Ascend 2024: Ushering New Opportunities

On August 1, 2024, Christ College, Pune, hosted "Ascend 2024: Ushering New Opportunities," the inaugural ceremony for the final year MSc Data Science program. The event, held in the School of Sciences, was designed to welcome the second-year students and mark the beginning of their final academic year. This report provides a detailed account of the ceremony, highlighting the sessions, speakers, and the overall atmosphere of the event.

The event began with Prof. Margaret Salve, an Assistant Professor in the Department of Data Science, introducing the ceremony and welcoming the attendees. Her brief yet heartfelt address set a warm and inviting tone for the proceedings.

Following the introduction, a series of prayers and readings were conducted. Fr. James, the Manager of Christ College, Pune, led the introductory prayer, creating a reflective and serene atmosphere. The intercessory prayers were led by Prof. Milan Chakraborty, Ms.

Lalrinmawii (a student from MSc DS A), and Mr. Nikhil P R (a student from MSc DS B). The concluding prayer was offered by Dr. Jibrael Jos, the Associate Dean, who emphasized unity and the pursuit of knowledge. 

Dr. Fr. Arun Antony, the Director of Christ College, Pune, delivered the welcome address, highlighting the significance of the final year in the students' academic journey and the opportunities that lie ahead. His words were motivating, encouraging students to make the most of their remaining time at the college.

Mr. Manoj Singh, Principal Analytical Training Consultant at SAS R&D (India) Pvt. Ltd.,delivered the inaugural address for the new academic year. His insights into the industry and the evolving landscape of data science provided students with a broader perspective on their field of study.Rev. Fr. Justin P. Varghese, the Academic Coordinator, conducted the felicitation ceremony, recognizing the contributions of faculty and staff members who have supported the students throughout their journey. This segment was a moment of appreciation and gratitude, reinforcing the collaborative spirit within the department.

Dr. Lija Jacob, the Associate Professor and Head of the Department of Data Science, addressed the students, focusing on the importance of their final year projects and the skills they need to develop to succeed in their future careers. Her address was practical and forward-looking, emphasizing the departments' commitment to student success.

Prof. Amala Johnson, an Assistant Professor, delivered the vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to all the speakers, organizers, and attendees for their participation and contributions to the event. The session concluded with the Christ Anthem, symbolizing the unity and shared vision of the college community.

Following the formal ceremony, an expert session was conducted by Mr. Manoj Singh.This session was a highlight of the event, as Mr. Singh delved into advanced topics in data science. He began with an overview of the current trends in data analytics and the growing importance of data-driven decision-making in various industries. Mr. Singh emphasized the role of big data and machine learning in transforming business processes and driving innovation. He then moved on to discuss the practical applications of data science in different sectors such as finance, healthcare, and marketing. Mr. Singh illustrated his points with real-world case studies, showcasing how companies leverage data analytics to gain a competitive edge. These examples provided students with a clear understanding of how theoretical concepts are applied in practice.

The session was highly interactive, with Mr. Singh encouraging students to ask questions and share their thoughts. This interactive format allowed students to engage deeply with the content and gain insights directly from an industry expert. Mr. Singh's willingness to address individual queries and provide personalized advice made the session particularly valuable for the attendees.

To conclude his session, Mr. Singh provided guidance on career opportunities in data science. He discussed various roles such as data analyst, data engineer, and data scientist, outlining the responsibilities and skill sets required for each position. He also offered practical tips on how to build a strong portfolio, prepare for job interviews, and stay updated with the latest developments in the field. The expert session by Mr. Manoj Singh was not only informative but also inspiring, leaving students with a renewed sense of purpose and excitement for their future careers in data science.

Following this, Dr. Jibrael Jos led an orientation program, providing students with an overview of the academic year ahead, including key dates, events, and expectations. This session aimed to equip students with the information they need to navigate their final year successfully.

Prof. Alwin Joseph, an Assistant Professor, conducted the project orientation, guiding students on their final year projects. He outlined the objectives, timelines, and evaluation criteria, emphasizing the importance of innovation, research, and practical application in their projects.

Conclusion

The inaugural ceremony, "Ascend 2024: Ushering New Opportunities," was a resounding success, setting a positive and inspiring tone for the final year MSc Data Science students. The event not only celebrated the achievements of the past year but also looked forward to the future, encouraging students to embrace new challenges and opportunities in their academic and professional journeys.

OUTCOMES OF THE EVENT

1. Enhanced Industry Insight and Career Guidance: Mr. Manoj Singh's session provided valuable industry trends, practical applications, and essential skills, aligning students' academic efforts with industry expectations.

2. Increased Motivation and Preparedness: Inspiring speeches and detailed orientation sessions boosted students' motivation and readiness, equipping them to tackle their final year projects and coursework confidently.

3. Strengthened Community and Support Network: The event fostered a sense of community among students, faculty, and industry professionals, enhancing collaboration and providing a robust support network for students throughout their final year.