B.Sc (Data Science and Applications)
Agrima Bhatnagar had her path mapped out – aiming for NEET with her biology background. However, the pandemic brought everything to a halt. While the COVID-19 outbreak upended plans worldwide, including her own, she chose to see opportunity amidst the uncertainty. The difference began with her decision to enroll in the IITM BS Degree in Data Science and Applications. The concept of an online and flexible degree, offered by the prestigious IITM, caught her eye. “I knew it wouldn’t be easy,” she admits. “Coming from a PCB background, Math was a mountain to climb. But I had to do it anyway.”
After diving headfirst into the degree, Agrima realised that it did not just ask for academic rigour, but discipline and time management too.
“Self-discipline has been the biggest asset I gained in my life post enrollment,” she reflects. “Everything in this degree runs on a schedule – the lectures, the assignments, the exams. So, it is up to you to chart your own path – to manage your time, stay on track, and make the most of the freedom it offers.”
But her BS journey wasn’t limited to coding and mathematics. A fashionista and a movie-buff, her creative spark found its stage too. At Paradox’24, she organised and hosted a fashion show as a part of ELAN, the IITM BS Fashion Society. “It was mind-blowing!” she beams.
“It taught me leadership, communication, and how to take feedback in stride.”
This wasn’t her only time with the mic. She also hosted the Experience Sharing Sessions, held by the Placement Cell, moderating insightful discussions between students and speakers – a role that helped her build confidence and sharpen her public speaking skills.
What makes this degree stand out? According to Agrima, flexibility tops the list. “You have the liberty to design your own study plan. You’re not forced to follow a regime, yet the academic quality is top-notch,” she explains. She also raves about the hands-on project work – from MAD 1 and 2’s application development experience to the real-world data crunching of MLP and BDM.
Currently seeking to land a job, Agrima plans to take one or two NPTEL courses this term to further expand her skill set. Her advice to fellow learners is straightforward: “Watch the lectures carefully at least three or four times. Make your own notes—they’re treasure troves during revisions.” She emphasizes that a strong foundation is key before diving into more complex topics.
Agrima’s journey highlights the value of adaptability and the courage to redefine one’s direction. As she continues to navigate the world of data science, one truth becomes increasingly evident: she isn’t just surviving this career change; she’s flourishing because of it.
– Written by Satyaki Goswami
