Andreas Georgopoulos

Studying MSc Business Analytics 2017

Why did you choose to study MSc Business Analytics and why specifically at Imperial College Business School?

My early exposure to the corporate world made me realise that businesses are becoming more complex and interconnected with a trillion bytes of information captured every day. I believe the transformation of data into valuable information that can improve a business’ performance through a data-driven decision making. This, in addition to my academic background, passion about businesses, technology and data, and my desire to gain skills that would give me the ability to apply analytics in practice, were the most crucial reasons that urged me apply for an MSc in Business Analytics.

I decided to pursue my MSc at Imperial College Business School, because it is a world leader in the study and analysis of data and thus I wanted to learn the latest thinking and obtain a clear understanding of data science and analytics from its world-class research faculty and industry experts and be part of the most creative and intelligent minds from a diverse range of backgrounds.

What was the most important learning point you took with you from the Business School?

Through this Masters degree I developed an in-depth understanding of how data improves business decision making, creates value and becomes a powerful strategic asset into an organisation. In addition, I gained insights required to frame business analytics problems and overcome upcoming challenges through a focused data-driven decision making. This programme at the Business School combined modules that gave me the opportunity to develop the needed skills and acquire the required hands-on-experience in a wide range of analytical areas, industries, tools and methodologies to achieve my career goals in data analytics.

How do you view your experience of studying at Imperial since you left?

It was one the best decisions that I have ever made in my life and a stepping stone in my personal and professional development. It was an intense year that proved to be the most productive one to my academic exposure so far.

How has the programme changed you?

This programme made me realise that a career in data science is the right path for me. This MSc was a stepping-stone in my professional career and I am more than grateful to my professors, cohort and everyone at the Business School that contributed to this remarkable journey.

Can you recall a favourite memory from your time on the programme?

My favourite memory from my time on the programme was when I was recognised on the Dean’s List for academic excellence – all the hard work, determination and effort paid off.

Career & professional development

How has your programme contributed to your career success? 

The hands-on experience that I gained during my studies at the Business School proved to be my strongest asset in taking my current role as a data scientist at Accenture. The exposure to a wide range of analytical and data science concepts and methodologies, the tools (programming languages) used to implement the real-world projects as well as the different industries that I was exposed to during my studies, were pivotal in my professional development as a data scientist.

What is your current role like?

I am currently working as a Data Science Analyst as part of Accenture’s global analytics team, having the opportunity to apply a wide range of analytics in practice.  For instance, I have developed recommender systems for a leading hardware retailer in Europe as well as designed an AI Chatbot solution for a leading telecommunication company in the UK.

What do you enjoy most about your current work and what are the main challenges that you face?

The main challenge that I face is that as a data scientist in a consulting environment I need to enhance my technical and business skills constantly in order to compete at the highest level at an environment that is evolving on a daily basis.

The alumni network

In what way is remaining connected to your alumni network important to you?

Remaining connected to my alumni network is important both from a personal and a professional perspective. First and foremost, keeping in touch with my fellow classmates and knowing each one’s achievements and progress in the real world is a source of inspiration and pride. In addition, someone may find new opportunities at a global scale, since the alumni network consists of people from different academic, cultural and professional backgrounds with a selfless intention and attitude.

Advice for future students

What advice would you give to a prospective student considering studying the same Business School programme as you?

If you are passionate about data analytics and fascinated by modelling and coding to frame business analytic problems, then this is the right MSc for you. Be ready for an intense year that will prepare you for the data analytics industry, which is growing at a very fast pace and needs people who have a very strong technical background with a clear business sense. Imperial College Business School will provide you with the latest-thinking, tools and methodologies, that will be vital in your academic and professional development in data analytics. The modules cover different areas where you may find the one that suits you most in case you want to acquire an area of expertise. Comparing the analytical methodologies, tools and applications that you will be exposed to during your MSc to the real world, you will quickly realise that what you are learning is currently used to solve real challenges in the corporate world. Lastly, stay focused and determined from day one and take of advantage of all the opportunities and potential provided at the Business School and you will see your efforts paying off, since you will have the opportunity to pursue and/or enhance a career in data analytics at any industry and career path of your preference.