M.S. BANA Graduate Advances Her Analytics Career and Graduates with Honors
For Siri Palnati, pursuing the master of science in business analytics program at the David Nazarian College of Business and Economics meant taking a major leap: leaving behind her family, home and career in India to continue her academic and professional journey in the United States.
Palnati graduated with honors from the M.S. BANA program. Looking back, she says the decision to join the program was both exciting and intimidating, but ultimately one of the most rewarding experiences of her life.
“As an international student, moving from India to pursue the M.S. in business analytics program at CSUN was both exciting and scary,” Palnati says. “I was initially skeptical about whether I would be suitable for such challenging coursework, but now, having graduated with honors, I can say the journey was truly great and completely worth it.”
Before joining Nazarian College, Palnati gained early exposure to analytics through her role at Accenture, a leading global professional services company, in Hyderabad, India. The M.S. BANA program helped her build on that experience and connect her technical foundation to real-world business applications.
“My prior experience at Accenture gave me some initial exposure to analytics, but this program has helped me build on that experience and connect it to real-world business applications,” she says.
One of the most valuable parts of the program for Palnati was the opportunity to work with real-world, large datasets. Through hands-on projects, she was able to apply classroom concepts in practical ways while strengthening her analytical and problem-solving skills.
Beyond technical learning, Palnati says the program helped her grow academically, personally and professionally.
“Another part of the program that I truly appreciate is the cohort-based system,” she says. “It created a fun and supportive school environment where I could develop meaningful relationships and a real sense of connection with my classmates.”
Palnati also found purpose in supporting others during her time in the program. One of her most meaningful experiences was tutoring BANA students, an opportunity she says she will always cherish.
She also credits the faculty for thoughtfully designing courses that challenge students while helping them build skills.
“The program challenges you, and when you earn a good grade, it feels meaningful because you know you truly worked for it,” she said.
For prospective students, especially those who may be new to analytics, Palnati says the program helps students build from the fundamentals while developing practical skills along the way.
“My advice to prospective students is to stay curious, be consistent and take full advantage of the hands-on projects, faculty support and networking opportunities the program offers,” Palnati says.
Palnati’s journey reflects the impact of a program that combines technical training, real-world application and a strong student community. Through her work ethic, curiosity and commitment to growth, she not only completed the M.S. BANA program, but she graduated with honors and built a stronger foundation for the next stage of her analytics career.