The growing field of data engineering has grabbed the attention of Palvi Bothra
Although her high school journey was humanities-focused, Palvi Bothra was excited to embark on a Data Science degree at UTS, which pushed her outside her comfort zone.
“Simply put, the challenging aspect has been the best.”
In her final year of school, Palvi felt uncertain about her study path while her friends seemed to have theirs figured out. “I didn’t really know what I wanted to study for a long time. I’ve always felt that I’ve been an all-rounder in school and took that open-minded approach into making a decision on a degree.” She used a process of elimination to discover her passion for Data Science Engineering. “I had to force myself to explore the courses available as university applications were about to close. I read course guides to identify which course would suit the subjects I was passionate about, namely maths and physics. I stumbled upon Engineering as my core degree.”
When selecting her major, Palvi discovered Data Science Engineering. Despite her initial lack of knowledge about the field, she embraced the challenge and did her research. “Further research on this major made me appreciate the growing nature of data engineering.”
I hadn’t had much exposure to anything related to my major in the past, but the field was growing, and it was very future-focused, which grabbed my attention.
Palvi Bothra
Adapting to new fields and recognising the significance of data
Despite lacking prior technical knowledge, Palvi embraced the opportunity to study technology in an unfamiliar domain. “We were not offered ‘techy’ subjects at school; we were very humanities-based. So, everything I studied from the first semester at uni was new to me. But I love a challenge and I get the best feeling out of it in the end.”
Palvi simplifies Data Science Engineering for those unfamiliar with it: “Everything around us in the world is built or affected by data. It’s everywhere, and it has the potential to make a difference in the world.”
Data Science Engineering involves creating and managing systems to service the data in our world. It’s all about leveraging the power and potential data has to make a difference.
Internship, mentorship, and networking
Palvi is currently interning at Woolworths Group. These opportunities have enhanced her knowledge and refined her career aspirations.“Internships are fantastic ways to build your skills in both technical and non-technical aspects. I found that my internships allowed me to work in areas of Data Science Engineering that I wouldn’t have otherwise pursued. It’s a benefit that not many people talk about, but it means I don’t have any uncharted career territories within the industry.”
Participating in mentorship programs, like the Lucy Mentoring Program, has also been instrumental. These interactions have highlighted the importance of promoting gender diversity in traditionally male-dominated fields like engineering.
The Lucy Mentoring Program has allowed me to connect with so many like-minded women from different Engineering backgrounds. It’s provided me with perspective.
Palvi is also a Women in Engineering and IT Co-Operative Scholarship recipient. She describes this achievement as life-changing, providing her with more opportunities to network and grow her confidence. “Data Science Engineering is such an amazing study path. Having the scholarship awarded on top of that has presented me with even more opportunities to network, but mostly the growth in my confidence since the start of my journey has been astronomical.”
Palvi’s advice to future Engineering students
Palvi was surprised to find that prior knowledge in Data Science Engineering wasn’t necessary for success. “There’s a beauty to learning as you go. How hard can it be if you don’t ever try it out? Don’t feel you need to over-prepare for the unknown.”
The learning curve is real, but it’s rewarding when you get to the top.
She also attributes her positive study experience to her willingness to embrace opportunities. “You will gain more if you learn to embrace opportunities that come your way. I would tell my younger self the same advice because that is how you grow outside your comfort zone. Everything will work out if you put in the effort and stay in the present.”
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