Emelie Dahlskold, 27 February, 2023 | QUT Master of Data Analytics student Sally
If you're curious about turning data into insights and exploring a career in data analytics, let us introduce you to Sally, a Statistical Forecast Analyst at Woolworths Group. Sally's job involves improving the accuracy of sales forecasts to ensure that the right amount of stock is delivered to the right store at the right time. But her path to this position was not a straight line.
Sally had always been curious about how data science and analytics shape decision-making, so she decided to pursue a Master of Data Analytics at QUT. She knew it would be a challenging journey since she had no coding experience and no background in mathematics. However, she found the course well-structured, and the teaching team was supportive.
"The course was structured well so that students were gradually introduced to new concepts. Also, the teaching team at QUT is extremely supportive, there were no unanswered questions and students were encouraged to ask lots of questions. The supportive environment made me feel comfortable, and I was able to learn concepts of statistics, and how to code," Sally said.
Her hard work paid off, and she was able to apply what she had learned in her job.
"I personally like the emphasis on the applications of the knowledge rather than the assessment of the knowledge. I was able to apply what I've learnt to my job as a Statistical Forecast Analyst," she said.
Sally's career highlights include being a finalist for the Team Member of the Year Award 2022. Her employer, Woolworths Group, provides many career development opportunities, flexible working arrangements including working from home, and an inclusive organizational culture.
If you're considering studying a postgraduate degree at QUT, Sally's advice is to focus on the application of knowledge. "If you have a job in the field already, linking the course content to real-world work scenarios can be helpful for your learning and career development," she said.
Sally's journey shows that with hard work, determination, and a supportive learning environment, you too can pursue a career in the ever-evolving field of data science and analytics. So go ahead, take the leap, and follow your curiosity. As Sally puts it, "there are many opportunities in data analytics, and it is a field with a lot of potential for growth."
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