Naomi Nyarinda Okemwa is pursuing her master of science in business analytics and information management, and is expected to graduate in 2025. She recently took a course in the graduate certificate in generative AI for business. She shared why she chose to continue her studies at Lerner, and specifically about her work in Generative AI.
Lerner: Why did you go back to pursue your graduate degree? Why did you choose the Lerner College for your studies?
Okemwa: While working as a data analyst, I realized that I had some skill gaps and that is when I decided to join graduate school to advance these skills. On the other hand, the fact that Lerner College provides an opportunity to gain deeper knowledge and specialized skills in a field one is interested in, while making an individual more competitive in the job market, made me choose it.
Lerner: What did you learn through this opportunity that you wouldn’t have learned anywhere else?
Okemwa: Through pursuing a master of science in business analytics and information management at the Lerner College, I have had exposure to the latest analytical techniques and tools used in the business industry, including advanced statistical methods, machine learning algorithms, and data visualization tools.
Lerner: Please share an example of a course or concept that you were able to apply directly to your life and/or career.
Okemwa: Generative AI – I was able to learn how to prompt and use AI in doing analysis which is very important in my career.
Lerner: Describe an important connection you have made through your graduate program (personal, professional, peers, mentors, professors, etc.)
Okemwa: One of the most important connections I’ve made through my graduate program at Lerner College is with my mentor, who works at Bank of America and has been really supportive throughout my career and ensuring that I have exposure in the corporate world. Another important connection is with my professor, Harry Wang, who taught me Generative AI.
Lerner: If you were to describe your classmates in one word, what would that be and why?
Okemwa: Teamwork. My classmates consistently demonstrate a strong ability to work together on group projects, sharing knowledge and supporting each other to achieve common goals.
Lerner: How do you balance your career with your studies?
Okemwa: Balancing work and studies is one of the most challenging tasks. For me, I identify and prioritize tasks based on deadlines and importance, then focus on high-impact activities that contribute significantly to both work and study goals. I also create a weekly schedule that allocates specific time blocks for work, study, and personal activities. This ensures that I don’t neglect my studies and work.
Lerner: Fill in this sentence: “My graduate program helped me become…”
Okemwa: A more skilled and confident professional analyst equipped with advanced analytical skills, a strategic mindset, and the ability to make data-driven decisions.
Lerner: What was the most impactful hands-on project or case competition that you were able to participate in?
Okemwa: I worked on a Generative AI project that involved me to create a financial analysis GPT that can help in predicting market trends among consumers and help businesses make decisions based on that. This was a very hands-on project that sharpened both my analytical and programming skills.
Lerner: What are your plans or next steps for the future?
Okemwa: Successfully complete my master of science in business analytics and information management and secure a full-time position as a data analyst, business analyst, or a related role where I can utilize my expertise in analytics.