About Mannat
Previous University: University of Nottingham Trent (Undergrad), University of North Texas (Master's)
Undergraduate Degree: Fashion Styling and Image Design
Master's Degree (Previous): Merchandising and Digital Retailing, Consumer Experience
Q: Why did you decide to pursue a Master's in Business Analytics?
A: I've always been passionate about fashion. I started designing my own clothes at a young age, and at 16, I decided to turn my passion into a lucrative business, so I started a clothing brand. Now, I'm focused on retail and customer goods, with my ultimate career goal of owning a retail company. To achieve this, I knew I needed to be knowledgeable about data and improve my technical skills to better identify opportunities to improve my business processes. Northeastern's program was my top choice because of its extensive curriculum that would enable me to learn to use relevant data tools and technology. I knew this program would improve my capabilities as a future entrepreneur.
Q: How can analytics help brands create positive customer experiences?
A: Big data allows companies to interact with all kinds of data about their consumers and learn what influences their behavior. Effectively using this data requires analytical tools and procedures to make the right deductions and predictions about customer experiences. Learning about marketing research and marketing analytics has boosted my ability to tailor my brand's products and marketing strategy to meet consumer needs.
Q: What are your goals after this program?
A: My short-term goal is to get my PhD, so I can teach marketing or analytics at the college level. This will provide me greater knowledge and a wider network needed to launch my retail business. I am working towards this by carrying out marketing and data analytics research with my professors. This summer, I accepted a job conducting marketing research with a Northeastern professor. This research role will give me experience applying the knowledge I've gained from the program, and it will prepare me for my future in academia and as an entrepreneur in the fashion industry.
Q: Do you have any advice for prospective students considering this program?
A: Don't hesitate to apply for the program if you don't have experience dealing with data or business. I was initially concerned that it would be difficult navigating the program due to my fashion background, but that was not the case when I started. The first semester provided a firm foundation and introduction to business analytics which made the entire learning process in the program seamless for beginners.
