At the intersection of aspirations: Firman Misran’s voyage of tenacity and triumph

From Singapore to Aotearoa New Zealand, the life journey of Te Kunenga ki Pūrehuroa Massey University alumnus Firman Misran is one of ambition, resilience, and the transformative power of education. Firman, a dedicated professional in the media and advertising industry, has successfully woven his passion for data and technology into a thriving career, and he credits Massey for playing a pivotal role in his success.

“The turning point materialised as a Massey University brochure,” Firman reflects on his pursuit of the perfect master’s programme. “For me, the programmes were either too expansive, too specialised or too expensive in Singapore. That’s when I stumbled upon Massey’s Masters of Analytics in Business. The realisation hit me, ‘If not now, then when?’”

“I fell in love with New Zealand through the mesmerising landscapes depicted in the Lord of the Rings and Hobbit movies. My visit in 2016 only deepened this affection,” he says. “The chance to study with a New Zealand university from Singapore seemed like destiny beckoning me. I had to respond.”

Having earned a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from the Singapore University of Social Sciences and a Diploma in Internet Computing from Temasek Polytechnic, Firman yearned to explore deeper realms of knowledge. “The industry was abuzz with terms like Data Science and Analytics, and I understood that pursuing a master’s degree was the logical next step,” he says. “To establish my qualifications, keep pace with the ever-evolving industry, and stay ahead in the game.”

Nonetheless, the quest for higher education wasn’t a cakewalk. Balancing a full-time job with an intensive academic programme demanded immense tenacity, perseverance, and determination. “Academic pursuit can be a solitary voyage,” he confesses. “But despite the struggle, I knew I had to soldier on. My family and friends remained my support pillars, even though my mum still grapples with understanding my profession!” Firman adds, chuckling.

Firman takes immense pride in his accomplishments. “I’m thrilled to be a Massey graduate with a Master’s in Analytics in Business. Juggling a full-time job with formal education isn’t a simple feat,” he admits. “I’ve managed to do this twice, once for my bachelor’s and then for my master’s at Massey. I believe it speaks volumes about my ability to focus and achieve the goals I set for myself.”

Challenged by applying and elevating his new knowledge within his work area, Firman credits the practical approach of Massey’s programme. It allowed him to experiment with real-world data and devise suitable solutions for his assignments.

Firman’s journey also bestowed upon him life-altering lessons. A major career setback when he had prepared to be a teacher pivoted his path. “Life had a different roadmap. I found myself embraced into media and advertising by a mentor who saw potential in me during my uncertainty. That’s when I truly learned to march to the beat of my drum.”

Reflecting on his time at Massey, Firman speaks with warmth and admiration. “The programme fit my needs like a glove, and the curriculum resonated deeply with me,” he shares. “What was unique about Massey was how they embraced the true essence of education at the master’s level – it was about crafting knowledge, not merely consuming it.”

In his leisure, Firman stays active, explores new places, and dives into audiobooks, all while surrounded by the warmth of his family and friends.

With his eyes set on the future, Firman recently embarked on a new chapter with Publicis Groupe, where he aims to shape Data Solutions across the Asia Pacific. He also harbours a dream of pursuing a doctorate, waiting for the right programme to “call out” to him that aligns with his personal goals.

In the meantime, Firman has charted numerous industry-specific and technical programmes to keep himself abreast of the evolving industry trends. He hopes to influence the academic sphere through a doctorate programme, thereby becoming a beacon of inspiration for the budding talents entering the industry and his present or future organisations.