‘Imagine balancing a demanding job, intense coursework, and family life all at once – it was like juggling flaming torches while riding a unicycle!’
Meet Victor Nzioka, husband, Enterprise Manager at KWAL, girl dad, and recent graduate of Master in Data Science and Analytics to add to his long list of accomplishments. Victor’s journey is a testament to George Herbert’s famous quote, ‘Where there is a will there’s a way.’ He returned to school after establishing himself in his career to pursue his passion for data science. A decision that many would shy away from further solidified Victor’s determination to pursue his passion despite facing adversity.
Mr. Nzioka, a man of relentless activity, bestowed upon us a rare honor by sparing his valuable time to reflect and recount his journey at @iLabAfrica, Strathmore University. He delved into his deep passion for data science and shared insights into how he deftly balanced it all.
- What inspired you to pursue a Master of Science in Data Science and Analytics?
As an Enterprise Applications Manager at KWAL who ensures business apps run smoothly and innovatively, data science caught my eye because of its amazing power to transform decisions with data-driven insights.
The fast-paced world of data analytics and machine learning captivated me. I knew diving deeper into these fields would sharpen my skills and open up a whole new career path. My ultimate dream? To ditch the 8-5 grind and become a globetrotting consultant who can work from anywhere in the world, even into my 80s. All I need is my trusty laptop and a good internet connection – no office required!
- How has your academic journey been at Strathmore University?
My two-year academic journey at Strathmore University has been both challenging and rewarding. The university provided a rigorous curriculum that balanced theoretical knowledge with practical applications. One of the highlights was participating in collaborative projects with peers from diverse backgrounds, which enriched my learning experience and broadened my perspective. Additionally, the guest lectures from industry experts and the hands-on workshops were enlightening and provided real-world insights into data science. The professors and faculty members have been instrumental in shaping my learning experience through their innovative teaching styles. One standout was Dr. Chris Njunge, whose unique approach included guest speakers, journal explorations, TED Talks, and various articles, concluding with insightful parting shots. This blend of real-world experience and academic rigor fostered critical thinking, provided invaluable guidance, and enhanced my understanding of the subject matter and its practical applications.
- What challenges did you face and how did you overcome them?
One of the biggest hurdles I tackled was diving back into the world of textbooks and exams after a 14-year hiatus on the brink of hitting the big 4-0. Imagine balancing a demanding job, intense coursework, and family life all at once – it was like juggling flaming torches while riding a unicycle!
To keep things from spiraling out of control, I became a time management ninja, setting up a strict schedule and sticking to it. Online resources and study groups became my secret weapons, helping me conquer tricky subjects. Plus, I couldn’t have made it without the amazing support from my wife and kids, who created the perfect environment for me to focus and thrive. And of course, the encouragement from my professors and fellow students was like having a team of academic cheerleaders always there to guide me through the tough times.
- Can you describe a project or assignment that you are particularly proud of?
One project I’m particularly proud of involved using cutting-edge data science techniques to delve into the fascinating world of biblical texts. I conducted a comparative analysis of three Bible versions: the American Standard Version (ASV), the Bible in Basic English (BBE), and the King James Version (KJV), with a primary focus on the KJV. Utilizing natural language processing (NLP), I trained and evaluated information retrieval (IR) models, analyzing large datasets, performing feature engineering, and applying machine learning algorithms to uncover linguistic variations. The models excelled in handling complex queries, suitable for in-depth religious education, theological research, and sermon preparation. This project showcased the practical application of NLP in analyzing and retrieving information from complex, historical documents, offering significant benefits for religious education, research, and more.
- What contributed to your academic success?
Several factors have helped me reach the end, including the unwavering support and encouragement from my family, friends, and colleagues. The mentorship and guidance from my professors and the collaborative learning environment at Strathmore University were instrumental. Moreover, the backing from KWAL management, who approved my research on KWAL data and supported the development of my project, provided invaluable real-world context and motivation. My passion for data science and determination to achieve my goals also played a crucial role, alongside consistent effort, effective time management, and maintaining a positive mindset throughout the journey
- What are your plans after graduation and what kind of job or role are you looking to pursue in the tech industry?
After graduation, I plan to continue leveraging my skills in data science to drive innovation and efficiency within the tech industry. I am particularly interested in roles that involve data analytics, machine learning, and business intelligence. I aim to secure a position where I can contribute to data-driven decision-making processes and develop cutting-edge solutions to complex business challenges. Additionally, I aspire to take on leadership roles that allow me to mentor and guide other aspiring data scientists. Beyond this, I desire to transfer my skills by teaching part-time, creating machine learning models that address some of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and finding part-time consulting jobs from across the globe to sharpen my skills and earn additional income.
In reflecting on his journey, Victor embodies the essence of resilience and determination. Returning to school in his late 30s was not merely a career pivot, but a testament to his unwavering commitment to personal growth and academic excellence. His experiences have not only enriched his own life but have also inspired those around him, demonstrating that age is never a barrier to pursuing one’s passions and achieving dreams.
By @iLabAfrica Research and Innovation Centre, Strathmore University