MDS Student Q&A: Saritha Reddy

We spoke to Saritha Reddy, an international student in the Master of Data Science program, to learn more about her experience at the University of Guelph. She began her program in Fall 2024 coming from a background in computer science and will be completing her master’s degree in Summer 2025. She shares her passion and curiosity for how data is integrated in many facets of everyday life, as well as giving advice for others considering a path in the data science field.

What motivated you to pursue a Master’s in Data Science, and how has the program at the University of Guelph contributed to your academic and professional growth?

My motivation to pursue a Master’s in Data Science stems from my Bachelor of Engineering degree in computer science. I recognized the power of data-driven decision-making and wanted to explore how advanced analytical methods could solve real-world problems. The program at the University of Guelph has significantly contributed to my growth, providing a comprehensive understanding of concepts. Hands-on projects and collaboration have allowed me to apply these concepts across diverse domains, while exposure to industry-relevant tools has sharpened my skills. Additionally, the program has enhanced my ability to work in teams, present findings, and communicate complex ideas. 

Of the courses you have taken so far, which one has stood out to you the most? What did you enjoy about it?

The courses that have stood out to me the most in the MDS program so far are DATA*6100 Introduction to Data Science and DATA*6200 Data Manipulation and Visualization. In DATA*6100, I particularly enjoyed the hands-on approach to applying various machine learning algorithms to real-world datasets. DATA*6200 emphasized statistical methods and interactive dashboard creation with Shiny and Tableau, enhancing my ability to effectively present data insights to peers, customers, or clients. Together, these courses have strengthened my theoretical knowledge and practical skills, significantly shaping my understanding of data science. Both the professors I had, Drs. Justin Slater and Mihai Nica, were great at making the courses interactive and engaging, and were always available to answer questions. I also enjoyed learning to use R, a software that’s commonly used in the data science field, along with Python.

Can you share an example of a project that you found particularly fulfilling or exciting?

It’s difficult to choose just one project, as I’ve found all the projects I’ve worked on during my studies to be exciting and fulfilling in their own way. What I’ve enjoyed the most is the opportunity to work with data from different domains and see the impact that thoughtful analysis and modeling can have.

One common thing I learned across all the projects was how to clean raw data and make it more structured. You get data from all kinds of different sources, and how you clean and organize that data is key. They say 80% of your time goes into data cleaning and I found it fun. It’s important because cleaning the data is how you get the valuable information you need.

What advice would you give to other women considering a career or education in data science?

For women considering a career in data science, approach the field with confidence, knowing that many women are already thriving and making significant contributions. Build a strong foundation and connect with supportive communities to gain mentorship, experiences and encouragement. Embrace challenges and leadership opportunities to grow and showcase your abilities. With resilience and continuous learning, you can break stereotypes, inspire others, and excel in this dynamic and impactful field.

What has your experience been like transitioning from your undergraduate program to the MDS program? What challenges did you face and how did you overcome them?

I had about three to four years of work experience before coming here, so transitioning back to school was a bit intimidating. But I took the initiative because I wanted to do something for myself, and coming here was a big step in my life. The curriculum in the MDS program is quite different, with a strong focus on applied learning, interdisciplinary approaches, and solving real-world problems. It took time to adjust to this shift, along with the fast-paced nature of the program and the need to balance theoretical concepts with hands-on applications. However, the department was incredibly helpful and supportive throughout the transition, providing guidance, resources, and encouragement whenever I faced challenges. By staying curious, seeking help when needed, and embracing continuous learning, I was able to overcome these initial hurdles and thrive in the program and gain valuable skills.