Coming from a Commerce background, and then transitioning into the world of data and technology wasn’t easy at first—but it turned out to be one of the best decisions I made. I still remember the nervous excitement I felt when I opened my first Python file or wrote my first SQL query. It was all new, but I was eager to learn.
During my first few BDS classes, subjects like coding, statistical models, and data cleaning seemed completely new to me because I wasn’t familiar with any tech. Nonetheless, the way our course was streamlined was commendable; starting with fundamentals, laying a solid foundation, and the hands-on experience made a significant difference. I started to feel more confident and at ease with new ideas. This embarked an appreciation towards data science, especially its problem-solving skills made me realise how useful it can be to solve our day-to-day problems.
The global exposure I received from the start was truly eye opening. Working with a global faculty and students from across the world was a unique and highly valuable experience for me. Global perspectives during group work, in-class dialogues, and university activities made me rethink the way I addressed problems and their possible solutions. I learnt that data science goes beyond just algorithms and statistics; it involves people and societies and leaves a footprint on the world.
I became involved in a number of fascinating projects as I started putting what I had learnt into practice. One of these was a model for predicting election results, in which I applied classification algorithms to demographic and voting data from the past. It was my first significant machine learning project, and it helped me understand complex patterns and glean insights from jumbled information.
In the ‘EY Techathon’, I also competed and advanced to the second round as a quarterfinalist. To assist users in locating the government programs for which they qualified, our team developed an online portal. We included a simple chatbot and made the platform accessible to users in various geographical locations. I learnt how to strike a balance between technical proficiency and social effect from this incredible experience.
Then came the Gen AI Hackathon, hosted by SP Jain Global Sydney. We built a chatbot using GPT models, and this gave me a glimpse into how generative AI can be used to build intuitive tools. The hackathon really pushed my boundaries—it was fast-paced, collaborative, and filled with innovation. It also helped me discover my interest in natural language processing.
Along with my peers, I took part in a group research project on the application of AI to cancer detection. We looked into the use of machine learning in genomics, diagnostics, and predictive screening. The topic struck a chord with me because it illustrated how AI may save lives in addition to improving corporate processes.
Following these experiences, I was able to land a global internship at Boston's Hult International Business School, where I'm now helping develop a co-author tool driven by artificial intelligence. My fundamental knowledge of Python, data analysis, and user-centric design, which I acquired at SP Jain Global, has enabled me to make a significant contribution to the project. Additionally, we have been utilising AWS to facilitate model deployment and backend services, which directly relates to my research during coursework and hackathons. Applying what I've learnt in class to a global, real-world situation while working with professionals from various backgrounds, has been immensely rewarding.
Interested in how other BDS students are making their mark? Read their stories here.
In retrospect, I truly appreciate how SP Jain Global provided me with the platform, confidence, and exposure needed to pursue avenues beyond my imagination. The shift from Commerce to data science has not only transformed the trajectory of my studies, but also my perception of my own opportunities
Jaskaran Ohsan is our 2024 Bachelor of Data Science student.
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A Humble Journey into Data Science
My Journey to My First Internship at Philips (Signify): Challenges, Growth, and Lessons