About Sai
Previous University: SRM Institute of Science and Technology
Undergraduate Degree: Bachelor of Technology
Q: Could you tell us about your background?
A: After undergrad, I began working in various industries experimenting with client-facing and coding roles. This experience made me realize that I wanted a career that used both business and coding skills, which led me to a degree in business analytics.
Q: Why did you choose to pursue your graduate degree at D'Amore-McKim?
A: Since I already have a background in computer science, I was looking for a graduate program that offered business strategy and marketing courses. After a lot of research, it was clear that Northeastern's MS in Business Analytics was the perfect fit for combining my interests in data and marketing. The Graduate Career Center is also very impressive, and I have heard a lot about the success of the graduate co-op program. The courses are a good fit, the career center is great, and it's in Boston. I knew this would be a good place to make connections.
Q: What inspired you to make a career change from computer science?
A: While I do enjoy coding, working with data, and solving those types of puzzles, I wanted to explore the business side where decisions are made. Data often powers and enables outcomes, and business analytics marries my two interests and allows me to be a part of that process. Data-powered decision-making is where the world is headed and where I want to go.
Q: Can you tell us about your graduate co-op work at T-Mobile?
A: As a business intelligence analyst co-op, I work with a lot of data. I update and add new features to T-Mobile's analytical insight tools used by the enterprise marketing, campaign, and field marketing teams. We then create visualizations to help the company target specific accounts and understand the data. We also generate report briefs for leadership that help them understand customer pain points.
My MS in Business Analytics courses have helped me become comfortable with data analysis. My previous work experience taught me to make data more digestible for computers, but my time in the program has shown me how to do the same for people. Learning to analyze data for people and businesses has made me successful in this co-op position.
Q: How has Northeastern prepared you for after graduation?
A: After graduation, I intend to continue working in a position like my current one, comprehensive data, and business marketing. The Graduate Career Center provided me with personal attention and guided me when I was unsure about looking for jobs or wanting to learn how to approach an offer.
My future career will require me to be able to speak the language of my coworkers and customers. During my time here, I've been encouraged to draft business reports, present them, and talk about my findings which has helped me gain the confidence to communicate effectively. The program and university staff here at Northeastern has been instrumental in preparing me for the future.
Q: What advice would you share with future students?
A: Take breaks. Master's courses can get quite intense, and we are provided with many opportunities like graduate co-op, jobs, and courses; there is a lot to do. This program has made me more confident and allowed me to make lifelong friends and connections. It's important to work hard while also learning how to relieve stress and take it easy sometimes.
