Case study: Georgette Graham

Georgette studied MSc Applied AI and Data Science at Solent University. As a law graduate, she explains how she rediscovered her interest in a career in tech, and how the conversion course has prepared her for one.

What made you interested in studying AI and data science?

I was always interested in computer science in high school, but I was afraid to pursue it. I don’t recall seeing any women in the 6th form class. So I went and pursued a traditional career in law. But I didn’t like it. I like the idea of innovating processes in order to deliver the best value. During my LLM, I completed a course called law, money & technology, and this got me thinking about tech again. In law, I could automate the repetitive stuff so that lawyers focus on what really matters. And outside law, I could do anything!

Were there any role models that inspired you to get into tech and AI/data science?

A standout moment for me was watching Joy Buolamwini's Coded Bias documentary on Netflix. To an extent, it cemented what I already knew – more diversity is needed in tech to reduce and ultimately prevent the development of discriminatory systems. It further inspired me to make a career switch.

Tell us about your course.

My course is primarily data science with AI. I’ve done Python programming geared towards data processing for example creating and manipulating databases. I’ve also looked at the data lifecycle – that is, how to use various tools to extract insight from data and to create machine learning models to make forecasts. My most memorable moment was developing an AI chatbot and actually getting it to work!

What attracted you to the courses?

What primarily attracted me to this course was the fact that I didn’t require a STEM undergrad degree. It can be daunting to make a career switch when there is no institutional support.

What are your plans and dreams for the future and do you think the course will help you to achieve them? How?

I’m hoping to work in the fintech or legaltech industry. Both are equally appealing and are in line with my background. This course will help me to achieve this goal because it is directly relevant to these industries. Data is like oil – any sensible organisation wants to leverage this oil to boost profits, streamline processes, improve customer experience, and create regulations among other things. The skills learned from this course will therefore put me in a position to help any organisation make the most of their data.

What advice would you give someone thinking about studying on the postgraduate conversion course programme?

I did law. Now, I’m this close to changing my LinkedIn headline to “data scientist”. That says it all. But I’ll also add that in a technology and data-driven age, you’re more valuable if you upskill. Think of the number of ways that data could potentially change your current field or job, and if you think of just one way, then that means the tech world needs you.