A ‘transformative experience’ building data skills and lasting relationships

Why did you choose Brandeis International Business School?

I came to Brandeis with a creative background in digital marketing and communications and pretty much no prior coding exposure. The Master of Science in Business Analytics (MSBA) program stood out as the right fit for me to pivot to a more data-driven career path. The MSBA’s core curriculum and diverse electives gave me confidence that I could jump right into the world of data analytics and understand domain-specific applications to support my next career move.

How would you describe the MSBA program?

The MSBA is a rigorous yet incredibly rewarding program. For individuals with minimal prior experience in coding and quantitative methods, it provides a great starting point to learning important concepts in data visualization, statistics and machine learning. The coursework itself is well structured and paced to help build on more advanced topics, while also emphasizing practical application through hands-on data projects — this was a great addition to my technical portfolio!

How did your coursework prepare you for your internship?

My MSBA classes helped me develop core competencies in statistical modeling, data visualization and predictive analytics, all of which I applied extensively during my internship at a Boston-based biotechnology company. I also developed a growing interest in the healthcare industry. To deepen my understanding, I enrolled in Healthcare Analytics and Data Mining electives at the Heller School of Social Policy and Management. These courses provided practical applications of my analytics skills within the U.S. healthcare market, bringing me up to speed with the terminology and nuances of the field.

How would you describe the career support at the business school?

The Career Strategies and Engagement Center is one of the most proactive and supportive departments on campus. Before my classes even began, my Career Coach helped get my resume in shape to kickstart my internship search the following summer. The Careers team also really emphasizes immersive learning experiences like Industry Treks and other fun events like speed networking sessions. Technical skills are obviously important, but these interactions helped me strengthen my equally crucial soft skills in networking, communication and professionalism.

How would you describe the community at the business school?

The sense of community at Brandeis is amazing. As an international student, I could feel it from across two continents even before deciding to enroll. When I finally arrived on campus, I realized that what I felt was just the tip of the iceberg. The International Business School is defined by its warm and welcoming embrace of diversity — in culture, thought and background. My classmates came from a wide array of countries, educational experiences and industry expertise, yet they were also some of the most thoughtful, kind and respectful individuals I’ve ever met. I owe it to the community here that has broadened my perspective on the world but also gifted me with lifelong bonds and friendships

How did your time at Brandeis prepare you for your career?

Inside the classroom, I was fortunate to learn from renowned faculty who helped build my strong foundations in econometrics, machine learning, analytics and business strategy. I also learned so much by exploring real-world datasets and business cases during group projects and peer discussions. Finally, the Brandeis alumni network was a vital resource in preparing me for my career. The willingness of alumni to provide guidance and insights helped steer me in the right direction regarding course selection, focus areas and the skills and tools I needed to succeed in the workplace.

What advice do you have for prospective students?

Think of your business school journey as more than just earning another degree — it’s a transformative experience that shapes your ideals, work ethic and aspirations for the future. At Brandeis, you’ll be surrounded by an incredibly smart and diverse community that will challenge you to think in new ways and help you develop essential skills that extend far beyond the classroom. Stay resilient, remain open to growth and embrace the resources, learning and unforgettable memories you’ll create here.