After serving five years in the US Navy, he enlisted in the US Army, serving in OEF/OIF operations. Upon retirement from the military, Joseph began taking classes at the Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI), receiving his Associate's Degree in Legal Studies. He graduated from Roger Williams University (RWU), where he earned a degree as a Paralegal with an emphasis in litigation and intellectual property rights. During his last semester at RWU, Joseph worked as a substitute teacher for the West Warwick school department and found a passion for teaching. Joseph continued his advocacy and commitment to Veterans, service members, and their families by becoming the URI Student Veteran Organization president at URI.