Aishwarya Krishna Prasad
Master of IT in Business (Analytics)
Class of 2022
Senior Data Engineer
Singapore Airlines
I have a profound interest in data analytics and artificial intelligence. In the beginning, I did a lot of self-studying by reading online resources and taking various courses. However, I soon realised the need for a more structured and comprehensive education, leading me to enrol in SMU’s Master of IT in Business. The programme’s comprehensive curriculum allowed me to specialise in Analytics while also taking modules in Artificial Intelligence, thereby enhancing my proficiency in both fields.
During my studies, I interned at UPS as a Data Science intern, where I worked on Customer Churn Analytics and Sentiment Analytics projects. This experience allowed me to see through the entire project lifecycle—from data collection and feature engineering to model training and automation. The knowledge and skills I gained from modules, such as Applied Machine Learning, Natural Language Processing, and Data Analytics Lab, were directly applicable and immensely beneficial during my internship.
Before graduating, I secured a position as a Data Scientist at Pace Enterprise, a Buy-Now-Pay-Later startup, through a Virtual Career Fair organised by SMU. This opportunity enabled me to engage in the full spectrum of data science workflows, from data engineering to data modeling, which is vital in the dynamic environment of a startup.
Throughout my journey, I received immense support from my career counsellors, Dr Guo Yanru and Ms Dawn Tan. Not only did they provide tips on refining my resume to improve my job prospects, they also provided substantial emotional support during the uncertain economic climate of the COVID-19 pandemic. This support was especially significant for me as an international student in Singapore. Additionally, the programme manager, Ms Ang Siew Hoon, provided essential guidance and reassurance, which was also crucial in many administrative aspects of my experience in MITB, including my decision to join the programme.
My experience with Professor Dai Bing Tian and Professor Kam Tin Seong was both challenging and immensely rewarding. Their courses often require many late nights working on assignments. However, these rigorous academic challenges were crucial in deepening my understanding and shaping my professional capabilities. They were always available to clarify doubts related to course content or to provide career guidance. The professors and staff not only enriched my learning experience but also played a pivotal role in my ability to secure job positions related to data science and analytics, and more recently, in my current role as a Senior Data Engineer at SIA.
The MITB programme has bridged the gap between Analytics, AI and Engineering for me, instilling confidence in my professional capabilities. I am grateful for the guidance from knowledgeable professors and the support of my peers, who managed their careers and personal lives while excelling in their studies.
To prospective students considering the MITB programme, I advise you to embrace the challenge. Explore a variety of modules, even those that might seem daunting at first. Under the guidance of our distinguished professors, you will find that these challenges lead to rewarding outcomes and are well worth the effort.
