(F23) Data Scientist at BC Hydro (Data Analysis and Automation, Sept 2023 - Present)
Situation: Joining BC Hydro as a Data Scientist, I undertook the challenge of spearheading the development of an extract, transform, and load (ETL) pipeline to automate apartment reports in SAS and SAS VA.
Task: My primary task involved eliminating the need for "hardcore" and manual analysis by leveraging my expertise in SAS and SQL programming. This included developing proficiency in SQL, incorporating macros, and seamlessly addressing internal and external data requests. The goal was not only to enhance efficiency but also to ensure accuracy and consistency in handling massive datasets.
Action: I immersed myself in mastering SAS from scratch, overcoming the challenges associated with complex residential datasets. Simultaneously, I honed my SQL programming skills to a professional level, allowing me to manipulate, analyze, and report on data seamlessly. The development of the ETL pipeline required a meticulous approach, combining technical expertise with a strategic mindset to automate processes effectively.
Result: The successful implementation of the ETL pipeline has not only streamlined the residential data analysis processes but has also marked a significant accomplishment in my role as a Data Scientist at BC Hydro. The automation of reports in SAS and SAS VA has not only saved time but has also positioned me as a key contributor to the efficiency and accuracy of data-related tasks within the organization.
Relevance: This experience reinforces my expertise in data analysis and automation, showcasing my ability to handle complex datasets, develop efficient pipelines, and contribute to the evolution of data processes. The role responsibilities align with my aspirations for a career focused on leveraging data to drive informed decision-making and process optimization.
Conclusion: This experience has been instrumental in my professional journey, combining technical skills, strategic thinking, and a commitment to innovation. It is a piece of evidence on my proficiency in data analysis, automation, and my ability to contribute meaningfully to the organization's data-driven objectives.
(S23) Experience as a Business Analyst (Project Management, Jan 2023 - Aug 2023)
Situation: As a Business Analyst in the global licensing team, I was assigned the role of task owner for the team's weekly work submission to the repository. This meant I was responsible for overseeing the entire process, from ensuring that team members submitted their work correctly to the repository to addressing any issues that arose during the submission process. Our team relied on a specific tool for this task, but one day, the tool stopped working, causing a disruption in our workflow.
Task: My task was to troubleshoot the issue with the tool and work closely with the developer to identify the problem and find a solution. Additionally, I had to keep all stakeholders informed about the situation, including the team members who were dependent on the tool for their weekly work submission and other key stakeholders who needed to be aware of the potential delays.
Action: When the tool stopped working, I immediately reached out to the developer to understand the cause of the problem. Through effective communication and collaboration, I worked with the developer to diagnose the issue, and we identified that it was due to a software update that caused compatibility problems.
With the root cause identified, I promptly informed the team members about the situation, acknowledging the issue, and assuring them that we were working on a resolution. I also communicated the situation to relevant stakeholders, such as project managers and department heads, providing them with regular updates on the progress and expected timelines for resolving the problem.
As we worked towards fixing the tool, I continuously liaised with the developer, monitoring the progress of the solution implementation and testing. Once the tool was fixed and operational again, I immediately notified the team and other stakeholders about the resolution.
Result: Thanks to the prompt action taken to troubleshoot the tool's malfunction and the effective communication with the team and stakeholders, we successfully managed the delay caused by the tool's downtime. As a result, we were able to quickly catch up on the accumulated work and even streamline the process to increase efficiency for future submissions.
By handling the situation diligently, I demonstrated my project management skills by owning the problem, coordinating with the developer, and maintaining open communication with all stakeholders. This experience further solidified my ability to handle unexpected challenges and work towards successful resolutions in the dynamic environment of a global licensing team.
Relevance: This experience reinforces my skills in effective communication and stakeholder management, problem-solving, adaptability, project ownership, cross-functional collaboration, conflict resolution, and resilience. These qualities align well with roles demanding dynamic problem-solving and collaboration, ensuring I can contribute effectively to project success and continuous improvement.
(S23) Winner ProduHacks x EY (Market Research, April 2023)
Situation: The ProduHacks X EY hackathon, organized by UBC BizTech Network, marked a significant achievement for my team as we secured victory. As a product manager, I guided our journey from ideation to presentation for our groundbreaking garden-sharing service and community platform, which secured the top spot.
Task: Our platform uniquely connects landowners and gardeners, promoting urban farming, sustainable food production, and a community of environmentally conscious individuals. My task was to explain the "why" of our product and the rationale behind its existence. For that, I had to do market research on land and carbon footprint.
Action: Throughout the hackathon, my role demanded compelling visual communication to convey our platform's value based on my market research. I honed my skills in crafting interactive, concise, and engaging slides. This involved distilling complex ideas into visually impactful presentations and showcasing the platform's features and benefits with clarity.
Result: This experience significantly bolstered my ability to convey complex business and economics concepts in a straightforward way. By successfully translating our platform's value into captivating presentations, I showcased a newly developed skill in clear and impactful visual communication. The hackathon win not only highlighted our idea's potential but also underscored my capacity to convey project value to a diverse audience.
Relevance: The enhanced visual communication proficiency I gained from this experience is directly applicable to roles in product management and business development. My newfound ability to create compelling and succinct presentations ensures effective communication with clients, investors, and stakeholders, a valuable asset in these positions.
(S23) Replicating Economic Research (Independent Learning and Analytical Skills, April 2023)
Situation: Enrolled in ECON 442: Issues in Economic Development, I tackled various subjects related to global economic disparities, poverty, inequality, institutional factors, labor markets, and more.
Task: A standout challenge in ECON 442 involved replicating and analyzing a complex economic study titled "Market Integration, Demand, and the Growth of Firms: Evidence From a Natural Experiment in India" by Jensen and Miller.
Action: With limited guidance, I took on the task of replicating complex econometric analyses using STATA. I taught myself the necessary techniques, refined my data manipulation skills, and grasped advanced econometric methodologies. This process involved self-studying, seeking information online, and independently applying my knowledge.
Result: Through this experience, I developed strong self-learning and analytical abilities. By independently grasping and implementing sophisticated econometric techniques, I showcased adaptability, perseverance, and analytical acumen. The replication provided firsthand insights into empirical research and complex economic dynamics, contributing to my practical understanding of the subject.
Relevance: The autonomous learning and analytical proficiencies I honed are invaluable in roles requiring research, data analysis, and critical thinking. These skills underscore my capacity to tackle intricate challenges, learn new tools independently, and contribute meaningfully to data-driven decision-making processes.
(Work-Learn UBC) Experience as a Chapman Learning Commons (Communication, Aug 2021 - Jan 2023)
Situation: As a Chapman Learning Commons staff member, I was responsible for lending equipment to patrons and ensuring they understood the expectations and responsibilities associated with borrowing. One instance involved a patron returning a broken camera.
Task: My task was to effectively communicate to the patron the fines and consequences associated with returning damaged equipment.
Action: I approached the patron and clearly explained the situation, outlining the policies and the potential repercussions for returning a broken camera. I remained calm and composed while addressing their concerns and questions.
Result: The patron understood the consequences and accepted responsibility for the damaged camera. They acknowledged their mistake and agreed to cover the fines. This incident highlighted the importance of clear communication in managing expectations and maintaining accountability.
Relevance: This experience developed my communication skills, particularly in conveying expectations and responsibilities to others. As a potential employee, I recognize the significance of effectively communicating guidelines and consequences in various professional settings.
(UBC Collegia) Experience as a Senior Collegia Advisor (Problem Resolution, Aug 2022 - Jan 2023)
Situation: In my role as a Senior Collegia Advisor, I supervised a team of Advisors and faced challenges when multiple students wanted to host the same event, which was not feasible.
Task: My task was to resolve conflicts and find suitable alternatives for students who wished to organize events simultaneously.
Action: I held team meetings to discuss the event requests, facilitated open communication, and encouraged collaboration among the students. I proposed creative solutions, such as coordinating different time slots or finding alternative venues.
Result: Through effective problem resolution and communication, we successfully addressed conflicting event requests. The students understood the limitations and were able to find mutually agreeable solutions.
Relevance: This experience honed my problem-resolution skills and highlighted the importance of facilitating open dialogue and teamwork. These skills are transferable to various professional roles, where conflict resolution and creative problem-solving are necessary.
(Student Leader) Experience as the Director of the IONA Journal of Economics (Leadership, Aug 2022 - Present)
Situation: As the Director of the IONA Journal of Economics, I had to oversee a team and delegate work to others, learning to trust their abilities without double-checking their tasks.
Task: My task was to effectively delegate and supervise the work of the journal team, ensuring timely and accurate completion of tasks.
Action: I assigned specific responsibilities to team members, provided clear instructions, and established deadlines. I actively supported and guided them throughout the process, providing feedback and offering assistance when needed.
Result: By delegating tasks and trusting my team members, the IONA Journal of Economics operated smoothly and published high-quality content. The team demonstrated their capabilities and took ownership of their assigned responsibilities.
Relevance: This experience developed my leadership skills, emphasizing the importance of effective delegation, trust in team members, and fostering a supportive work environment. These skills are valuable in leadership positions, where the ability to delegate and empower others is crucial for success.
I learnt about the importance to reflect on my past experiences and how each one has added an incredible lesson to my personal and professional life.