Super Powers through Data Analytics

Before diving into the vast world of data analytics at Nashville Software School (NSS), Megan Amaral of Part-time Data Analytics Cohort 4 was working in a lean start-up culture which she credits for her desire to consistently add value and keep an eye out for opportunities to improve efficiency. “I decided to pursue data analytics after seeing firsthand how this superpower informs business decisions,” she explains.

This level of interaction with data feels like a valuable intersection between my detail-oriented background in software quality assurance and my impulse to understand the “why” behind strategic decisions.

Why did you choose to attend NSS?

“My employer has hired NSS grads and I have seen their output. It's high quality work from high quality, motivated people. I was also drawn to NSS being a non-profit and therefore driven by a set of values that you don't see in other bootcamps.”

What was the topic of your capstone and how did you choose it?

“The more stories that I heard about periodical cicada broods, the more questions I had about the general experience!”

What advice would you give to current or incoming NSS Data students?

“My instructors helped me through some difficult times by pointing out that learning is uncomfortable - especially when you are used to being good at things you are already familiar with. Feeling subpar when trying to complete tasks using new skills is part of the process. Stick with it and you might be able to surprise yourself when you look back!”