(Degree Apprenticeship in Digital and Technology Solutions Specialist (Data Analytics) MSc, 2022)
Dr Maggie Aderin-Pocock MBE is a huge inspiration of mine! She made me feel invincible as it was one of the first times that I had seen a space scientist who was also a black woman. She made me want to be someone who inspired that same feeling in other young women and neurodivergent people.
You studied a degree apprenticeship at Queen Mary in MSc Digital and Technology Solutions Specialist (Data Analytics) which allowed you to study part-time whilst working for GSK as a Process Analytical Technology Engineer. Why did you choose this route as opposed to a traditional study route?
I had previously completed a BEng and MSc in Advanced Chemical Engineering; throughout those traditional degrees, I felt that the course material would have been better if there was more practical application. The degree apprenticeship course sparked my interest because there was a large emphasis on ‘on-the-job’ learning. I had been specialising in multivariate modelling over the past year within my role but wanted to strengthen my ability to innovate by increasing the breadth of my data science knowledge. I do a lot of troubleshooting in my job so as I broadened my skillset throughout my degree, I was able to provide a greater amount of support to my manufacturing site. Not only does it benefit my colleagues and our company, but it helped me get to where I wanted to within my career.
How did you first discover that degree apprenticeships existed and what was the application process like?
A year into my role as Process Analytical Technology Engineer, I saw that there was an opportunity to upskill and become more competent at my job. I met a colleague who was taking part in an apprenticeship in Data Science within my company. My manager and I knew this would be a great opportunity for me to develop my skillset and to help me get to where I wanted to be career-wise. Apprenticeships are encouraged at GSK, so I was lucky to be able to apply almost instantly after conversations with my manager and departmental director.
To gain acceptance to the course, I had to bring copies of documentation such as my Math & English GCSEs, degree certifications from my previous qualifications, and my passport etc. My company applied on my behalf, and I only had to complete a questionnaire to assess how advanced my current data analysis skills were.
My current role is the fruit of my degree apprenticeship. My role is the amalgamation of a data scientist role and a chemical engineering role. I perform global manufacturing investigations using data-led techniques.
How did you find the experience of working part-time alongside your studies?
The course uses the format of block sprint modules to deliver course content, meaning that the content of each module is covered in a week of continuous lecturing. The sprint week consists of both lectures and labs where we apply what we’ve learnt in the lectures to practical examples and learn how to use different software. Coursework is due a few weeks after our modules have finished and exams take place in May and January.
I was lucky to have great management behind me. I was able to separate my time in work away from the time I had for my apprenticeship. I dedicated an entire day a week solely to my apprenticeship which I discussed with my manager from the outset. This way I was not derailed by my other work commitments. The time split has allowed me to do well in my course, and to get the correct balance between work and studies. I was able to easily adjust to my new workload without any issues.
What support did you receive throughout the duration of your degree apprenticeship?
I am neurodivergent and the University provided me with mentorship sessions when I approached them for extra support. The EECs wellbeing team were exceptional throughout my degree.
The apprenticeship manager at GSK was also a great source of support. He helped to liaise with the University when I saw areas in which improvements to the course could be made. This open feedback system was important to the University, and I could see how they listened to the students and adapted to suggestions.
My manager was an exceptional source of support throughout my degree. She helped me to find great projects and gave me the space I needed to study and complete assignments.
Which modules did you most enjoy as part of the theoretical side of your degree?
The highlight of this course for me has been the Machine Learning module. Not only was it exceptionally interesting, but it was also very practical. I have consistently been able to apply the theory and skills gained from that module within my work life.
I see my future self as a Data Science leader and an advocate for better accessibility and diversity within STEM fields.
What was it like to work for GSK as an apprentice alongside your existing role there? Did you work on any exciting projects?
My company has been highly supportive throughout my apprenticeship. I was able to have very open conversations about my needs throughout the degree.
As a result of my increased knowledge, I was able to deliver increasingly complex projects, which enabled me to gain trust with my stakeholders and senior managers. I was able to make tangible differences in my workplace. I was then able to turn around and pass on my new knowledge to my colleagues in the form of training sessions, to ensure that multiple departments benefitted from my newfound skills.
You are currently a Product and Portfolio Innovation Analyst at GSK. What are some of your daily responsibilities and how has your degree apprenticeship helped you in this role?
My current role is the fruit of my degree apprenticeship. My role is the amalgamation of a data scientist role and a chemical engineering role. I perform global manufacturing investigations using data-led techniques. I create models and simulations of complex chemical and manufacturing systems. My degree has not only given me the skills needed to create great modelling solutions, but it has also given me insight into a wide range of relevant technologies that give me access to conversations that I would have felt unable to contribute to previously.
What are your future career aspirations?
Who inspires you and why?
Dr Maggie Aderin-Pocock MBE (Space Scientist/Physicist and Educator) is a huge inspiration of mine! As a teenager, watching Dr Maggie as a frequent guest on BBC breakfast was profound. She would discuss scientific hot-topics and explain the latest breakthroughs in research in such an engaging way. She made me feel invincible as it was one of the first times that I had seen a space scientist who was also a black woman. She made me feel empowered. She made me want to be someone who inspired that same feeling in other young women and neurodivergent people. That’s why I participate in multiple STEM accessibility mentoring programs aimed at encouraging underrepresented groups to enter the STEM field.
If you would like to get in touch with Sherance or engage them in your work, please contact the Alumni Engagement team at alumni@qmul.ac.uk.