SuccessBeyond

I’ve always had a passion for technology, and I enrolled in the Bachelor of Commerce – Business Technology Management program at Seneca because of its strong reputation for combining business management principles with technology and statistics.

My experience at Seneca was enriching. The classes were engaging and provided practical knowledge that I could apply in real-world scenarios. The program specifically helped me find my love for artificial intelligence and statistics. The professors were knowledgeable and supportive and my classmates contributed to a collaborative learning environment. The campus environment was conducive to personal and academic growth.

Graduating from Seneca was a proud moment for me. It signified the culmination of hard work and the beginning of new opportunities.

Yes. I founded and led the Seneca Technology Business Group as the president. Through this experience, I developed skills in leadership, team management, budgeting and strategic planning, which have been invaluable in both my academic and professional pursuits.

My decision to continue my education after completing my degree was influenced by a desire to further specialize in the field of data science. The growing prominence of artificial intelligence reinforced my decision to pursue a master's in data science, recognizing its pivotal role in advancing technology and solving complex challenges. I recognized the increasing demand for professionals with advanced skills in machine learning and pursuing a master's degree seemed like the logical next step to enhance my knowledge and expertise in this area.

I was influenced to pursue the field of data science at a master's level due to its interdisciplinary nature and its relevance across various industries. The ability to derive insights from data and make decisions is becoming increasingly important in today's digital age and I saw pursuing a master's degree as a pathway to acquiring advanced skills and staying competitive in the job market.

My Seneca degree program provided me with a strong foundation in statistics and data analytics, which included coursework in areas such as database management, business analytics and programming. These foundational skills were instrumental in preparing me for the more advanced coursework and research projects in my master's in data science and analytics at Toronto Metropolitan University.

The transition from a degree to a master's program involved a shift towards more specialized and research-oriented coursework. Unlike undergraduate studies, where the focus is often on gaining a broad understanding of various subjects, the master's program delved deeper into specific topics within the field of data science.

Graduate students are held to a higher standard in terms of grading and work, with a completely different grade scale. There is an increased emphasis on independent research, critical thinking and the application of advanced analytical techniques.

Having both an undergraduate degree and a master's degree provides a competitive edge in the job market by demonstrating a higher level of expertise and specialization in a particular field. Furthermore, a master's unlocks pathways to assuming more advanced roles with increased responsibilities and leadership potential, particularly in domains deeply rooted in mathematics, programming and machine learning, thus positioning individuals at the forefront of innovation and problem-solving in the digital era.

My advice for someone considering pursuing a master's degree is to carefully research and choose a program that aligns with their career goals and interests. It's essential to be prepared for the academic rigour and time commitment required for graduate studies and to leverage resources such as faculty mentors, industry connections and internship opportunities to maximize the learning experience.

Balancing work, school and life requires effective time management, prioritization and self-care. It's crucial to establish a structured schedule, define achievable objectives and allocate time wisely for academic pursuits, professional commitments, personal rejuvenation and social engagements. Also, perseverance during challenging times and holding oneself accountable is important. Remember, even in moments of adversity, never surrender to defeat, always seek support from mentors, peers and loved ones and maintain an unwavering focus on your aspirations, no matter how daunting they may appear.

Currently, I am working as an Accident & Sickness Benefits Advisor at TD Bank, while pursuing my master of science degree in data science & analytics at Toronto Metropolitan University. I am actively engaged in analyzing data, contributing to project development and furthering my education to enhance my skills and expertise in data science. Additionally, I have the privilege of learning from top industry scientists and professors, immersing myself in the emerging world of artificial intelligence and machine learning.

In the short term, I am starting my major research at the university this spring. I aim to tackle pressing global issues using advanced machine learning methods.

Looking ahead, my long-term vision encompasses assuming leadership roles in data science, spearheading innovative projects and using data-driven insights to address intricate business challenges and making a profound and lasting impact in the field.