In today’s constantly evolving world, upskilling is essential. However, with a full-time job and other responsibilities, it can sometimes seem like a difficult task. Read further to learn about Akash Mishra’s journey with Great Learning’s PGP Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning Course in his own words.
I am a B.Tech and MBA pass out, belonging to Odisha. I have a cumulative job experience of 7.5 years. I have worked for the past five years in the BFSI sector, both in Insurance and Bank. Before getting into the Analytics function, I was working in the Product Management role.
It was my job at HDFC Life that developed my interest in Data Analytics. One of the projects there gave me a macro view of how analytics can solve key business problems, which led me to take online courses to develop my skill in Data Analytics. Hence, Great Learning came into the picture. After completing my program in AIML – Online, I took up the role of AVP – Analytics at Synchrony Financial.
Given the fact that I was a working professional who worked for an average of 10 hours a day, it was tough in the beginning to take the plunge to get into a structured course. But as I pushed myself to think hard about the priorities for my career ahead, I eventually started putting more effort to work on the learning aspect of my life by dedicating at least 2-3 days each week. I wanted to transition within my organization and started taking additional responsibilities, which gave me exposure to the application of Analytics. Finally, I took the course, and I was able to balance the PGP- AIML Online Course with the combined effort of the faculty and my learning group.
Before enrolling in the course, I started learning Machine Learning through various online mediums. I had not worked in IT before, and I wanted to transition, which required me to have a basic understanding of the IT industry. When I started online learning, I realized that I was getting distracted easily, and I was unable to focus on my learning. That is when I started looking for a program where I can learn everything end-to-end. I came across multiple options and felt that Great Learning was the better choice. Initially, I was apprehensive about online learning, and I was not unsure as to how the content will be delivered and the program will be managed. However, as it was budget-friendly, I took up the course. It was a complete leap of faith, but the course onboarding was great. The Program Manager assigned to our group was highly engaging and helpful. Finally, I can say that I had a good learning experience even in the online medium.
The mentoring sessions were extremely good, empowering, engaging, and helped me in building a strong base in the course. Great Learning’s team and the mentoring sessions have been very helpful throughout my learning journey. They were always available to help us when we needed to clear doubts. They were very prompt and ensured that we gained sufficient knowledge regarding all the topics. The projects were designed in a manner that encouraged us to deep dive into the AIML topics. The capstone project was another significant leg where my mentor was very actively involved, which led us to understand how to carry out an analytics project. My mentor always cleared my doubts and queries, sometimes even on days when there was no scheduled mentor session.
My genuine advice to people who are just starting with learning analytics is just taking the plunge and start with a strong determination. Analytics is here to stay and at least for the next ten years. Be dedicated and allocate some time to your busy schedule to upgrade yourself. The mantra is that you either get upgraded or get removed from the system. Learn in a structured manner and start from the basics. Apart from whatever is being taught in the course, put in efforts and study well. That is how one can become an AI professional eventually.
