Hai Ha (Hannah) Ta
Master of Analytics student
With the rapid demand for analysts in today's data-rich world, she wanted to be able to transfer raw data into actionable insights for informed decision-making in business, says Master of Analytics student Hai Ha (Hannah) Ta.
“When I was working in business operations, I discovered my interest for problem-solving through critical thinking and analytics. Despite my passion for mathematics back in high school, my bachelor's degree in international business lacked depth in this area, so embarking on a master's degree in analytics seemed like the natural progression towards realising this career goal.”
After receiving offers from two universities, she soon realised that AUT’s programme content was a better fit for her.
“Because I don’t have a background in maths or computer science, I sought a programme that strikes a balance between foundational knowledge and specialised insights. AUT's reputation for providing practical industry knowledge and experiences resonated with my career aspirations, making it the ideal choice for my educational journey.
“Navigating the technical intricacies of programming languages like R, Python and SAS posed a formidable challenge for me initially. However, with AUT's guidance and encouragement, I adopted a conceptual approach, focusing on understanding the underlying principles rather than memorising the procedural steps. This shift in mindset has empowered me to troubleshoot coding errors independently, fostering confidence in my abilities.”
Exceptional support
The exceptional support from AUT's teaching staff has been the highlight of her academic journey, Hannah says.
“The strong dedication of the staff, evident in the prompt responses to queries and their personalised guidance, has not only enhanced my understanding of the course materials but also nurtured my problem-solving skills. Thanks to their mentorship, I've learnt invaluable lessons on how to break down complex problems into manageable tasks.”
The practical application of her learnings is another thing she has appreciated.
“During my master's programme I also had the opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios. Implementing machine learning techniques to build prediction models to improve productivity and optimise profit in the commercial cleaning industry was a significant milestone for me, and showcases the practical relevance of my studies at AUT.”
Advice for other students
Expecting to complete her studies later this year, Hannah has some great advice for other students.
“My advice is to embrace curiosity and never hesitate to ask questions as every inquiry is an opportunity to deepen your understanding. Cultivate the art of self-learning – the ability to navigate challenges independently is invaluable both academically and professionally. Lastly, dare to pursue your dreams fearlessly because it's in the journey of discovery that you uncover your true potential.”
She wouldn’t hesitate to recommend the Master of Analytics to other students.
“I wholeheartedly recommend this programme to aspiring analysts seeking a comprehensive blend of academic rigor and practical application. The programme's emphasis on real-life projects equips students with invaluable skills and experiences essential for navigating the competitive landscape of analytics careers. Together with AUT's supportive learning environment, I think it's a recipe for success in the dynamic field of data analytics.”
