About Sarocha
Current Position: Business Analyst at ConcertAI
Previous University: Paseka School of Business at Minnesota State University Moorhead
Undergraduate Degree: Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a minor in Economics
Q: Tell me about yourself.
A: After my undergraduate degree, I worked as a business partner support associate for Amazon in IT and Technical Assistance. I used data analysis to identify profitable solutions for sellers and merchants. I found using analytics exciting, and I knew I could do more. Ultimately, that's why I decided to pursue a master's degree. I wanted the room to grow my career and build my skills.
Q: Why did you choose to pursue your graduate degree at D'Amore-McKim?
A: I wanted to broaden my technological knowledge in machine learning and predictive analytics and how to apply these insights to business. I chose D'Amore-McKim because of the graduate co-op program and the school's strength in immersive and interactive learning. I was impressed by the technical and practical exposure students gained because of the program's emphasis on experiential learning. I felt excited to join a program where I would be encouraged to apply what I learned.
The D'Amore-McKim MS in Business Analytics program has already been a powerful steppingstone. I built on my understanding of data analysis and learned how to write data reports and provide the results to business stakeholders. I've also gained exposure to data modeling and integration, and I want to work in a role where I can use this knowledge.
Q: You've finished a graduate co-op at Point 32 Health. What was it like?
A: I worked as a business data analyst at Point 32 Health for my graduate co-op. I partnered with vendors to extract and retrieve data while working closely with the data management team holding meetings to discuss our work and act as a project manager. This experience formed an important piece of my business analytics skillset. I enjoyed the hands-on nature of the position. At Point 32 Health, I practiced my technical skills and learned a lot about strategy, modeling, and integration.
Q: How did the Graduate Career Center support you during your program?
A: The Graduate Career Center has been beneficial in preparing me for my future career. In my first semester, the career advisors offered a career management class that helped me build my resumé and cover letter. Attending the Graduate Career Center events and working with my advisor helped me better understand how to present myself and showcase my business analytics skills to future employers. The support I've received will allow me to walk confidently into future interviews and positions.
Q: What are your plans for after graduation?
A: I have accepted a position as a business analyst at Concert AI. After my time in the MS in Business Analytics program, I know I'm prepared to step into this role. I've advanced my data analysis skills, gained management abilities, and built a deeper understanding of statistical and machine learning. I look forward to applying everything I've learned.
Q: What advice would you share with future students?
A: Keep an open mind and be eager to learn every single day. When looking into graduate school, remember to remain true to yourself and pick a program that best aligns with your passions and interests. Trust the process. The professors and students in my program were brilliant and taught me a lot about the world and my intended profession.
