At the Swiss School of Business and Management Geneva, we take pride in offering flexible and innovative programs that empower professionals to advance their careers. Rosario Bermudez, a student in our Online MBA in Data Science program, exemplifies the drive and passion that define our diverse learning community.
Can you share a bit about your background before enrolling in the Online MBA in Data Science? What motivated you to pursue this program?
Before enrolling in the Online MBA in Data Science, I built a successful career as a pharmacist, amassing over 20 years of experience in various roles within the pharmaceutical and medical devices industries. Currently, I am the Director of Strategy and Business Planning for the Quality and Compliance function at Innovative Medicines, a division of Johnson & Johnson.
My passion for digital innovation led me to focus on enhancing the digital skills of our quality professionals and driving initiatives that transform our processes. While I have pursued extensive self-development and training, fueled by J&J’s commitment to a growth mindset, I realized that I needed a more formal education to reach my full potential. I wanted to acquire the skills necessary to navigate and lead in an increasingly data-driven world.
This program has been a game-changer for me. The ability to leverage data, craft compelling narratives, and persuade stakeholders is essential for making informed decisions that drive our business forward.
Enrolling in the Online MBA in Data Science has empowered me to bridge the gap between my current skills and future aspirations. It has not only fueled my confidence but has also inspired me to lead with vision in an ever-evolving industry. I am excited about the journey ahead and the opportunities that lie ahead as I drive my organization toward a more innovative future.
How did this flexible approach work for your professional and personal commitments?
Finding the right program took time, but the flexibility offered by this MBA in Data Science has been essential for balancing my professional and personal commitments. As a mother of two boys, I juggle my role at Johnson & Johnson, which sometimes requires travel, and managing a side family business. With such a busy lifestyle, it was crucial for me to enroll in a program that allowed me to study at my own pace and from various locations – whether at home, in a hotel, at the airport, or even at venues where my son performs as a musician. This flexibility has enabled me to seamlessly integrate my studies with all the other aspects of my life.
This program has empowered me to pursue my academic goals while keeping up with my family and professional responsibilities, making it an ideal fit for my dynamic lifestyle.
What do you think are the biggest benefits of studying Data Science in an MBA program?
The benefits of studying Data Science within an MBA program are immense and transformative, particularly for those of us who have taken a non-traditional path. Many professionals complete their MBA or graduate studies shortly after finishing their undergraduate degrees. However, I always felt at a disadvantage for not pursuing a graduate degree immediately. After graduating as a pharmacist, I chose to prioritize my family when I became a mother, putting my education on hold until my children were older and more independent. Looking back, I am grateful for that decision.
Today, as I pursue this MBA with a concentration in Data Science, I realize that this unique program offers me a significant advantage that many traditional MBA graduates may not possess. The emphasis on data utilization, strategic business management, and envisioning future opportunities is unparalleled.
In today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, issues such as cybersecurity risks and the need for robust business intelligence are paramount. The importance of big data cannot be overstated; succeeding in modern industries demands more than simply interpreting financial statements in spreadsheets.
This program has equipped me with the knowledge and skills to harness the power of data and translate it into actionable insights for my organization. For anyone contemplating their educational journey, I encourage you to consider the deep advantages of merging data science with business acumen.
How do you see the skills and knowledge from the Online MBA in Data Science influencing your current or future career in the tech or business world?
The skills and knowledge I have gained from the Online MBA in Data Science have profoundly influenced my approach to work and beyond. They have not only enhanced my efficiency in daily tasks but have also transformed the way I communicate and enable strategic insights and address organizational needs.
Moreover, this program has significantly shaped the way I mentor others. Whether I’m guiding colleagues at work or inspiring my own children, nephews, and nieces as they embark on their career paths, I draw on the lessons learned from my studies.
In essence, my journey through this program has not only equipped me with practical skills but has also ignited a vision of how I can contribute to a more innovative and data-driven future. I am excited about the impact I can make in the business world, and I look forward to exploring these opportunities as they unfold.
What has been the most rewarding aspect of your learning journey so far in the program?
My learning journey in the program has been filled with numerous enlightening “aha” moments. Engaging in discussions with subject matter experts at work has deepened my understanding of their insights and perspectives. This newfound knowledge has empowered me to think critically about essential areas such as cybersecurity and business intelligence, enabling me to contribute more effectively as a solid strategic professional. Additionally, I’ve developed innovative ideas that enhance our approach to these critical areas, positioning my team for success in an increasingly data-driven world.
However, the most rewarding aspect has been gaining clarity about my career path. This program has equipped me with the tools to blend my years of experience with the new knowledge I’ve acquired, enabling me to envision how I can apply this combined expertise in future roles and entrepreneurial ventures.
What advice would you give to prospective students considering the Online MBA in Data Science at SSBM Geneva?
I highly recommend the Online MBA in Data Science at SSBM Geneva to anyone considering it. This program is excellently developed, with each course building cohesively on the others to create a comprehensive educational experience. What I particularly appreciate is the flexibility in assignments, allowing you to select case studies and projects that align with your current career, industry, or even a new business you wish to explore.
Additionally, from a cost-benefit perspective, this program offers significant value, especially for busy professionals like myself. If you’re contemplating this opportunity, I urge you to stop hesitating and enroll—you won’t regret it. I’m already considering which areas to focus on as I continue my journey.
Rosario’s journey is a testament to the transformative impact of the Online MBA in Data Science. From enhancing her ability to leverage data in strategic decision-making to mentoring the next generation of professionals, she embodies the power of continuous learning. Her insights underscore the value of blending business acumen with data science—an essential combination for today’s leaders. We are proud to be a part of her educational journey and look forward to seeing the incredible contributions she will make in the ever-evolving world of business and technology.