I was jumping up and down with joy! For the first time, all 51 boxes of the Sudoku puzzle in the “Week-End” newspaper were unerringly filled. For an 8-year-old armed with nothing more than a pencil and a weekly paper, this was a monumental accomplishment. That moment sparked a love for numbers that continues to burn within me, leading me to firmly believe that the world of analytics is where I belong.

Driven by a fascination with patterns and an insatiable curiosity, I found myself drawn to data science—a field that merges statistics, mathematics, and computer science to uncover truths and solve complex problems. This passion brought me to Sydney and SP Jain School of Global Management, where I embarked on a transformative journey to hone my skills and turn my curiosity into expertise.

My first year in Sydney has been more than just an academic pursuit; it has been a journey of growth, self-discovery, and resilience. Adapting to life in a vibrant, multicultural city while navigating a rigorous curriculum has taught me to balance responsibilities, embrace challenges, and thrive in new environments. From mastering machine learning algorithms to working on real-world projects, I’ve come to appreciate the potential of data to drive meaningful change.

What drew me to SP Jain Global wasn’t just its strong curriculum or reputation but its promise of a global perspective and hands-on learning. I wanted to immerse myself in a place where ideas flow freely and where challenges are seen as opportunities to grow. And that’s exactly what I found. From exploring complex datasets to collaborating with talented peers and mentors, every day has been a chance to learn, unlearn, and grow.

One of the most enriching aspects of this journey has been the opportunity to work as a research assistant under the guidance of highly experienced faculty. Collaborating on projects like the impact of AI on global finance and decision-making models has deepened my understanding of data’s practical applications. Beyond academics, the mentorship I’ve received has been pivotal—they’ve encouraged me to think critically, guided me through complex challenges, and instilled confidence in my abilities. Their expertise and unwavering support have inspired me to aim higher and approach every problem with curiosity and determination.

Beyond academics, my journey has been enriched by the Global Learning Program, which offers students the opportunity to learn business in a leading first-world economy. Engaging in various activities to explore Sydney and wider regions of Australia has broadened my cultural horizons and provided a holistic learning experience. Whether it's participating in local events, exploring the natural beauty of Australia, or understanding the business landscape of Sydney, these experiences have been instrumental in shaping my global perspective.

Moreover, this year has taught me invaluable life lessons. I’ve learned resilience in the face of challenges, gratitude for the smallest victories, and the importance of staying grounded while chasing big dreams. Living independently in a new country has also taught me to value discipline—be it managing time, finances, or energy.

Looking back, I feel immense gratitude for the opportunities I’ve had, the mentors who’ve guided me, and the lessons that have shaped me. Moving from Mauritius to Sydney was a leap of faith, but it has been a leap worth taking. This journey is still unfolding, but if there’s one thing I know for sure, it’s that I’m exactly where I’m meant to be—immersed in a world where numbers tell stories, patterns unlock solutions, and learning never stops. Here’s to the journey ahead, with a heart full of gratitude and a mind eager to discover more.

About the Author:

Devanshi Rhea Aucharaz is a first-year Bachelor of Data Science student at SP Jain Global.