Case study: Veronica Annor

Veronica studied MSc Data Science at Loughborough University. Here she talks about how digital storytelling inspired her, and how the course has helped her tap into her inner artistic skills and present data in new ways.

What made you interested in studying AI and data science? Was there a particular memory or occasion that inspired you or have you always been interested?

Studying mathematics as a bachelor’s degree exposed me to the field of data and technology. My interest in data and programming was sparked during my study abroad in Paris, where I studied computer science. This led to the decision to complete my master’s in a data related course. After researching the field of data and data-related roles, data science stood out as the natural progression course to embark as it was a natural progression to my bachelor’s in mathematics.

Were there any role models that inspired you to get into data science?

Family friends in the data field shared their experiences of working as data scientists which supported my decision of choosing the data science MSc. They shared their experiences of working in the role and opportunities.

Tell us about your course

The course began with an introduction to R, one of the main programs for data sciences. Having previously been exposed to the analytical tool, I was able to grasp the contents of the course. However, the structure of the course was quite unexpected. We completed modules within 3 weeks. It was initially a bit difficult to adapt to that system but after a while, it became routine. I particularly enjoyed the choice of modules I had never been exposed to, such as digital storytelling.

What attracted you to the course?

Digital storytelling allowed me to tap into my inner artistic skills and enabled me to creatively present data in ways I had never done before. I also enjoyed the machine learning modules which I aim to develop and use in my graduate role.

Did you do a work placement as part of your course?

I completed a summer placement with Imperial College NHS healthcare trust. I worked with the business intelligence team as a health analyst on the identification of cohorts of diabetic patients within the electronic health record systems. I was expected to identify these diabetic patients using a combination of laboratory tests and two other diabetes identification procedures. I cleaned and arranged the raw data in R and proceeded to data wrangling and querying of patients according to specific thresholds and criteria. Overall, I developed my team working skills, communication, initiative, and presentation skills, where I presented my findings to members of the health trust team. 

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

The course has helped me to obtain a data science consultant graduate role where I aim to embark on my journey as a data scientist and progress at the firm. I also aim to impart my knowledge to others, potentially by lecturing in the future.

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

To be bold and apply for the program even if they are not from a technical background.