Using artificial intelligence to benefit humankind

Discover how studying MSc in Data Science and Business Analytics is helping Rafi Achmad Rasyidi improve lives with AI technologies
Rafi Achmad Rasyidi, with family, at their graduation.

My interest in computer science began because I wanted to follow in the engineering pursuits of industrialist and philanthropist, Tony Stark – better known as the fictional Marvel superhero, Ironman.

As a genius inventor, I share Stark’s fascination for developing artificially intelligent inventions to make processes more efficient for humankind.
Despite a range of benefits, AI technology can lead to problems if we do not carefully observe what the negative impacts on society and the environment currently are, and what we can predict they could be.
This is the reason I chose to study BSc (Hons) Computer Science and MSc in Data Science and Business Analytics, with the University of Plymouth – to learn and develop computer science solutions for today and tomorrow.
Since graduating, I have started my own business in the analytics industry so I can use tools to help others find employment. The knowledge I gained studying at Plymouth has given me the foundation I required in software development, analytics and business.
This was recognised by me winning third prize in a Business Start-Up Challenge when I was a consultant with Imagen Insights – a company that gains qualitative and quantitative insight from the global Gen Z community.

I came to the UK from Indonesia to study in Plymouth from 2013 to 2019

Starting at the University of Plymouth International College, where I completed a foundation year and studied pre-sessional English, I went on to complete my undergraduate degree in computer science, followed by a masters in data science and business analytics.
When I studied BSc (Hons) Computer Science I participated in a PhD student project to analyse human behaviour towards two different application interfaces with the same functionality.
I progressed my growing interest in user behaviour during my dissertation and masters research project, where my focus was on pattern analysis to try to predict what might happen in the future.
To be able to do this effectively, practising developing ‘smart’ AI is the key attribute for future technologies – technology that becomes a middle ground that can benefit both current and older generations.
In my favourite modules during my masters I learnt about adapting and using data science techniques for social media and database development.
During my final year, when I was a consultant for Imagen Insights, I worked with a variety of clients from start-ups to established companies such as the Nation Football League (NFL) and Stella McCartney. I used my knowledge in social media analysis to gain information on trends and to collect data in order to supplement my insight for my clients.

In the future, I hope to grow my own business and to continue to help others through data science analysis

Academically, I am hoping to continue my studies at PhD level at Plymouth and build upon my knowledge and experience so far.
If you decide to study data science and business analytics, be prepared to deal with lots of data and research, because as a Data Scientist one of your main challenges is to translate your findings to clients in as simple and solid a way as possible for them to understand.
When you choose to come to the University of Plymouth, you are choosing one of the best universities to help support you to develop your interests.
This one-year conversion MSc is designed for graduates from a wide range of disciplines and experience.
It gives you skills in data analytics, computing and business. Using sophisticated analytics techniques, including social network visualisation and sentiment analysis, and professional software, including R tidyverse, Python and SQL/NoSQL, you gain the skills and knowledge to transform data into commercial value and boost your employability

Study MSc in Data Science and Business Analytics

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