I’m excited to share my incredible experience as part of the Data Duo Mentoring programme at Queen's Business School, where I had the opportunity to blend academic knowledge with real-world business insights. The programme was designed to create mutually beneficial partnerships between MSc Business Analytics students like myself and experienced professionals, offering us both the chance to learn and grow.

The Programme and Its Benefits

The Data Duo Mentoring programme lasted for 12 weeks, during which I was paired with a business professional from Genesis, a marketing company based in Belfast. From the very beginning, it was clear that this experience would be invaluable. I had the chance to apply the skills I learned in my MSc programme, such as data analysis and business intelligence, while also gaining practical insights into how a real company operates.

The structure of the programme encouraged us to meet regularly—five times throughout the cycle, with each session lasting at least 30 minutes. These meetings were crucial in setting goals, tracking progress, and discussing challenges. Over time, it felt less like a formal arrangement and more like a meaningful collaboration between mentor and mentee, where both parties gained something from the relationship.

Working with Genesis

One of the most rewarding aspects of the programme was working with Genesis. Our multiple office visits helped me understand how data could be applied to improve their marketing strategies. Together, we explored how the company could leverage data for more strategic, insightful decision-making. It was fascinating to see how the concepts I had learned in the classroom could directly impact business operations, and I was proud to offer recommendations that would potentially drive growth for the company.

A Holistic Experience: Welcome Day, Thank You Day, and Beyond

The programme kicked off with a Welcome Day, where all the mentors, mentees, and organisers gathered to get acquainted. It was a great opportunity to meet other participants, share our goals, and set the tone for the weeks ahead.

As we approached the end of the programme, a Thank You Day was organised to celebrate the journey we had all undertaken. It was an opportunity to reflect on the progress we had made, the knowledge we had gained, and the connections we had formed. Beyond just data analytics, this programme helped build long-lasting professional relationships and gave me a deeper understanding of how businesses function at their core.

Even though the 12-week programme has officially ended, I’m thrilled that the connection with my mentor will continue. We’ve already discussed ways to stay in touch and explore further opportunities for collaboration, which could open doors for both of us in the future.

Certification and Final Thoughts

At the conclusion of the programme, I received a certificate acknowledging my successful participation in the Data Duo Mentoring initiative. This certification is not just a piece of paper but a reflection of the hands-on learning experience I gained, the professional growth I achieved, and the confidence I built in applying data analytics to real-world challenges.

Overall, the Data Duo Mentoring programme has been a game-changer for me. It provided the perfect balance of academic learning and industry exposure, and I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to contribute to a real business while sharpening my skills. I look forward to carrying the lessons I’ve learned forward as I continue my career in business analytics!

Find out more

Data Duo Mentoring for Professionals

Study MSc Business Analytics at Queen's

India: Admissions Guide

Madhurya Jagadeesh MSc Business Analytics | Postgraduate Student | India I am a dedicated Business and Data Analyst with a strong academic foundation and a history in various analytical roles. My educational journey includes a Master of Science in Business Analytics from Queen's University Belfast and a Bachelor of Engineering in Information Science & Engineering.