Joseph Loh was born in Malaysia and moved across the world to the U.S. at a young age. After completing a liberal arts degree, dabbling in music, law, journalism, and neuroscience, and working in banking for a few years, Joseph started wanting a change and to jumpstart a new career. He decided to pivot to Dalhousie’s Corporate Residency MBA program after a referral from MBA alumnus Anthony Tintinalli.

Joseph completed his 8-month corporate residency from January to August of this year at Narrative Research as a Research Analyst. Narrative Research transforms data into market insights needed to improve the development of companies around the world. “Since starting the program, I discovered that I not only wanted to accelerate my career growth, but I was also looking for a job that is meaningful: one that brings positive change and makes a difference to my community,” says Joseph. “Not only did the firm’s values and work align with my interests and passions, the team and work culture at Narrative complemented me perfectly.” He adds that the company takes care of their employees, creating a healthy, balanced, and inspiring working environment.

While working at Narrative Research, Joseph built and expanded his network with professionals in the same sector and in other departments. He had the opportunity to meet Emma Power (CRMBA 2021), Nicholas Thompson (CRMBA 2018), and many others who have inspired him to pursue higher education and become passionate about data science. “I am especially grateful to Tony, Emma, and Nick for leading me to where I am today. My experience taught me that feeling hungry to prove myself isn’t necessarily a sign of discontent. For me it was a sign of preparedness, of wanting to achieve more because I was ready for more, preventing me from falling into complacency.”

As for advice for other students, Joseph shares his opinion on the importance of networking. “Take advantage of MCS to meet employers and industry professionals.” He also notes the value of motivation. “Be honest with yourself, do what makes you genuinely happy, do your research, and connect with people. Find out what motivates you to get out of bed on a Monday morning! Once you find that passion, that drive, that feeling, hold on to it and work towards it consistently.”

Instagram: @josephlwa

Pronouns: He/Him