The Future
As I approach the completion of my Bachelor of Science in Information Science at the University of South Florida, I have been reflecting on my career aspirations and the goals that guide me forward. My major is directly tied to my professional path, as I intend to continue growing in the field of data engineering and eventually transition into data science. This career direction excites me because it allows me to work hands-on with technology while solving complex problems through data. I chose this path after realizing how much satisfaction I gain from analyzing information, designing systems, and building solutions that have a practical impact. My studies, combined with my professional experiences, have demonstrated that this is not only a strong career fit but also a field with opportunities for ongoing learning and advancement.
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My experiences so far have already given me a solid foundation. I currently work with SQL Server Integration Services (SSIS) and have been involved in migrating client data from traditional data warehouses into Snowflake. These experiences directly connect to my studies, where I have developed skills in SQL, R, and Python, as well as gained exposure to predictive analytics and machine learning. Although my formal job title focuses on development, the skills I practice every day, like data wrangling, structuring pipelines, and problem-solving, are highly transferable to my career goals in data engineering and data science. This hands-on background gives me confidence that I am on the right path.
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For this assignment, I explored the USF Career Services resources in more detail than I had before. The Career Services website provided information about career readiness and career pathways, giving me a clearer picture of the skills and certifications that can strengthen my profile. The “My Plan” platform was particularly useful because it outlined career paths related to my major, highlighting the educational requirements, job responsibilities, and advancement opportunities. I also reviewed the USF Libraries’ job and career guide, which pointed me to additional resources on current job market trends (I particularly liked the Glassdoor link). These tools helped me see how my short-term goals, such as completing my degree and earning certifications like Snowflake and Power BI, align with my long-term career advancement in the field.
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Looking ahead, my goal is to secure a senior-level technical position where I can apply my skills directly to solving business and data challenges. I am not pursuing a management track; rather, I want to remain focused on technology and the problem-solving side of data work. My next steps include completing my bachelor's degree, earning certifications, and building a portfolio of projects that showcase my technical skills. Over time, I also hope to expand into areas such as artificial intelligence and cybersecurity, applying my skills to projects that create real impact. By leveraging USF resources, professional networks, and my own motivation to learn, I believe I am positioning myself for success in a career that aligns with both my interests and strengths.
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In conclusion, this reflection has helped me solidify my understanding of my career aspirations and the steps I need to take to achieve them. My major in Information Science directly supports my goals, and my current experiences give me confidence that I am building the proper foundation. The resources at USF, combined with professional experiences and continued learning, are guiding me toward a clear and rewarding career path. With focus, persistence, and the support of these tools, I am confident that I will reach my goals in the field of data engineering and data science.
REFERENCES
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​University of South Florida Career Services. (n.d.). Career Services. https://careers.usf.edu
​University of South Florida Libraries. (n.d.). Job and career resources.https://guides.lib.usf.edu/jobandcareer
​MyPlan.com. (n.d.). USF MyPlan. https://usf.myplan.com