Ahmad Musyaffaq Bin Ahmad Mazhar
Master of IT in Business (Analytics)
August 2023 Intake
Data has always fascinated me – not just as a set of numbers but as a powerful tool to drive meaningful business decisions. I recognised the growing demand for professionals who could bridge the gap between technology and business strategy. This realisation led me to enrol in the Master of IT in Business (MITB) programme while pursuing a BSc in Computing & Law at SMU. My goal? To bridge the gap between technology and business strategy and leverage data science and AI to create real-world impact.
MITB stood out to me for its distinctive integration of technical expertise and business acumen. At MITB, I wasn’t just learning how to build machine learning models. I was learning how to ask the right questions, analyse problems through a strategic lens, and craft data solutions that address real business needs.The interactive teaching style, industry-relevant curriculum, and strong network of faculty and professionals gave me confidence that this was the right place to sharpen my skills and expand my perspective.
Theory came to life during my internships at GXS and Infineon Technologies. At GXS, I served as a Data Governance Intern, where I grappled with the critical nuances of managing and safeguarding data in a highly regulated environment. Later, at Infineon, I took on the role of Data Scientist Intern, using AI tools to streamline internal operations and enhance business efficiencies. A key takeaway from these experiences is that data and AI are merely tools—the true value lies in how they address business inefficiencies and improve decision-making. Understanding the bigger picture helps in recognising the broader impact of projects and the value they contribute to an organisation.
One of the most rewarding challenges I faced was in the CS611 Machine Learning Engineering course, where my team and I built and deployed a machine learning model. We had to navigate the complexities of deployment, ensure scalability, and align our solution with user needs. The experience reinforced the importance of collaboration, adaptability, and leveraging technology for business impact. Despite initial roadblocks, we successfully delivered a working solution that generated actionable insights. This hands-on experience was a defining moment that deepened both my technical capability and strategic thinking.
What I appreciate most about MITB is the community. I’ve met so many driven, like-minded individuals from different industries and backgrounds, all united by a shared goal to create impact through technology. The diversity of thought and experience has made every classroom discussion richer and more dynamic. I’m also grateful to have learned from outstanding professors, particularly Associate Professor Dai Bing Tian, whose tough but rewarding classes laid a strong technical foundation that I continue to build on today.
As technology evolves, the world will need professionals who can think across disciplines—people who understand both the language of data and the priorities of business. That’s exactly what MITB prepares you for. Whether it’s a role in data science, product management, or tech consulting, I believe MITB graduates are uniquely positioned to lead change. Personally, I’m excited to continue building a career in data science where I can solve meaningful problems and contribute to innovation.
If you're considering MITB, it is important to understand what your goals are and what you want to achieve. MITB is rich with opportunities—specialised electives, real-world projects, and a powerful network. Dive deep into your interests, and don’t be afraid to reach out and collaborate with others. Some of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned came from conversations outside the classroom.
Above all, stay curious and keep your end goal in sight. MITB is more than a degree—it’s a launchpad for where you want to go.
