Ever since the commencement of high school studies, I was keen to know application of mathematics in

factuality. Its abstract nature intrigued me to question my teachers about relevance and usefulness to
mankind. I wanted to apply my learning and understanding invariably in real world circumstances.

It was until the introduction of Operations Research, while studying at college, which satiated my yearning
to a certain extent. The problem solving and analytical techniques in Operations Research fostered the
logic and decision making, which I believe, is one key component for developing models in real world or
an approach towards mathematical modeling.

The process of creating mathematical representation of a real-world scenario to make predictions or

provide insights captivated my interest. Although real world problems are often open ended and require
iterative methods, but would also promote problem solving skills, creativity and innovation.

Besides Math, my interest in computing initiated right while coding the first program in C++ during
bachelors. The backend scripting while using mobile phone, social media, scanning barcode at grocery or
making online transactions, escalated my enthusiasm. I believed in the vigorous nature of programming
and its effectiveness to engage world dynamically.

Also the symbiotic relation of computing and mathematics led me towards researching pathways blending
the two disciplines, to evolve more powerful outcomes which would inherit the scientific and analytic
approaches. While discussing it with a friend last year, I got introduced to the big data world and the
interdisciplinary field of Data Science, combining aspects of statistics, mathematics, programming and
domain expertise to address real problems. I was looking forward to traverse a similar realm and hence
Data Science receives preference.

My previous studies helped to gain essential strategic and adaptive reasoning in the study of Algebra,
Geometry, Statistics and Calculus. Integration of mathematics with computing widens the scopes and
facilitates challenging yet interesting opportunities. This has instilled passion in me to explore computing
specializations like Algorithms, Data structures and Programming fundamentals.

For the past six months I have been working diligently, enrolled in several courses to learn programming
fundamentals with Python, SQL basics, Foundations of Data Science, k-Means clustering in Python and
also Machine Learning concepts on self-learning platforms like Coursera, Udemy, Simplilearn and
Youtube. Successful execution of programs like Conversion scales, time zones, board game and DNA
processing using Python, exhilarated me and imparted encouragement. Although this helped me
immensely to acquire foundational understanding of the subject. However, I needed more holistic
education to gain mastery by pursuing formal studies and enrolling in university.

I started looking for reputed universities to pursue masters in Data science or related computer science
streams. I figured that the role of data scientist is one of the most in-demand jobs currently in UK and US.
Most likely its demand will originate in other regions of the world. My preference towards UK was obvious
for couple of reasons. One year master’s program itself is an advantage from an international student
perspective. Ever since inception, British universities are known for quality education and accreditation
across the world. Many prominent world personalities from all walks of life, have graduated from English
universities.

Joining on campus program at foreign land is much more than just universities. It is about the place,
environment, people and also the facilities prevailing. As an expatriate living in Saudi Arabia, for about ten
years, I have learnt this significantly. Cities like London, Birmingham, Manchester and Leeds provide
residence to several expatriate communities exhibiting diverse vibrant cultures.

The world has reached a stage when every conceivable organization is becoming data-driven. Like the
vast and ever-expanding universe, the big data fields are in a perpetual expansion mode, both fascinate
me. Data is becoming more valuable in fast-paced life and this is creating a plethora of opportunities for
data-centric roles in reputed organizations. It is no exaggeration to state that Data Science is making
astonishing progress in the multiple domains of technology, economy, commerce and medicine.

After completing masters, I look forward to join established organization to acquire mastery and gain
hands on experience in Data Science. However, time ahead, I would like to start a company where I can
design advance models with the acquired knowledge and expertise from all the domains. For instance
model like – ‘Accident free zones’ by collecting information from traffic flow, speed, regulations to make
informed decisions regarding public safety or a ‘model school’ to be implemented by combining the best
from several curriculums, adaptable for future generations.

For the past ten years I have been in the field of education, gaining expertise in teaching mathematics,
designing curriculums and mentoring learning community. Although teaching-learning is my passion, and
would definitely continue it as a hobby, however I am also a kind of person who believe in constant
change and progress in life. This instinct supports me to accept demanding expeditions. My future
endeavors would be to take slight detour from my current profession to establish myself in another
exciting province, to leverage my knowledge, skills and career.