My Journey
Ever dreamt of juggling a demanding data engineer role with chasing a Master’s degree in CS – all while finding time for epic gaming sessions and staying healthy? That’s my life!
My name is Abdullah, and my journey into the fascinating world of data began at Drexel University, where I graduated with a Data Science degree in mid-2022. Eager to put my knowledge to the test, I landed a role as a Data Engineer at Comcast. There, I’ve been honing my skills by tackling exciting data challenges that keep my mind buzzing. But the quest for knowledge doesn’t stop there! I’m currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Computer Science with a concentration in Data Science at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.
Beyond the professional grind, I’m passionate about gaming (especially those intense Call of Duty matches!) and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Finding balance is key, and I believe these seemingly different worlds complement each other in surprising ways.
My Experience
Work-related
At Comcast, I wear the hat of a Data Engineer, working on the National Subscriber Daily (NSD) data mart. This data mart is a critical resource for C-Level executives, providing them with the latest single source of truth on daily subscriber activity. Imagine the impact! Every day, the scorecard/dashboard I help enhance is used to make key business decisions. This role has not only honed my technical skills (shell scripting, Teradata SQL/BTEQ scripts, Airflow for workflow automation) but also given me valuable insights into the business side of things.
Academic Pursuits
While gaining practical experience at Comcast, I’m also expanding my theoretical knowledge through a Master’s degree in Computer Science with a concentration in Data Science at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign part-time. This program is deepening my understanding of Data Visualization, Database Systems, Cloud Computing, and the exciting world of Machine Learning/AI. The combination of real-world experience and advanced studies allows me to approach data from a well-rounded perspective.
Gaming as a Passion (with a Hint of Expertise)
Now, let’s shift gears to my other passion – gaming! It all began with a trusty Gameboy, and the love affair continues to this day. From conquering fantastical worlds on the PS2 to dominating online matches in Call of Duty (I might even have a few tricks up my sleeve!), gaming has always been a source of enjoyment and stress relief. Expect to see reviews, discussions about upcoming releases, and maybe even some expert tips to help you up your game!
Health and Wellness Importance
Juggling a demanding 9-5 job with studies and personal passions can be a recipe for stress. That’s why I’m passionate about finding ways to achieve a healthy work-life balance. It’s about setting boundaries, prioritizing self-care, and learning to manage stress effectively. Through this blog, I hope to explore and share strategies for maintaining well-being amidst the hustle. Whether it’s finding pockets of time for exercise, incorporating mindfulness practices, or simply disconnecting after work, I believe everyone can create a healthy balance.
Why I Write
I started this blog to share my experiences and insights in the fields of data science, health & wellness, and gaming. Writing allows me to reflect on my journey and connect with others who share similar interests. Whether you’re a data enthusiast, someone seeking a balanced lifestyle, or a fellow gamer, my goal is to provide valuable content that resonates with you. Through this blog, I hope to foster a community where we can learn from each other’s experiences, share valuable tips and tricks, and ultimately find inspiration to achieve a more balanced and fulfilling life that incorporates our passions for data, health, and gaming.
My Goals
In the short term, I’m laser-focused on excelling in both my demanding role at Comcast and my Master’s program at UIUC. This means deepening my expertise in data engineering, particularly by exploring exciting new technologies like AI and Machine Learning.
Looking ahead, I aspire to continuously grow as a data engineer, reaching new heights in my career. Of course, obtaining my Master’s from UIUC remains a top priority. But beyond that, I want to stay at the forefront by continuously learning about the latest trends and technologies. This blog is my way of sharing my journey and inspiring others. Through this platform, I hope to create a vibrant community where we can exchange ideas, share valuable knowledge, and ultimately motivate each other to achieve our best in data science, maintain a healthy and balanced lifestyle, conquer gaming challenges, and explore other exciting areas that come our way.