With a brand new undergraduate course in Business Analytics available soon at RGU, alumnus Rajaa shares what working in the field is like, as well as how his university course helped him get ready for his career.

What do you enjoy the most about your role?

I absolutely love using data to solve problems and find hidden opportunities! There’s just something so exciting about digging into information, finding patterns, and using what I learn to make smart decisions. I really enjoy the mix of analysing data and coming up with creative solutions – it’s both challenging and rewarding.

Why did you choose to pursue a career in business analytics?

When I first learned about the field of business analytics, I was immediately drawn to it. The idea of taking complex data and turning it into meaningful insights that could help organisations improve their processes and outcomes was incredibly intriguing to me.

I saw it as a way to use my analytical skills and knowledge to make a real difference in the world of business. That’s why I decided to pursue a career in this field – so that I could help organisations better understand their data and make more informed decisions.

I truly believe that business analytics has the power to transform the way we work and succeed, and I’m excited to be a part of that transformation.

How do you feel RGU prepared you for your career?

I absolutely loved my time at RGU! It played a crucial role in preparing me for my career by providing me with the right resources and foundation that perfectly aligned with the demands of the job market.

RGU’s industry-led projects and classes allowed me to gain practical, real-world experience, which was super helpful in bridging the gap between academic learning and the professional landscape. This exposure gave me valuable insights into the challenges and dynamics of the business analytics field and helped me enhance my technical skills.

Why is business analytics important?

In today’s world, data is everywhere, making business analytics more important than ever. The ability to gather and comprehend data, connect diverse pieces of information, and create a consistent and logical story is incredibly valuable.

In a data-driven environment, business analytics leads organisations to make informed decisions, recognise trends, and take advantage of opportunities. It converts raw data into practical insights, allowing businesses to remain competitive and agile in a constantly changing market.

What are some of the roles and responsibilities in business analytics?

Business analytics is all about working together to make data-driven decisions. A team of professionals, including analysts, data scientists, business intelligence experts, and data engineers, all work together to collect, process, and analyse data.

They use clever statistical techniques and data visualisation tools to present their findings in a clear and understandable way. By combining their technical expertise, strategic thinking, and effective communication, these professionals can deliver actionable insights that help organisations make better decisions. It’s an exciting field that requires a lot of hard work, but it’s incredibly rewarding to know that you’re making a difference.

Any advice you would give to someone considering studying an undergraduate degree in Business Analytics?

Developing a mindset of curiosity and adaptability is crucial when it comes to the field of business analytics. It is imperative to ask questions fearlessly, as it can assist in effectively solving complex problems. The field of business analytics is constantly evolving, making it important to possess a willingness to learn and adapt, which is a key factor contributing to long-term success.

In addition to technical skills, communication and presentation abilities need to be honed to convey complex data findings in a clear and understandable way, thus being a critical aspect of business analytics. To gain practical experience, chase courses that provide hands-on, real-world applications, such as industry projects or internships.

These opportunities can significantly improve your understanding of the field, making you more attractive to potential employers. Personally, I found that my experience allowed me to communicate more effectively with potential employers, as it gave me practical knowledge beyond academic results alone.

Rajaa Monnapillai

Follow him on LinkedIn.

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New Business Analytics course!

We have a new BA (Hons) Business Analytics course available for a September 2025 start! This course has been designed as a response from employer demands and will help you develop the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in a world of data management, analysis and presentation. You will also have the opportunity to undertake hands-on projects and carry out work placements. Find out more on our website.

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