Supriya Swaminathan

Supriya began her career as a Data Analyst and used the Master of Data Science to develop her skills and further her career. With an industry partnership project on her CV as part of her studies, she had the real world experience to showcase her skills and build up her career.

Why did you choose the University of Melbourne?

It was an easy decision to study science at University of Melbourne. The reputation is earned on the basis of the course structure that is tailored to meet the demands of the industry with an eye on the future. This, for me, sets Melbourne apart as an institution as the hands-on experiences through quality internships and projects with the industry leaders during the course helps shape careers in the best possible way

Why did you want to study a Master of Data Science?

The journey with data science started at my work place where I was involved in analysing large volumes of data and preparing reports with the help of various data visualisation techniques. This continued to interest me as I kept learning more about the advancements in the world of big data analytics. The natural progression was to grab the opportunity to study Masters in Data Sciences at Melbourne. The course structure offered including Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning continues to feed my ever-growing passion in this field of Data Science.

What has been your favourite experience in the Master of Data Science?

The data science project that I have undertaken currently as part of my final semester curriculum has so far been my favourite experience as a science student here at Melbourne. I am working on this project with a leading fibreboard manufacturer in Australia. I am applying the machine learning techniques on large real time data sets to derive data driven insights that can solve real world business problems and provide optimal results to the stakeholders. This experience is not limited to technical skills but also sharpens my communication skills where I convert business problems provided to me by the clients into technical solution and in turn present it in the business language format that the clients are most comfortable with.

What was the Master of Data Science course like?

The course structure of Data Science combines the best of both worlds - statistics and computer science. This will present opportunities to learn new skills in an extremely competitive environment. While the competition helps you thrive, the culture and curriculum is designed to challenge your abilities like no other. It is, hence, very important to be willing to continue exploring the new avenues that come your way.

Strong communication skills will help you evolve as a professional. Understanding methods to tell stories effectively with the help of data is considered a niche skill in the industry. The University of Melbourne will provide you with lots of opportunities to make presentations to large audiences during this course. The University also motivates students by offering graduate scholarships that serve as a deserved recognition for all high performing students across science and research. If you are deeply passionate about the technology you want to explore further, do not hesitate to start your journey with Uni Melb.