5 Questions with MSIS Student: Yen Phung

The Master of Science in Information Systems program at the UW Foster School of Business in Seattle is a one-year, work-compatible, accelerated master’s program designed to train current and future business leaders in information systems management. View all MSIS student profiles here. 

We asked students to share with us about their MSIS experience and explain how they have been able to balance working full time while pursuing an MSIS degree. Meet MSIS Class of 2021 student Yen Phung, Product Manager III, Expedia.

How have you been able to apply concepts from the classroom to real-world applications as a Senior Program Manager?

I have been able to apply technical skills and leadership skills I gained from the program to various aspects of my work. Since joining the program, I have been able to more effectively deep dive into technical solutions for my programs/products and speak the same language with my stakeholders. The program has also improved my ability to collect and gain meaningful insights from data, a skill set that has helped me better communicate business values and influence/manage my stakeholders.

What kind of connections have you made in the MSIS program?

While the program was entirely virtual this year due to COVID-19, I was still able to develop deep connections with my team and cohort through various class and teamwork activities. I have also been able to expand my network through various MSIS events and get connected with alumni and partners of the program through virtual coffee chats.

Can you share with us how you believe an MSIS degree will give you a competitive advantage?

The MSIS curriculum gave me many opportunities to sharpen my technical skills, some key classes that have contributed to this include Advanced Database Systems and Data Warehouse, Advanced Business Data Mining, and ML/AI for Business Applications.

The program’s focus on providing relevant courses that have real-world applications in the technology industry has allowed me to work on more high-visibility, technology-driven projects at work. I believe the technical foundation that I have been able to develop through MSIS will have a long-lasting impact on my career.”

In addition, I have found that hearing industry professional’s experience and advice through the MSIS 550 Leadership Series has been incredibly helpful for me as I plan my career path.

Tell us about your MSIS mentorship experience.

The opportunity to be connected with a mentor has been an invaluable experience for me. As an established professional and people leader, my mentor, Russell Rhodes, Senior Manager, Big Data at Zillow, has helped guide me through the process of planning for my career and gave me incredible perspectives into what it means to lead a team. As someone with aspirations of becoming a people leader one day, Russell’s insights have helped me identify my own strengths and opportunities, and the type of skills I’ll need to hone to become an effective leader.

What are the benefits of pursuing a master’s degree while working full time?

Working full time while pursuing my master’s degree was a forcing function for me to improve my time management and productivity skills. I believe that this is a valuable skill set that I will continually benefit from as I progress through my career.