Posted by Hear from Ashvin Suresh, a Data Assistant at the Wasserman Center on his experience working with the Life Beyond the Square survey. He shares the importance of skills development, using data to make informed decisions, and finding community at work. Check it out!
Hey everyone, I’m Ashvin Suresh, a master student in the Management of Technology Program at the Tandon School of Engineering. I wanted to talk to you about my experience working at the Wasserman Center for Career Development during my master’s program and how it’s shaped me to be ready to begin the next leg of my career!
What do I do?
I’ve been fortunate enough to work as Data Assistant at the Wasserman Center since Fall 2022. What exactly does it mean to be a Data Assistant? Well, the easy answer is that I help with all things data related to career outcomes. What’s the long answer? Every year, NYU asks the graduating class to fill out a Life Beyond the Square Survey. This survey is used to understand what students pursue after their time at NYU. I help my amazing supervisor (Shoutout Liz) ensure that everything related to this survey is as accurate as can be!
How does that matter?
Every year, universities report outcomes from their graduating class. I’m going to be a little shameless and use that as a quick segue to point you to our report for this year!! We then use this data in various ways. Schools can look at it to understand how their students are doing, and if they need to tinker around with programs. Career coaches look at it to understand trends in the career outlook of NYU students and upskill themselves to help students better. And possibly something I relate to strongly – Prospective students look at this data to make a decision about their university selection!
What skills have you picked up during your time at the Wasserman Center?
From the 10 Violet Ready Skills, I would have to honestly say – all of them. The Wasserman Center is such a lively, fun place to be. The staff are incredibly kind and warm, and I’ve often felt at home with them. Every interaction with them has been fulfilling and often has me learning more and more.
In terms of career ready skills, I’d have to say that my work definitely sharpened all of my data handling skills. From Excel all the way to managing databases and networking, I’d have to say its been an experience. I’ve worked with Python, Databases, Servers, Tableau, and often found myself diving into statistical, and economical analysis.
Do you have any final message for your peer students?
To the graduating class (I’ll also be graduating in May) – Congratulations!!! We’ve made it through this journey and we’re going to keep moving upwards! I hope that you’ve enjoyed your journey, just as much as I have mine. And just a reminder – Fill out your Life Beyond the Square survey!
Signing off,
Ashvin Suresh
NYU Wasserman Blog 