When I volunteered for a topic that was exciting, but new to me…my senior tech lead gave me his full support….[This] allowed me to follow my own path and add a new, cutting-edge skill.
My Path to McKinsey
I graduated as a computer scientist and started my career as a developer in a local software company. About nine months after starting my first job, I went back to pursue my PhD in Computer Science. I worked as a computational research scientist for two years and in the software industry for another two before joining McKinsey.
Charting your own course at McKinsey
At one point, I felt that I had not been challenging myself enough. So I volunteered for a topic that was exciting, but new to me. Without hesitation, my senior tech lead gave me his full support. I am grateful, because it allowed me to follow my own path and add a new, cutting-edge skill.
Developing professionally
I have always been the quiet person who prefers to do my own work in my own corner, content with delivering what is asked of me. Since joining McKinsey, I have taken on a more proactive role, especially in communicating with clients and team members. In the process, I have learned that I am not introverted after all! This exposure has developed my leadership and communication skills and sharpened my problem-solving skills.
Work environment and collaboration
We are a diverse group at McKinsey. But we all have the same goal – to deliver impact for our clients. Everyone works together in the same direction, putting aside personal differences, while supporting and helping each other.
The People at McKinsey
My colleagues are immensely talented. One colleague left a strong impression on me –because she is smart and she’s an Olympic swimmer. Another colleague is very senior at the firm. Despite his rank and tenure, he is very humble and pushes for diversity and inclusion, especially for women in tech.
Advice for those considering McKinsey
Two things: (1) Be ready for changes and challenges. Embrace them with an open mind and heart, because these changes help you grow. (2) Be bold and take ownership of your own path. You really can make your own McKinsey here.
Education
University of Nottingham Malaysia Campus
PhD, computer science
BSc, computer science