Written by: Tanushree Agarwal
Transitioning into a new field can feel like stepping into the unknown, especially when everyone else seems to have a head start. But don’t let that deter you. The MS in Business Analytics program at UB is made to accommodate students from diverse backgrounds, including those with no prior experience in analytics. As someone who embarked on this journey, I understand the apprehensions and uncertainties that come with this new path. However, adopting the following approaches can amp up your experience in the MSBA program and position you for success.
Embrace the Learning Curve
One of the most common concerns is the perceived difficulty of the coursework. Entering a new field can be intimidating, but rest assured, the program is designed to ease you into the world of business analytics. Whether you’re a beginner or have some familiarity with analytics, the curriculum begins with the basics and gradually builds upon them, ensuring a smooth learning curve for everyone.
Allocate Time for Personal Learning
While the MSBA program seems to be an intensive 11-month, 30-credit program, it is surprisingly well-paced. Don’t let the workload intimidate you, the schedule allows ample time for independent learning and exploration. Here’s a sneak peek at a typical semester schedule:
Monday (1 session) – 12:30 PM to 1:50 PM
Tuesday (2 sessions) – 2:00 PM to 3:20 PM, and 3:30 PM to 4:50 PM
Wednesday (1 session) – 12:30 PM to 1:50 PM
Thursday (3 sessions) – 2:00 PM to 3:20 PM, 3:30 PM to 4:50 PM, and 5:40 PM to 8:20 PM
This schedule ensures a healthy balance between core courses and personal development activities. With a well-planned schedule, you’ll be able to take advantage of this time to sharpen your skills and pursue areas of interest outside the classroom.
Gain Hands-On Experience
Theory only gets you so far – it’s the practical application that truly builds your understanding. Consider exploring hands-on projects in your free time that involve SQL, R, Tableau, or Power BI to develop practical skills and build a robust profile. These projects serve as tangible evidence of your capabilities and can set you apart in a competitive job market.
Reduce Coding Apprehension
You need not fret if coding isn’t your forte. The program offers a variety of courses with varying requirements including options with little to no coding involved. There are paths within the program that require minimal coding. The curriculum allows you to tailor your program based on your interests and future goals. However, familiarizing yourself with SQL is essential as it is a cornerstone skill for most business analyst roles.
Choose Courses Strategically
The program offers a diverse range of electives. Take advantage of the flexibility of course selection to tailor your learning journey according to your interests and career goals. I took advantage of the diverse course offerings by selecting a mix of core analytical courses, such as Predictive and Prescriptive Analytics, and domain-specific courses like Supply Chain Analytics and Business Forecasting. This approach allowed me to delve deeper into my areas of interest while also acquiring the essential business analyst skillset.
Stay Ahead of Assignments
While assignments serve as opportunities to reinforce your learning, procrastination can hinder your progress. Start early, not necessarily because they are time-consuming, but to allow ample opportunity for clarification from professors. This ensures clarity and avoids last-minute scrambling. By staying diligent and understanding the deliverables in a timely manner, you’ll breeze through the assignments and manage the workload effectively.
Take Advantage of Faculty Support
Don’t hesitate to reach out to faculty members for guidance and clarification. They’re incredibly supportive and approachable, offering invaluable insights and assistance whenever needed. Utilize their office hours or schedule one-on-one meetings to address any lingering doubts. The MSBA program at UB is an enriching experience, and your background doesn’t have to be a barrier. The program equips you with the tools and knowledge to excel as a business analyst, regardless of your previous background. Embrace the flexibility, leverage the resources and don’t be afraid to ask for help. With a proactive approach and a willingness to learn, you’ll be well on your way to thriving in this exciting field.
Bio: Born and raised in India, Tanushree’s parents and brother are a steadfast support system. Graduating from the National Institute of Fashion Technology, Tanushree’s passion for fashion took root. Turning her passion into profession, she worked as a merchandiser in apparel manufacturing and later managed inventory at Myntra, a major fashion e-commerce platform in India. Her experience piqued her interest in the world of analytics, leading her to pursue a Master of Science in Business Analytics at UB, where she aims to blend her business acumen with technical skills.
Beyond academics, Tanushree is a cat lover and finds delight their presence. Interestingly, she even had a pet white mouse once. She is all about art and analytics and finds joy in sketching and painting in her free time.