Data Scientist
Qualification: Master of Data Science
Company: IBM
Year of Graduation: 2024
Education Provider: Edith Cowan University
Country of Origin: India
Tell us a bit about yourself.
I am Dhruv Sehgal, and my journey brought me to Australia, specifically Perth, my first international venture, for my Master's degree following my Bachelor's in Computer Science with a specialization in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning.
My story is a rollercoaster of experiences. Initially, I began my Australian adventure working as an Uber Delivery driver, facing challenges in securing a job aligned with my field. Determined to improve my interpersonal skills, I juggled three jobs in my first semester alongside my studies. Eventually, I transitioned my focus solely to studies, actively participating in networking and tech events relevant to my expertise. These experiences, where I often found myself as the lone student among seasoned professionals, provided invaluable insights into the tech industry dynamics.
Being the youngest student in my Data Science program with minimal professional experience from India, the job hunt was tough. However, persistence paid off as I diligently applied to around 50 positions daily, starting with unpaid internships secured through networking events. Winning a hackathon, earning recognition from organizations like the Department of Fire and Emergency Services and Western Australia Data Science Innovation Hub, further boosted my journey. This victory also led to my first paid internship as a Junior Associate at IBM during my final semester, eventually transitioning into a full-time Data Scientist role— a rare accomplishment with only a handful securing such roles nationwide, with three from Perth.
Beyond work, I explored Perth extensively, forging meaningful connections and embracing the city's vibrant lifestyle. The fantastic weather here turned me into a fitness enthusiast, adding to my love for this place.
What was your main reason(s) to select Perth as your study destination?
Perth stood out as my study destination for several compelling reasons. The city offered abundant opportunities in the tech industry with relatively less competition compared to Sydney and Melbourne. The pleasant weather and welcoming community in Perth significantly contributed to an environment conducive to both academic pursuits and professional growth. Moreover, the cost of living in Perth proved to be more manageable compared to other Australian cities, making it a practical and appealing choice for my educational journey.
Tell us about your experience since graduating from ECU - how has your career progressed to date?
Post-graduation, I embarked on two unpaid internships during my studies, culminating in a paid internship as a Junior Associate at IBM through ECU's Work-Integrated Learning program. Following graduation, I transitioned into a full-time role at IBM as a Data Scientist, engaging with multiple clients and conducting fieldwork. Within two months of joining, I had the privilege of a work trip to Singapore for my Induction at IBM, marking my second international exposure. This experience allowed me to interact with tech leaders globally, offering unparalleled insights. Noteworthy achievements include winning a Hackathon where I developed an application aiding Aboriginal and international communities in receiving emergency notifications in their native languages using AI-generated images. Subsequently, I was tasked by the Department of Fire and Emergency Services to implement this innovation in real-life scenarios.
What are the top 3 skills you need in your role as a Data Scientist?
- Python
- SQL
- Machine Learning
What have you enjoyed the most about living and studying in Perth?
The camaraderie of friends who accompanied me on this journey made it immensely fulfilling through shared travels, conversations, and explorations of Perth's beauty. The most delightful aspects of living and studying in Perth are its enchanting weather, the infectious positivity of its people, and the plethora of weekly events that offer opportunities for learning and exploration in the city.
What would you say to students thinking of coming to Perth to study?
For students considering Perth as a study destination, I would affirm that they are making a wise choice. This city brims with opportunities and invaluable exposure. To leverage these opportunities, it's essential to remain open to learning new skills and exploring diverse avenues. I highly recommend engaging in networking events as Perth thrives on connections—remember, in this city, "Who You Know" often holds as much importance as "What You Know."
If you could tell your graduate self one piece of career advice, what would it be and why?
To my graduate self, I would impart this wisdom: believe in yourself and maintain unwavering consistency. The journey from securing your first job to excelling in your studies will present challenges. By fostering self-belief and adhering to consistent efforts every day, you can overcome obstacles and make every endeavor worthwhile.