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Balancing Work and Study in Aviation — Eng See Tong’s MDIS Journey

For many professionals in the aviation industry, the thought of going back to school raises an important question: can I really balance work, life and study? For Eng See Tong, the answer was a resounding yes. With determination, discipline, and the right programme, he proved that it’s possible to pursue higher education without putting a full-time career on hold.

Eng, now a proud graduate of the Bachelor of Arts (Hons) Airline and Airport Management (Top-up) at the Management Development Institute of Singapore (MDIS), awarded by Teesside University, UK, shares his journey — from his passion for aviation to the challenges of part-time study, and how the degree has shaped his career and personal growth.

From Fascination to Ambition

Airports have always been more than transit points for Eng — to him, they represent opportunities, connections, and the heartbeat of global travel. “I’ve always been captivated by aviation, by how airports bring people, businesses and economies together,” he reflects. This passion soon grew into a career ambition: to play a meaningful role in the fast-paced aviation sector.

Having already completed a Diploma in Aviation Management at a polytechnic, Eng had built a solid foundation in airline operations and safety management. But he knew that to move forward, he needed more than technical knowledge. He wanted to sharpen his strategic thinking, enhance his managerial skills, and prepare himself for leadership roles in the aviation industry.

Why MDIS and Teesside University?

“When I was exploring my options, I knew I needed a university that understood the challenges of working adults,” Eng explains. “MDIS offered the flexibility I needed to continue my job while studying. And with Teesside University as its partner, I could earn a UK-awarded degree with a curriculum that was practical, industry-focused, and tailored to aviation.”

The programme gave him exactly that. Covering topics such as airline and airport operations, safety and service management, and strategic leadership, Eng found himself applying classroom concepts directly to real-world scenarios. “It wasn’t just theory,” he shares. “It was about understanding how airports and airlines operate globally, and recognising how strong management can drive efficiency and growth.”

Balancing Work and Study

Managing a full-time job while studying part-time wasn’t easy. “There were definitely moments where it felt overwhelming,” Eng admits. “Juggling work responsibilities with assignments and exams, especially during peak periods, required a lot of discipline.”

To stay on track, he relied on careful planning and consistency. He broke tasks into smaller steps, dedicated evenings and weekends to coursework, and prioritised effectively. “It taught me resilience — to keep going even when things got tough. Those skills weren’t just useful for school; they’ve made me more efficient and adaptable at work too.”

Overcoming Challenges

One of the toughest parts for Eng was meeting deadlines during high-pressure periods at work. “It was stressful at times, but by staying disciplined and managing my time well, I learned to adapt quickly,” he recalls. This experience helped him develop confidence in handling pressure — a skill he now carries into both his professional and personal life.

Growth Beyond the Classroom

Looking back, Eng says the degree changed him in more ways than one. “Academically, it gave me the knowledge and confidence to take on bigger responsibilities. Personally, it taught me discipline, time management, and how to balance study, work and family life.”

He also credits his support system. “My colleagues were understanding, and my family gave me constant encouragement. Their support was invaluable — it made the whole journey possible.”

Advice for Aspiring Aviation Professionals

For those considering a similar path, Eng has clear advice:
“Pick a course that truly aligns with your interests and long-term career goals. Once you commit, give it your all. Don’t procrastinate — plan your schedule, stay disciplined, and be consistent. That’s the key to balancing work, study and life successfully.”

Ready for the Future

With his degree completed, Eng is excited to take on new challenges in the aviation industry. “The knowledge and skills I’ve gained have prepared me to step into more strategic roles and contribute at a higher level. Earning my degree part-time taught me resilience and opened doors I never thought possible — especially in transitioning back into roles with greater responsibility,” he shares. For Eng, this degree isn’t just an academic achievement — it’s a springboard for growth in a field he’s passionate about.

For aspiring professionals like Eng, MDIS continues to provide flexible, industry-focused programmes that bridge theory with practice, preparing graduates for future workforce demands.