Joyce Wu, Rotman MBA Class of 2025
Joyce Wu, Rotman MBA Class of 2025Age: 29
Hometown: Hong Kong
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Hong Kong Baptist University, Communications
Pre-MBA Work Experience (role, company, years): Investor Relations, Tencent, 4 years; Consultant, FTI Consulting, 2 years
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
Attending business school is a unique opportunity to dedicate two years to explore new horizons, meet diverse people, and acquire skills that might otherwise be out of reach. After seven years in the workforce, I felt it was the perfect moment to indulge in this luxury.
Why did you choose Toronto Rotman? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
Diversity played a pivotal role in my choice. I aspired to interact with peers whose life experiences and skill sets differed from my own. I also sought a program that offered both academic rigor and a rich array of extracurricular activities, which would allow me to upskill in various dimensions and enrich my overall experience.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2025?
Every individual brings a unique contribution to the community by simply being themselves. For me, it’s the amalgamation of finance, tech business, and communication expertise that gives me a different perspective.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
I enjoy both scuba diving and paragliding.
Post-MBA career interests:
Asset management
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
Schedule a call with the admission team before applying to gain deeper insights into the program. Also take time to reflect on my core values are and how I intend to shape these two years.
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
I would have reached out more to current students for first-hand information about the program experience.
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
Frankly, I wouldn’t skip any part of the application journey. It has been an enjoyable and inspiring process. It allowed me to better understand myself and recognize that it was the experiences in my past life that have made me who I am today.
What is your initial impression of the Toronto Rotman students/culture/community?
The community is remarkably diverse and incredibly supportive. Students, alumni, professors, career coaches and faculty members are always willing to help and grow with you. All it takes is to reach out.
What is one thing you have learned about Toronto Rotman that has surprised you?
Honestly, the workload is challenging with so many extracurricular activities (case competitions, networking events, etc.) going on every day. I was also impressed by the wide-ranging database and tool access that Rotman provides. These resources are very helpful in self-directed learning and preparing for real-world challenges.
What is one thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
Perhaps like every MBA candidate, I grapple with the Fear of Missing Out (FOMO). I am equally anxious about discovering my long-term direction and achieving my career transition. I had to remind myself over and over again why I came to Rotman – to take the time to explore new areas and acquire new skills.
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
Being part of an incredible community and learning from my talented peers.
