Steve Chen, Class of 2016


 

Steve Chen  陳彥升  Canada/US/Taiwan

Class of 2016 / R03

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevechen12/
HR Steve

 

Finding My Path Before GMBA

 
Before joining the GMBA program, I explored a variety of roles—office administrator, bookkeeper, bank teller, and English teacher—yet I hadn’t discovered a clear career direction. Seeking a fresh start, I decided to return to school. While researching English MBA programs in Taiwan, I found NTU GMBA to be the best fit. Applying and being accepted marked a pivotal turning point in my career journey.

 

Learning Beyond the Classroom

 

One of the most rewarding aspects of the GMBA was collaborating with classmates from diverse nationalities. Group projects, presentations, and discussions allowed me to learn from different perspectives.
 

Beyond academics, I contributed to the Student Council, helping organize events and coordinate Dragon Boat and basketball teams—experiences that strengthened friendships and community spirit.
 

Outside of campus, I served as Vice President of Education at Prestige Toastmasters Club, honing my leadership and public speaking skills. Invited a few GMBA classmates to my Toastmasters club.
 

During my first summer, I interned at HTC in Sales & Marketing, where our team produced social media videos to promote products. The highlight was winning first place in a VR proposal competition with our idea for VR Real Estate.

In my second year, I reignited my passion for jazz by joining the Taipei Jazz Youth Orchestra, rehearsing weekly with professional jazz educators.

 

Discovering Human Resources

 

Professor Steve Hsieh’s Human Resources and Organizational Behavior course sparked my interest in HR and ultimately shaped my career path. Since graduating, I’ve built nearly a decade of experience in Talent Acquisition. Today, I work as a Senior Recruiter at Supermicro in Zhonghe, supporting hiring for our San Jose headquarters. I also share insights regularly on my Facebook page, HR Steve.

 

Advice for Current GMBA Students

 

Use your time in the program to explore new interests and step outside your comfort zone. Whether it’s taking courses like ESG, learning Chinese, or traveling across Asia, these experiences enrich your journey. Some students even pursue exchange programs in Japan.
 

I recommend pursuing an internship during your first year or summer break—it can open doors to future opportunities. My own post-graduation role came about because HR remembered me from my internship.
 

Build connections with classmates and alumni. Many work at leading multinational companies across industries. Coffee chats and conversations can provide valuable insights into career paths and opportunities.

 

Looking Back with Gratitude

 

NTU GMBA gave me the foundation for a fulfilling career in HR, equipping me with the skills, confidence, and network to thrive. I remain deeply grateful to the professors, staff, and community who supported me along the way.