From Maintaining to Creating: Masters in Applied Security and Analytics Helps Students Go Further

After completing studies in computer engineering in his home country of Nepal, Nakul Rayamajhi ’18 quickly found work in his field of study updating databases and repairing or modifying existing software and generic applications. The work was enjoyable, but knew he wanted to do so much more. A recommendation from a friend, encouraged him to look into the University of Findlay’s Master of Science in Applied Security and Analytics (MSASA) Program. There, he found the guidance and skills necessary to pursue a productive career he was passionate about.

“I was interested in Findlay’s program because my friend really emphasized how the core courses focused on practical tools and their uses,” Rayamajhi said. “Several tools, including R, Tableau and SQL were taught and that ended up helping me decide my career path.”

The MSASA program prepares computer science professionals to work as specialists in secure software development and big data analytics as both technical and managerial leaders. Consultation with an advisory board comprised of alumni and leaders in information technology (IT) and security, ensures what is taught aligns with the current demands of the field.

Drawn initially by the comprehensive course offerings, Rayamajhi found over the course of the two-year program that Findlay had something extra to offer. “All students have one-on-one mentoring from faculty where you can discuss any issues or receive guidance,” he said. “Their motivation, inspiration and empowerment helped me to graduate and acquire leadership skills that have become very useful in my job.”

Along with mentorship throughout the program, Rayamajhi received support in another way. The program requires students to create and complete a capstone project that incorporates elements of management, leadership and security, analytics or data management. The project is judged by a two faculty, and possibly an external client, on the basis of a written report and verbal presentation. While this graduation requirement can be daunting Rayamajhi never felt intimidated. He stated, “I was able to choose my capstone mentor, which allowed me to work with someone who had in-depth knowledge in the topic I was working on. It really allowed me to become a subject matter expert and develop concrete skills to take with me into the job market.”

After graduating, Rayamajhi did not venture far from Findlay. He currently works at Syneos Health in Worthington, Ohio as an ad strategy activation executive. Leveraging his new background in R, SQL, and Tableau he now develops client-facing dashboards, implements digital tracking code, ensures data quality, uses SQL to connect data sources, and monitors data sets to find trends. He enjoys his new position, and is happy to have found a job where he can use the skills he learned at Findlay every day.