‘The Workload is Challenging, but It Builds Discipline and Problem-Solving Skills’
.jpg "Sachin Malhotra")
Sachin Malhotra, from Agra, India, is a second-year student of the Master’s in Data Science at HSE University in Moscow. Having pivoted to data science from a career in PR, he plans to put his new knowledge into practice in the realm of e-commerce. In this interview with the HSE News Service, Sachin talks about what makes HSE appealing, the modern skills essential for any economist, and the impact of ‘atomic habits.’
— How did you end up at HSE University?
— I decided to apply to HSE University because of its strong academic reputation, especially in the fields of data science and economics. I was attracted by its modern curriculum, international environment, and emphasis on combining theoretical knowledge with practical skills, which are essential in today’s technology-driven world.
HSE University is innovative, diverse, and challenging
To prepare for admission, I focused mainly on mathematics, statistics, and basic programming. I also worked on improving my analytical and problem-solving skills, which are important for succeeding in a data science programme.
— What are your impressions of your programme so far?
— Managing the academic workload is challenging, but it is also a valuable experience that helps build discipline and strong problem-solving skills.
I particularly enjoy Geospatial Data Science because it allows me to analyse real-world data and understand patterns through spatial visualisation. It is both practical and engaging, as it connects data analysis with real-life applications.
Data analysis and the ability to work with modern technological tools are essential skills for future economists
I find Methods of Artificial Intelligence in Decision Making to be one of the most challenging subjects. It involves complex algorithms and requires a deep understanding of both mathematics and logic, which makes it demanding but also very rewarding.
Ramon Antonio Rodriges Zalipynis is one of the professors who inspires me the most. His teaching style is clear and engaging, and he explains complex concepts in a way that makes them easier to understand and apply.
— How do you spend your time apart from studies?
I enjoy playing cricket and reading—they help me relax and maintain a good balance between academics and personal life. The book Atomic Habits by James Clear has greatly influenced my thinking by emphasising the importance of consistency and small improvements over time.
I am involved in creating YouTube videos for the university. This allows me to contribute creatively while also sharing student experiences with a wider audience
— What are your plans after graduation?
After graduation, I plan to start my own business in the field of e-commerce. My scientific interests lie in data science and artificial intelligence—particularly in how these fields can be applied to improve decision-making and optimise business processes—and I am especially interested in their applications in e-commerce.
I aim to integrate artificial intelligence into e-commerce to enhance user experience and improve operational efficiency
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