My Journey into Big Data Analytics World

Tom Ziglar once said “Each step in the right direction allows you to see further in that direction”. I can clearly say without a doubt in mind that coming to India for pursuing Analytics and Big Data was indeed a step in the right direction and I count it as one of the best decisions that impacted my life positively. Before M.Sc, I had 2 years of working experience as an ICT consultant in a Consulting firm back in my home country Nigeria. Working as a consultant back then, I had to deal with a lot of data and I guess that was the beginning of my interest in Data. Furthermore, like anybody else, I started reading articles, books, stories, and online posts about handling data smartly and intelligently. All this information ignited my curiosity and I was really excited to be enrolled for the course of Big Data Analytics. The prerequisites stated that I needed to be good in mathematics & statistics and I felt like I had what it takes to be welcomed into the Big Data world. After the desire comes the action, I needed to make up my mind on what to do next, whether to cross the crossroad or to stay and embrace my comfort zone! Thankfully, I came across the GD Goenka University online portal and the admission process was smooth. On reaching the campus I had no issue with adapting to the environment, people and food, as the campus was great and green, staff were friendly and warm, I felt welcomed! Fast forward to my course work in class, I would acknowledge that faculty here is excellent, they helped me explore the world of Data in a professional manner as well as personal level. The professors encouraged us to write academic papers, work on real-life projects, participate in periodic internships with AI companies and lot more. Through this, I have been able to build my leadership and interpersonal skills. Although the journey was not all smooth and I was challenged to improve my skills daily. So, I spent most of the time reading to improve on my skills with materials and facilities provided by the University. It required huge self-motivation, hard work, and discipline. Moreover, I was thrilled to notice that within few months since I entered the world of the big data, my creative level, critical thinking and ability of problem-solving had exponentially increased and all thanks to the my professors. A friend once told me that you have to be smart to study Data Analytics and that only a BIG head can study BIG data. My course combines both Analytics and Big Data, which implies that I needed a big head and a smart mind. Smile... However, I can admit today that I have not always been the smartest in the room, but I have been persistent and determined until I got the solution. Dolly Parton once said that if you want the rainbow, you’ve gotta put up with the rain (which is being hardworking ). To conclude, I would say that my experience so far as a student of big data analytics here at Gd Goenka University has been astounding and fun and I am glad that I have an umbrella to put up with the rain. Initially, it all started with only a desire or dream as one may call it, but then I took a STEP. Dreams do come true. If you are reading this right now, I want to encourage you to take the step in the right direction for your future and remember not to leave the God factor out of your life. Pelumi Abimbola M.Sc, Analytics and Big Data School of Engineering, GD Goenka University