Summary
Discover how the University of Brighton prepares future data scientists and analysts through real industry insights, expert panels, and hands‑on career‑focused learning.
If you’re thinking about studying Data Science or Data Analytics at the University of Brighton, there’s no better way to understand the field than hearing directly from the people shaping it.
Students recently had the opportunity to attend an inspiring panel event: Inside Data Careers: What the Industry Is Really Like – created to give them a clear, honest picture of what working in data actually involves. The session aimed to help students better understand the pathways emerging within data‑focused professions, while reinforcing how their academic studies connect directly to contemporary industry practice.
The event brought together three external specialists, each offering a unique perspective on what it means to build a career in analytics, data science, and data‑driven product work.
It also marked the launch of our new Data Science BSc degree, designed in close collaboration with industry partners to meet the growing demand for data‑skilled graduates.
Why this event matters for future students
Data careers are evolving fast. New job roles appear every year, companies are becoming more data‑driven, and employers need people who understand both the technical and human sides of analytics.
This event has been designed to help students make sense of the industry landscape, offering a glimpse of the kind of opportunities, experiences, and network connections available at the University of Brighton. Attendees included:
- undergraduate Data Science students
- postgraduate Data Analytics students
- level 6 Computer Science students.
Members of the Silicon Brighton Open Data Forum, a key supporter of the local tech community, kindly joined the panel to share their journeys and answer questions.
Meet the experts: what students learned
How data teams work inside real organisations

Oskar Holm, Senior Data Scientist at Tillo, broke down the inner workings of the data profession. From data pipelines and warehouses to BI systems and modelling, he showed students how organisations turn raw information into meaningful insights.
He also explained common job titles, from data scientist to data engineer to analyst, helping students picture where a Brighton degree could lead them.
Switching into data — and thriving

Anjani Sharma, Head of Data and AI at AiTransformers, offered a personal look at transitioning into the UK tech sector and entering data from another field. Her message to students was clear: a successful data career comes from curiosity, adaptability, and the willingness to learn continuously.
What the job is really like

Andres Baravalle, Principal Product Analyst at On the Beach, brought data work to life with a walk‑through of a typical week in his role. Students gained an insider’s view of how analytics, team collaboration, experimentation, and strategic planning come together in the real world.
Interactive Q&A and panel discussion
To close the session, students were invited to ask the panel anything — from which skills matter most, to how companies hire early‑career analysts, to what the future of AI might mean for their careers.
This interactive element reinforced the collaborative, community‑focused ethos behind the symposium and allowed attendees to gain personalised guidance directly from industry practitioners.
This open conversation gave students confidence, clarity, and a stronger sense of direction — exactly what future data professionals need.
Why study Data Analytics and Data Science at Brighton?
Events like Inside Data Careers are just one part of Brighton’s commitment to preparing students for the workplace. By connecting you with industry networks such as Silicon Brighton, we ensure that your learning goes beyond the classroom.
Whether you’re interested in analysis, machine learning, business intelligence, or AI‑driven innovation, Brighton gives you:
- hands‑on learning
- real‑world projects
- access to industry speakers
- employability‑focused experiences
- a supportive community of experts and peers
Find out more about our Data Science and Analytics degrees on the University of Brighton website.
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