Charting a Path to Success
Alex Katona '18 never expected to earn a nomination for the Forbes 2019 "Top 30 under 30" list, but that's just one of many accolades he has received since graduating from Pacific's Data Science program last spring.
"I invented a new graphics chart called a Poly Area Chart, which was selected by Kantara as one of the top 101 visualizations worldwide. I have been internationally recognized and received nominations for multiple awards," said Katona. "All of this happened within six months of graduating using a fraction of what I learned in the program. The skills I gained in this program enabled me compete at that level."
Pacific's Data Science program prides itself on its interdisciplinary approach to data science-integrating storytelling, math, computer science, creative and critical thinking, interpersonal communication skills and real-world application through capstone projects in partnership with industry.
Alex chose Pacific's MS Data Science program because the classes were delivered through a combination of online and Saturday meetings.
"The program is intelligently designed for working professionals. I could continue to work full-time while taking classes full-time. This is possible because the in-person classes are held on Saturdays and the online classes are held after office hours." Alex continued, "For my capstone project, I got to work with Charles Schwab, which helped me apply everything I'd learned in the program-something very few universities offered. I would strongly recommend this program to anyone considering a career in data science or advancing within the field."
