What do you study, and what year are you in?
Master of Data Science, second year.
Who or what made you choose to study this?
My personal journey and experiences influenced my choice to pursue a Master of Data Science. Growing up in an orphanage has instilled in me a deep empathy for those facing adversity. During the COVID-19 pandemic, I felt a strong calling to give back to the institution that profoundly impacted my life. This experience showed me the transformative power of empowerment and ignited a passion to make a lasting difference in the lives of vulnerable children and others navigating challenging circumstances.
The field of data science is evolving. The nature of this field makes it more compelling and appealing. By pursuing a master's degree, I will gain new skills that will allow me to leverage data for businesses better. I can analyse data trends and develop strategic plans for business growth. I want to contribute to the organisation's growth and carve a better future.
With a Master of Science in Data Science, I will be well prepared to face a significant challenge in today's society: how to use the information contained in massive amounts of data being collected in fields such as medicine, finance, the environment, and social media. The Data Science master's program is built on an interdisciplinary foundation in statistics (probability theory, inference, machine learning), computer science (algorithms, visualisation, database), and a solid foundation in general mathematics. Modern data collection is distinguished by volume (the amount of data), variety (the many different types of data, including numbers, text, and videos), and velocity (the dynamic collection and need for processing data). extraction of knowledge and insight from such data necessitates a variety of skills.
Many tools are available, but understanding what they do and how they can be applied or modified to a specific problem necessitates a deep methodological understanding of all topics within the Data Science production chain. This programme will provide me with a theoretical foundation and practical experience, from problem definition to data extraction and preprocessing to analysis and, finally, results presentation.
The programme will be based on projects that address real-world issues in the industry, government, and other scientific disciplines. Finally, this programme will allow me to communicate with business leaders, public figures, and members of the general public, allowing me to improve my interpersonal and professional skills.
Why did you choose to study at UQ?
UQ is a renowned public research institution, and is highly respected worldwide. I have personally witnessed how various student clubs play a pivotal role in helping students break out of their comfort zones. They offer a fantastic platform for skill development and the opportunity to forge lasting friendships.
It's truly remarkable to see how these clubs contribute to students' personal and professional growth.
Furthermore, UQ's vision and mission resonate with my life purpose, which revolves around educating people, advancing knowledge, making a positive impact, and, most importantly, improving the lives of vulnerable children in my home country through education. This alignment is why I aspire to study at UQ.
What do you love most about your degree?
What I love most about my degree is the opportunity to dive deep into a subject I'm truly passionate about. It allows me to explore and understand complex concepts, engage in critical thinking, and develop problem-solving skills. Additionally, my degree program provides a platform for continuous learning and personal growth. I also appreciate connecting with like-minded individuals, learning from knowledgeable professors, and contributing to the field through research and projects. Overall, my degree is a gateway to expanding my knowledge and expertise in an area I'm deeply interested in.
What’s been your favourite course so far, and why?
My favourite course so far has been 'Machine Learning for Data Science.' This course has been incredibly fascinating and relevant to my interests. It delves into machine learning, enabling me to understand how algorithms can learn from data and make predictions or decisions, such as SVM, regression etc. The practical applications of machine learning in various fields, from healthcare to finance, have been eye-opening. I appreciate how this course combines theory with hands-on experience, allowing me to work on real-world projects and apply my knowledge. Overall, 'Machine Learning for Data Science' has been a rewarding and intellectually stimulating journey.
If you could give one piece of advice to someone considering studying at UQ, what would that be?
If I could offer one piece of advice to someone considering studying at UQ, I would encourage you to stay focused on your original purpose and invest in yourself, particularly in building your skills and knowledge.
Studying in a new country, especially as an international student, can be challenging when making friends and connections. However, it's essential to remember why you chose to come to UQ in the first place. Whether it's to pursue a specific academic or career goal, gain a global perspective, or positively impact your community back home, keeping your initial purpose in mind will provide you with the motivation to overcome any hurdles.
Additionally, take into account the value of investing in yourself. Focus on acquiring new skills, both academically and personally. The skills and knowledge you gain during your time at UQ will not only benefit your studies but also open doors to future opportunities. Whether through coursework, research projects, or extracurricular activities, make the most of the resources and support available at UQ to enhance your skill set.
Building a network of friends and connections will naturally follow as you immerse yourself in the academic and social life at UQ. By staying true to your goals and continuously developing yourself, you'll succeed academically, create meaningful connections, and have a transformative experience during your time at the university.
Have you participated in any internships/work? If so tell us a bit about it; what did you enjoy most about the experience?
No, I haven't participated in any internships or work experiences yet. However, I am actively seeking opportunities to further my personal and professional growth.
What do you hope to do when you graduate?
Upon graduation, my primary goal is to apply the knowledge and skills I've acquired in Data Science to make a meaningful impact in the corporate world while contributing to society. Data has emerged as a critical asset in today's business landscape, often likened to the "new oil" that drives organizations across various sectors, including healthcare, finance, and pharmaceuticals.
The expanding scope of data science and related roles in India reflects the growing recognition of the value of data-driven decision-making. The synergy between data science and analytics has become a potent force, enabling organizations to glean valuable insights from the vast amounts of data they collect. This trend holds significant implications for the future of data science as organizations worldwide continue to innovate and leverage data as a strategic tool.
After completing my graduate studies in Data Science, I aim to put my knowledge and expertise into practice in roles at esteemed companies. Pursuing higher education in this field equips me with valuable skills and opens up numerous job opportunities and the potential for competitive compensation packages at some of the world's leading corporations.
Beyond the corporate sphere, I am deeply committed to using my skills to benefit society. One of my core aspirations is to contribute to the well-being of vulnerable children through education and empowerment initiatives. My data science expertise can be crucial in addressing social challenges and positively impacting the lives of those in need. Companies such as Deloitte, IBM, Accenture Analytics, Oracle, and TheMathCompany, known for their commitment to innovation, provide a platform where I can combine my professional aspirations with my passion for societal betterment.
By leveraging my skills and collaborating with like-minded organizations, I aspire to impact society positively, particularly by supporting vulnerable children and addressing critical social issues.
Are you a member of any student societies / participate in extracurricular activities? Tell us a bit about it.
Yes. I am an active member of two student societies, the APS club and UQCS (UQ Computing Society). These extracurricular activities have been a significant part of my university experience and have provided valuable personal and professional development opportunities.
Within the university community, I have also dedicated my time to volunteer work through UQ Union, focusing on the "50-50 Charity Raffle" initiative. This involvement has given me a heightened sense of social responsibility and a deeper understanding of how I can contribute to society. It's gratifying to be part of efforts that support charitable causes and positively impact the community.
Furthermore, I approach every opportunity, whether within student societies or volunteer work, as a platform for self-improvement and growth. These experiences have allowed me to give back to society and enriched my life, fostering a sense of empathy, responsibility, and a desire to upgrade myself continuously.
Being an active member of APS and UQCS, along with my volunteer work, has been a fulfilling aspect of my university journey, allowing me to connect with like-minded individuals, broaden my horizons, and make a meaningful contribution to the community.
Did you achieve the initial ATAR you wanted to get into your chosen program? If not, tell us a bit about your journey as to how you got into the degree you are studying now.
I had an interesting and memorable journey getting to where I am today. Before coming to UQ, I faced a series of challenges. I received rejection letters for my admission applications to universities in the USA, which was a tough time for me. However, I decided to explore other options, and after researching extensively, I chose to enroll at UQ.
As of now, I'm thoroughly enjoying my academic experience here, and I'm eager to explore my professional goals and aspirations further.
