Aathira G. Nair

Graduate Research Assistant

Aathira is from Nallasopara, a small town on the outskirts of Mumbai, India. During her childhood, Aathira was fortunate to experience a blend of natural green spaces and human-fabricated wonders using concrete. Like her hometown, the A&M-Commerce campus and the city of Commerce offer Aathira a peaceful environment. When she needs to unwind, Aathira can be found at the pavilion, watching the sunset over the lake or enjoying a captivating book.

A Conversation with Aathira

What would you tell a student who is thinking about attending A&M-Commerce? What sets A&M-Commerce apart from other universities?

The wide range of academic programs, dedicated faculty, high reputation and national rankings were the driving factors when I chose A&M-Commerce. I believe what sets A&M-Commerce apart is the student-faculty ratio which is 17:1. Small class size ensures personal attention to all students. This in turn helps us as students to overcome our shortcomings and grow to our complete potential. As an A&M-Commerce student, we not just gain knowledge and complete our degrees, but our faculty and staff strive to prepare us students to become seasoned professionals in our field of study.

How is your degree program preparing you for a career once you graduate from A&M-Commerce?

As a result of the data explosion in current years, data-savvy individuals are in high demand. Businesses flourish by utilizing the insights data provide. The A&M-Commerce business analytics degree program equips graduates for lucrative careers in the expanding data analytics industry. In addition to other skills, the curriculum offers a solid foundation in statistical analysis, data mining and machine learning. Students are exposed to case studies and real-world projects, enabling them to apply what they learn in real-world situations. The course places a strong emphasis on critical thinking, problem-solving and communication abilities. The university's career counseling, networking opportunities and professional competitions offer an extra benefit to an already advantageous situation.

Which professor or staff member has positively influenced you during your time as a student at A&M-Commerce? What will you remember about this professor or staff member?

The most influential professor for me has been Dr. Zaki Malik. It is with immense admiration that I look up to his work. The inspirational teaching methodology he follows leaves students curious to learn more than just what the coursework requires. I have always enjoyed learning and his teaching methodology enhances my desire for knowledge. While all the faculty members are approachable, even beyond working hours, Dr. Malik is a professor who would go above and beyond to ensure student success beyond the classroom. He always has his door open to talk to any student who needs it.

What is an important life lesson you have learned as a student at A&M-Commerce?

As a student at A&M-Commerce, the most significant lesson I learned is the value of persistence, time management and quality of work. The university provides demanding academic programs, and success calls for commitment, restraint, perseverance and attention to detail. We students encounter challenging assignments, constrained timeframes, and unforeseen challenges. We learn to overcome these obstacles and grow stronger and more resilient. These lessons help us not only to achieve academically but also prepare us for the difficulties we might encounter in our personal and professional life when we graduate from college.

Education

• M.S., Business Analytics, Texas A&M University-Commerce, In Progress
• M.S., Computer Engineering, K. J. Somaiya College Of Engineering, Mumbai, 2019

Experience

• Graduate Research Assistant, Texas A&M University-Commerce, 2023