Solomon Desta
What brought you to the MS-DS program?
I hold a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering and have spent over 15 years working in Communication and Electronics Engineering within the federal government. As digital transformation continues to reshape the technological landscape, I felt it was the right time to return to university and deepen my expertise. My professional journey sparked a strong interest in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence. The evolution of digital infrastructure and its growing relevance to my field motivated me to pursue a master’s degree—not only to expand my technical capabilities but also to contribute more meaningfully to my organization’s mission and my own long-term development.
How your experience has been so far?
The program has exceeded my expectations. I began with some hesitation, unsure whether I would continue. But as I progressed through the coursework, I found myself increasingly engaged—revisiting foundational concepts, learning new technologies, and gaining confidence with each module. Now that I’ve completed nearly two-thirds of the program, I’m genuinely grateful to be part of it. The faculty, course advisors, and facilitators have been incredibly supportive, and their guidance has played a key role in my success. The learning environment has helped me grow both technically and personally.
What you hope to do with your degree?
My decision to pursue this degree wasn’t driven by immediate career advancement or job seeking. I currently hold a full-time position, which I plan to maintain through the end of my contract in 2026. However, I’m preparing for the possibility of transitioning into a new field once that contract concludes. This program equips me with the skills and flexibility to explore new professional paths, and I see it as a strategic investment in my future—whether that means continuing in public service or moving into a data-driven role in another sector.