Throughout my co-op journey at BC Hydro, I have found myself on an exciting ascent up the learning curve, particularly in mastering SAS and SQL. When I first embarked on this adventure, the world of SAS was entirely new to me - although I knew some basic SQL. Spearheading the development of an extract, transform, and load (ETL) pipeline to automate reports exposed me to the intricate nuances of handling diverse confidential residential datasets, some exceeding even 5 million observations!
The initial stages were undeniably challenging. Learning SAS from scratch demanded a blend of persistence and curiosity (and patience with myself!) However, as I delved deeper, the complexities started to feel less "complex", and I gradually gained confidence in maneuvering through the data. Currently, I am changing a process that is based on "hardcore" and manual analysis to an automatization, witnessing the small steps and reflecting on them helped me understand that there was progress and it motivated me to continue going.
One of the key highlights of my professional growth during this co-op term has been the mastery of SQL programming. From data manipulation to analysis and reporting, SQL has become an invaluable tool in seamlessly addressing both internal and external data requests. The incorporation of macros in SQL programming has added a layer of sophistication to my skill set, enabling me to tackle complex data tasks with efficiency and precision.
The most gratifying aspect is the substantial progress made in the development of apartment reports. This project, which initially seemed like a formidable challenge, has become a testament to the power of independent learning - I used online courses, which differ significantly from the typical UBC lectures. The automation of reports in SAS and SAS VA not only saves time but also ensures accuracy and consistency in handling massive datasets.
As I reflect on this journey, I recognize the difficulties faced in the initial stages, but the sense of accomplishment and the proficiency gained in SAS and SQL have made every challenge worthwhile. This co-op experience has not only expanded my technical skills but has also instilled in me a passion for lifelong learning, setting a solid foundation for my future endeavors in the field of data analysis.
This experience has instilled in me a deep appreciation for embracing challenges, sparking a passion for lifelong learning that will undoubtedly shape my future endeavors in the world of data analysis. My journey navigating the steep learning curve in SAS and SQL has been transformative.