Joshua Lam
Master of IT in Business (Analytics)
Graduation Class of 2021
Senior Research Scientist, Research Collaborations & Analytics
Health Promotion Board
The MITB programme’s technical coursework, combined with courses on highly transferable skills such as project management, was truly enriching and relevant for the industry. More importantly, I enjoyed the close interaction with faculty members—many of whom possess a wealth of industry experience and we get to learn their perspectives of the latest trends in the industry.
I was truly blessed with the opportunity to be a teaching assistant for Dr. Patrick Thng for the “Strategy and Organisation” course, and a research assistant for Mr. Venkat Narayanan for the “Analytics Framework & Business Context” course. My interactions and discussions with faculty members during my time in these roles have truly expanded my worldview. I also took on the role as a data analyst in a six-sigma project on SMU facilities booking management, working closely alongside SCIS faculty Associate Professor Kam Tin Seong, and Ms. Cristina Elaurza from SMU’s Office of Business Improvement.
I would also like to thank the SMU Career Services Team, especially career coach Ms. Dawn Tan who took time to share with me how career paths in different industries would look like based on her experience with industry practitioners and students. The coaches from various career workshops were highly skilled and gave great feedback on how to succeed in different industries.
Last but not least, the eclectic mix of students from various nationalities and career backgrounds birthed many new friendships and interesting conversations, both within and outside the classroom. The MITB programme challenges each student to broaden their worldview while building a firm grounding to take on an active role in the future digital economy. If you are not afraid of stepping out of your comfort zone, consider joining the MITB programme!
