It’s far more than numbers: My experiences as a year 1 student in the Bachelor of Data Science program
If I had to describe my first year at SP Jain Global in one word, it would be transformative. Coming into university, I expected to learn new concepts and develop technical skills, but I did not anticipate how much my perspective on learning, problem-solving, and the real-world impact of data would evolve in just one year.
Research experience at IIT Bombay as a Year 1 student
One of the biggest surprises of my first year were the opportunities that emerged beyond the classroom. If someone had told me at the beginning of the year that I would be working on research at the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, I would have found it hard to believe. As a first-year student, I was primarily focused on adapting to university life and building a strong academic foundation. However, SP Jain Global’s emphasis on experiential learning and continuous exploration encouraged me to step outside my comfort zone and pursue opportunities that initially seemed far beyond my reach.
Throughout the year, I developed a deeper appreciation for the role data plays in understanding and solving real-world problems. Whether in finance, digital payments, or cybersecurity, data is far more than numbers stored in databases; it tells stories, reveals patterns, and enables informed decision-making. What excites me most is the ability to uncover insights that are often hidden within large volumes of information and transform them into meaningful actions.
Exploring data science applications
Working with data has shown me how technology influences nearly every aspect of modern life. In areas such as finance and digital payments, data helps organisations identify trends, improve customer experiences, detect anomalies, and make systems more secure and efficient. Understanding these applications has reinforced my belief that data science is not simply about building models; it is about solving real problems that affect businesses and society.
Work with Agentic AI in cybersecurity
My research experiences have further strengthened this perspective. During my internship at IIT Bombay’s TrustLab, I have been working on the implementation of Agentic AI in cybersecurity. The experience has introduced me to the challenges of applying advanced technologies to real-world security problems. From exploring autonomous AI systems to understanding how intelligent agents can assist in threat detection and response, I have seen firsthand how data-driven approaches can significantly improve decision-making processes.
From intuition-based to evidence-based decision-making
One particularly impactful realisation came when I began working with large-scale datasets and security analytics tools. Seeing how patterns that are invisible to the human eye can be identified through data analysis highlighted the immense value of data-driven decision-making. It demonstrated how organisations can proactively address problems rather than simply reacting after issues arise. This shift from intuition-based decisions to evidence-based decisions is one of the most powerful aspects of data science.
Reflections on Year 1 experiences
Looking back, the experience that has shaped me the most is not a single class or project, but the combination of academic learning, research opportunities, and practical exposure to industry challenges. The BDS classroom provided the theoretical foundation, while internships and research allowed me to see how those concepts translate into real-world impact. These experiences have taught me the importance of curiosity, adaptability, and continuous learning qualities that are essential in a field that evolves as rapidly as technology.
As I move into my second year, I am excited to continue exploring the intersections of data science, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity. My first year at SP Jain Global has shown me that opportunities often emerge when you are willing to take initiative and embrace challenges. More importantly, it has taught me that data has the power not only to drive business decisions but also to create meaningful solutions that can positively impact society.
Chirag Sethi is our Bachelor of Data Science student currently stepping into his second term in Sydney, Australia.
Recommended reads:
From Campus to Corporate: My Internship Journey at Marsh
Breaking the Myth: You Need Advanced Mathematics to Start a Career in Data ScienceMore than an internship: Joining a meaningful mission in Australia
