The Beginning of a Solo Adventure<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n My journey began on December 27, 2022, when I arrived at JFK Airport, welcomed by my cousin. After exploring parts of New York City, she dropped me off in Syracuse, where I embarked on an independent adventure. Adjusting to university life, building friendships, and securing an on-campus job presented challenges I faced with determination. From the outset, my goal was to apply my data science skills in professional settings while upholding integrity and the core values of the iSchool.<\/p>\n\n\n\n My first job at an on-campus convenience store was a small but significant milestone. Additionally, working at the Dome and dining halls taught me resilience and adaptability. These roles, though sometimes demanding, reinforced my perseverance and character. One key takeaway from these experiences is the importance of prioritizing academics. While part-time jobs help manage expenses, aligning work with one\u2019s field of study is crucial. Temporary earnings should never come at the cost of upskilling and career growth\u2014an insight I often share with new students.<\/p>\n\n\n\n A Challenging but Rewarding Start<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n In my first semester, I enrolled in Data Analysis and Decision Making (DADM)<\/em>, Introduction to Database Management Systems (DBMS)<\/em>, and Introduction to Information and Decision Systems (IDS)<\/em>. While I had some prior exposure to these subjects, DADM stood out as it revisited machine learning and statistics concepts from my undergraduate studies. However, the course emphasized foundational understanding through accessible tools like Excel, reinforcing core principles in an intuitive manner.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Academic Milestones and Real-World Applications<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n My second semester was particularly enriching, with courses such as Financial Analytics<\/em>, Applied Machine Learning<\/em>, and Quantitative Analysis<\/em>. One of the most impactful experiences was collaborating with a startup on a gestational diabetes prediction project. By analyzing parameters like age, family history, and lifestyle, the project aimed to transition from diagnosis to prognosis, showcasing the potential of machine learning in healthcare.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In July 2023, I took on the role of Data Analysis Support Assistant at the Center for International Services. Working with sensitive student data deepened my understanding of data integrity, privacy, compliance, and confidentiality. Gaining insights into the lifecycle of an international student, from the I-20 process to graduation, was truly eye-opening. Being nominated as Graduate Student Employee of the Year<\/em> for this role was an honor that reflected my dedication.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Leadership Through a Summer College Internship<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n As a Spring-start student, the summer posed unique challenges since I was not eligible to work for an internship for first summer. However, I secured a role with the Office of Pre-College Programs, where I managed a team of over 60 staff members across two summers. This role tested my leadership skills and resilience as I collaborated with senior colleagues and engaged with diverse perspectives, including members of the LGBTQ community. Working with such a varied team broadened my outlook and strengthened my ability to navigate different professional environments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n During this time, I was also invited to serve as a panelist for orientation sessions, sharing my experiences with incoming students. Transitioning from an attendee to a speaker was a significant milestone, allowing me to give back to the community that shaped my journey.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Bridging Academic Learning with Real-World Applications<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n In my final year, courses such as Big Data Analytics<\/em> and Business Analytics<\/em> equipped me with the tools to undertake impactful projects. As part of Visual Analytics Dashboard<\/em>, led by Professor Raj Deewan, I collaborated with friends to build a dashboard, enhancing my ability to translate data into meaningful insights.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Additionally, a course on Building Human-Centered AI Apps<\/em> by Professor Jeff Saltz expanded my perspective, inspiring me to pitch a project to the Office of Pre-College Programs. In my role as a Data & Technology Specialist for Fall 2024, I applied my academic learning to real-world scenarios. I collaborated with directors to develop an automated residential forecast system, streamlining processes and saving two hours of daily manual work. I also launched a multilingual chatbot powered by Generative AI, significantly reducing call volume and improving operational efficiency for a pilot group of 60 users. Furthermore, I designed an interactive zip code map for a $100,000 targeted email campaign, leveraging data insights to maximize outreach and impact.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Beyond this, I was part of the iConsult Collaborative, where I worked with the Albany-based company Pharify.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Blending Creativity with Academics<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Beyond academics, I explored music with my friend Jimbo at the Barnes Center and participated in Desi performances, where I had the opportunity to showcase my cultural heritage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n A Journey of Gratitude and Growth<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n As I graduate, I am filled with immense pride for the journey I have undertaken. I am especially grateful to my parents\u2014we made it! Syracuse University has been a place of learning, growth, and connection. To all incoming students, particularly those starting in the Spring: embrace the challenges and opportunities this unique journey offers. Growth comes from pushing boundaries, building relationships, and staying true to your aspirations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n I remain committed to helping students and actively collaborate with iSchool Career Services to mentor international students, sharing my experiences to help them navigate their professional journeys. My time at Syracuse has been defined by a dedication to ethical, impactful, and innovative data solutions. Currently, I am working as a Data Scientist with Wipro and its client, Humana, gaining deeper insights into the healthcare industry.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Read the original post here: https:\/\/ischool.syracuse.edu\/a-journey-of-growth-and-resilience-my-two-years-at-syracuse-university\/<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"Data](\"https:\/\/ischool.syracuse.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/Picture2-300x168.jpg\")
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