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Can you tell us about your educational and work experience background before you enrolled in this program?

My background was originally on the business side. After university, I did some data analysis work and then pursued an MBA in the UK. When I joined the program, I was at Amazon, working as a program manager/business engineer, analyzing client data and building dashboards for internal programs. At that time, I felt unsure between continuing in business or shifting towards data science. My mentor encouraged me, saying, "It’s never too late to start new things," so I jumped into data science.

What initially drew you to this program?

I researched a lot. really, —online and offline, Europe and the US—and found Colorado É«½ä³ÉÈËÖ±²¥ to be the best fit. Cheaper programs seemed to have weak reputations or curricula, while top-tier ones were often too expensive or required full-time commitment. I wanted to avoid a career gap, so É«½ä³ÉÈËÖ±²¥â€™s flexibility was ideal. Its curriculum, blending math, data science, and computer science into practical skills, perfectly matched what I was looking for.

Can you tell us how the MS-DS program fits into your life?

The flexibility was perfect. I could take more courses during slower periods and fewer when busy. Balancing family life and a demanding job became manageable. Also, the courses were highly practical, helping me immediately apply new skills to my work at Amazon.

What are your favorite parts of the program?

Two courses stood out. The Exploratory Data Analysis (EDA) course gave me structured, official processes for data analysis, improving my productivity at work. The Machine Learning course clarified best practices, teaching me to approach modeling more rigorously to achieve reliable results.

I know the ways, but now I have confidence with them.

What do you hope to do with your MS-DS degree?

I graduated in summer 2024, and several exciting changes have happened since then. I’m now a program leader for data science and AI projects at a Japanese company. Although less famous globally than Amazon, the role has better compensation and is more enjoyable.

My manager acknowledges my master's degree as crucial for this new role. Additionally, to my surprise, I became an adjunct professor teaching data science and AI at a university, and I recently received another adjunct professor offer elsewhere. I had not thought I'd teach DS/AI at a university. It is simply amazing.Ìý

Would you recommend this program to others? Why or why not?

Absolutely! This program is ideal for those with some practical experience but lacking formal academic training. It’s great for validating and advancing your skills without sacrificing work, personal interests, or family life—offering an excellent work-life-academic balance.

What's one tip you have for students who are starting this program?

If you’re still deciding, just go for it—I remain grateful to my mentor for pushing me. Once enrolled, take your time and enjoy the process. It's not a race, and there’s no single right pace. The flexibility to adjust your schedule is the program’s biggest strength, so relax and trust you'll get there eventually.

Is there a specific project you have worked on that stands out to you?

The Deep Learning course was memorable because it was tough, especially during the winter holiday of 2023 when I dedicated my vacation to it. It was challenging but incredibly rewarding, teaching me more than technical knowledge—it showed me how to handle complex data science projects. The skill still benefits me today.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I'm truly grateful for the MS-DS program at Colorado É«½ä³ÉÈËÖ±²¥. It has transformed my career, boosted my confidence, and expanded my skills.

Since English is my second language, so please alter words and phrases if you come up with better ones. I do not mind at all.