I was born and raised in India, where my passion for science and technology was sparked by my father, an innovative engineer who has spearheaded numerous groundbreaking projects. From a young age, I was captivated by his stories illustrating how scientific advancements have profoundly impacted humanity, igniting a passion for exploration and discovery. This early fascination guided me towards a path in Computer Engineering at the University of Pune, where I earned my bachelor’s degree in engineering. Eager to further enhance my knowledge and delve deeper into Data Science, Machine Learning, and AI, I pursued an MS in Computer Science degree at the University of Cincinnati. During my time there, I engaged in thesis research on ML, NLP, and AI, culminating in developing a novel technique to improve document clustering. But that’s not all! I also simultaneously earned an online MBA from University of the People.
But why an MBA
While I was earning my degrees in tech, I recognized the importance of complementing technical expertise with a strong foundation in business acumen. I knew I needed to improve my strategic thinking and gain leadership skills. Therefore, I earned an MBA from University of the People. I aided my technical skills with a strong foundation in business management. I pursued my MBA alongside my MS. It was hectic but this dual academic endeavor equipped me with essential leadership and strategic thinking skills, further enhancing my ability to drive impactful outcomes in data science.
Why UoPeople
I learned about University of the People through extensive research while exploring opportunities to further my education alongside my professional endeavors. As someone deeply passionate about continuous learning and expanding my skill set, I was intrigued by the university’s mission to provide accessible and affordable education to learners worldwide. What initially drew me to UoPeople was its innovative online learning platform and commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive learning community. The flexibility of their programs allowed me to pursue my MBA degree despite my ongoing studies at the University of Cincinnati, without compromising on the quality of education or my professional commitments.
What I Learned in the MBA Program
I gained invaluable insights and skills that have complemented my technical expertise in computer science. The MBA program provided a comprehensive understanding of various facets of business management, including strategic planning, organizational behavior, finance, and marketing. Moreover, the emphasis on practical application and real-world case studies equipped me with tangible skills that I could immediately apply in my professional career.
Bonding and Growing with my Global UoPeople Peers
One of the most significant takeaways from my experience at UoPeople was the opportunity to collaborate with a diverse cohort of students from around the globe. Engaging in discussions and group projects with individuals from different cultural backgrounds and professional experiences enriched my learning experience and broadened my perspectives.
Overall, my experience at University of the People was incredibly enriching. It not only provided me with a solid foundation in business management but also instilled in me a lifelong commitment to continuous learning and personal growth.
How My MBA Transformed My Career
Pursuing an MBA degree has broadened my skill set and enhanced my strategic thinking and leadership abilities. The program equipped me with essential business management principles, including strategic planning, financial analysis, and organizational behavior, which have been invaluable in my role as a Data Scientist and in driving digital transformation initiatives. Overall, my dual academic pursuits have provided me with a unique blend of technical expertise and business acumen, enabling me to approach challenges with a holistic perspective.
Upon graduation, I actively sought out roles that aligned with my passion and expertise in data science. Joining my current organization as a Data Scientist has provided me the opportunity to apply advanced analytics and machine learning techniques to solve complex problems and drive strategic decision-making.
The knowledge and skills acquired through my MBA have not only furthered my career but have also positioned me as a versatile and well-rounded professional capable of driving meaningful impact in the rapidly evolving landscape of technology and data science.
Global Recognition
Beyond my professional endeavors, I am deeply committed to advancing digital transformation through AI. I actively contribute to research, with multiple publications spanning AI, NLP, Machine Learning, data analytics, and Business Intelligence.
My contributions have garnered global recognition, including prestigious accolades such as the Global Recognition Award and the International Achievers Award in 2024. Additionally, being named a finalist for The Solution Implementer of the Year Award by The AI Summit in New York in December 2023 powerfully reaffirms my unwavering dedication and pioneering approach to driving transformative change.
My Two Cents for Prospective MBA Students at UoPeople
Having experienced the MBA program firsthand, I would offer the following advice to anyone considering joining:
Embrace and Leverage the Flexibility
One of the greatest advantages of the MBA program at UoPeople is the flexibility you get as a student. Whether you’re a working professional or have other commitments, the online format allows you to pursue your degree at your own pace, making it accessible to individuals from diverse backgrounds and locations. Leverage this advantage to the fullest. Upskill relentlessly and enhance your CV to land job interviews by the time you graduate.
Leverage the Diversity
The MBA program at UoPeople attracts students from various industries, backgrounds, and cultures, providing a rich and diverse learning environment. Take advantage of this diversity by actively engaging with your peers, exchanging ideas, and learning from their experiences. Collaborative learning and networking opportunities are invaluable aspects of the program.
Pursue Practical Learning Opportunities
The MBA program emphasizes practical application and real-world relevance. Take advantage of projects, case studies, and internship opportunities to apply theoretical concepts to practical scenarios. This hands-on experience will not only enhance your understanding but also prepare you for the challenges of the business world.
Stay Open
Overall, joining the MBA program at UoPeople is not just about earning a degree; it’s about investing in your personal and professional growth. Approach the experience with an open mind, a willingness to learn, and a commitment to excellence, and you’ll emerge as a well-rounded and successful business leader.
About the Author
Akshata U. is a Data Scientist at Randstad, USA. In her current role, she leverages her expertise in AI, data science, and business to catalyze transformative changes in the industry. She loves devoting her spare time to volunteering for non-profit organizations and social initiatives where she can use her expertise in Data Science, NLP, and AI to develop solutions that address critical societal challenges. She credits her mother, who instilled in her strong values and compassion towards others for her success in life. She believes that her upbringing in India has been instrumental in her desire for community building. She aspires to participate in shaping the future of data science and AI exploring new frontiers of innovation. She plans on staying committed to driving positive outcomes that benefit individuals, organizations, and communities alike. Additionally, she wants to continue growing as a mentor, empowering the next generation of data scientists and technologists to thrive in a rapidly changing world. She enjoys cooking, reading, hiking, drawing, and painting when not chasing her big dreams. For professional and academic queries, reach out to her via LinkedIn.
