QUT Master of Data Analytics student Sally standing in front of a data wall displaying a map and graphs

By Emelie Dahlskold, 27 February, 2023 | QUT Master of Data Analytics student Sally

If you're curious about turning data into insights and exploring a career in data science, let us introduce you to Sally, a Statistical Forecast Analyst at Woolworths Group. Sally's job involves improving the accuracy of sales forecasts to ensure that the right amount of stock is delivered to the right store at the right time. But her path to this position was not a straight line.

Sally had always been curious about how data science and analytics shape decision-making, so she decided to pursue a Master of Data Science at QUT. She knew it would be a challenging journey given her lack of coding experience and background in mathematics. However, she found the course well-structured, and the teaching team was supportive.

"The course was structured well so that students were gradually introduced to new concepts. Also, the teaching team at QUT is extremely supportive; there were no unanswered questions and students were encouraged to ask lots of questions. The supportive environment made me feel comfortable, and I was able to learn concepts of statistics and how to code," Sally said.

Her hard work paid off, and she was able to apply what she had learned in her job.

"I personally like the emphasis on the applications of the knowledge rather than the assessment of the knowledge. I was able to apply what I've learnt to my job as a Statistical Forecast Analyst," she said.

Sally's career highlights include being a finalist for the Team Member of the Year Award 2022. Her employer, Woolworths Group, provides many career development opportunities, flexible working arrangements, including working from home, and an inclusive organisational culture.

If you're considering a postgraduate degree at QUT, Sally advises focusing on applying knowledge. "If you have a job in the field already, linking the course content to real-world work scenarios can be helpful for your learning and career development," she said.

Sally's journey shows that with hard work, determination, and a supportive learning environment, you too can pursue a career in the ever-evolving field of data science and analytics. So go ahead, take the leap, and follow your curiosity. As Sally puts it, "there are many opportunities in data science, and it is a field with a lot of potential for growth."

Apply for a Master of Data Science

Full suite of data science study options

Author

Emelie Dahlskold

Emelie Dahlskold

Content creator for QUT Faculty of Science

Profile

You may also like

Enjoyed this article? Find out more about our range of scholarships and double degrees, or match your skills to discover the best study options for you.

Scholarships

Double degrees

Match my skills

Keep me up to date

Sign up to receive emails to help you with your study decision. We’ll send you occasional information about studying at QUT, scholarships, key dates and upcoming events.

By submitting this form, you understand that QUT is collecting your personal information.
Please refer to the Privacy Collection Notice for more information.