continue to offer in 2025 and beyond as the team keeps the momentum going and strives for even greater achievements.
Conclusion: Discovering a New Path
My journey from the lab to education management and now to entrepreneurship serves as a powerful reminder that careers are not always predefined. It illustrates how skills from one field can open doors in another, and how curiosity, coupled with courage, can lead to unexpected and rewarding paths.
In today’s fluid career landscape, my experience encourages those feeling confined by their roles to explore the possibilities. By blending my scientific expertise with my passion for education and entrepreneurship, I’ve crafted a career that is uniquely mine. My transition wasn’t just a change of profession; it was the discovery of my true calling: to inspire, innovate, and create meaningful change.
As I embark on this new journey, I carry with me the invaluable lessons learned from years of supporting others, the scientific rigor from my chemistry background, and the belief that the best careers are often the ones we discover along the way. I’m excited for what lies ahead, ready to face the future with an open mind and a determined heart.
Special Note: To my ASB colleagues (past and present), especially my amazing IEC teammates, ASB Management, Faculty, students and alumni, and our incredible partners and friends, thank you for your support, your inspiration, and for being an important part of this journey. The past seven years have been transformative, both personally and professionally. I will carry the lessons I’ve learned and the relationships I’ve built with me always. I wish ASB and ASBhive continued success.
Dr Siti Najaa Zulkifli, Assistant Director of Innovation Entrepreneurship Center
Serving ASB from Jan 2018 – Nov 2024
