Last Friday, the Business Analytics and Information Management (BAIM) Graduate Student Association (GSA) made history by hosting Coffee Hour, in collaboration with the Center for Global Programs and Services (CGPS). And what a start it was! With a fantastic turnout, fun games, prizes, and an impressive spread of snacks and goodies, the event was an instant hit, setting the stage for many more to come. Of course, none of it would have been complete without the top-tier coffee that kept everyone energized, thanks to CGPS!
As the BAIM GSA’s first Coffee Hour, expectations were high—and the event delivered beyond expectations. Graduate students from various programs gathered in full force, eager to connect over shared interests, learn from one another, and, of course, enjoy some great coffee. What made this event stand out was the perfect mix of networking and lighthearted fun.
Participants enjoying some friendly competition during the games.
In addition to great conversations, this Coffee Hour added an extra layer of excitement with games that had everyone smiling and competing. From trivia challenges to quick-thinking games, these activities provided a fun way for everyone to loosen up and engage with each other.
And let’s not forget the prizes! Winners didn’t just take home goodies. The games brought a whole new level of energy to the event, with participants cheering each other on and celebrating every win.
“The games made everything so much more fun, and winning a prize was the cherry on top!” said one
Proud winners showing off their prizes!
Graduate life can sometimes be a bit overwhelming, with coursework, research, and career goals pulling students in every direction. The Friday Coffee Hour offers a much-needed break, providing students with an opportunity to unwind, meet new people, and gain fresh perspectives—whether it’s through games, prizes, or professional connections.
The collaboration with CGPS ensured that the event had a professional edge, too. Lookout for the next Coffee Hour, and we promise it to make it even bigger and better, with more games, prizes, and opportunities to connect.
If you missed this one, make sure to keep an eye out for the next! It’s the perfect blend of fun, networking, and some seriously good coffee.
Recently, we had the pleasure of hosting Nicole Dhruv, Data Scientist Manager VP, for an inspiring speaker session. Her talk was a treasure trove of insights and practical advice for anyone navigating the complex world of data and Analytics.
She emphasized that, aside from being a ‘tech bro,’ she has a deep passion for farming! She owns a farm, loves animals, and finds joy in this unexpected hobby. Before moving into data science, she was in research science. What fueled the switch? Her innate curiosity and the desire to learn more about data. This led to her Data and Storytelling Journey.
She enrolled in an analytics program to bridge the gap. “I had a hard time finding the balance between work, studying, and life. “I wasn’t the perfect example of work-life balance,” she admitted, “but I’d do better if I were to go back.” Despite the difficulties, the effort was well worth it and paid off immensely.
However, the journey to data science wasn’t easy. The challenge of applying to 30+ jobs with little to no feedback was almost overwhelming. She did mock interviews with friends and practiced her technical skills using coding challenges from sites like Reddit and built her portfolio through side projects.
Out of the numerous applications she submitted, she received two offers over a period of 6-8 months. “You have to be patient. Learn to be patient. You are competing with thousands of applicants. Leverage the transferable skills that you currently have. This will go a long way. Brush up your technical skills as well – Python ,SAS and Alteryx. These are key in the industry.”
So, how did she make the cut? By finding the right fit, narrowing her scope, and maintaining confidence. She advised not to pass up opportunities just because they are not in your desired industry. At that point, she needed just one “yes.”
She excelled in her interview by being authentic and discussing her passion for data and storytelling. This made a lasting impression and led to a referral from the interviewer to JPMorgan Chase! She started as a Data Visualization Associate and worked her way up to her current role as Data Scientist Manager, a position she secured by networking with one of her clients while she was a Sales Science Data Scientist.
Her closing remarks were, “You need just one yes. Continue to search and be relentless. Put yourself out there. As an introvert, I had to force myself to do that. I needed to.”
On the 30th of August BAIM GSA had our first ever event which was the meet and greet for the new student and were joined by some older students and professor Ahmad A Rabaa’i, and professor Anatoliy Anguelov.
The team started by introducing themselves and going through different spots on campus where we went through each of them briefly. After that we presented the Virtual tour of the above named locations to show the new comers where they are located and how they look like.
After the virtual tour we split everyone who attended into groups for an ice breaker event.
It was close race between all teams but team “Dawg” winning the event.
We ended the event with pizza for everyone in the Green and everyone stayed and networked with one another. Overall the first event was successful.
Hey there, new students! Curious to explore the campus? Want to discover the lecture halls, student centers, and the coolest hangout spots at UD?
Join us at the BAIM GSA Campus Tour and Networking Event! It’s the perfect opportunity to meet and network with your classmates and colleagues from various programs and hear about their unique journeys and experiences at UD.
When: 11:00 am on February 5, 2023
Where: Starting from the Trabant Student Center
Get ready for an exciting event filled with fun, exploration, and a bit of walking – a great way to get to know your second home!
Don’t forget to RSVP! Click the link below to confirm your attendance. We can’t wait to see you there! 🌟
BAIM GSA Pizza Party event! This event will be in Purnell room 000 and it will begin at 5pm. Please fill out the rsvp form attached to this post with you name and how many people are coming.
