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We sure enjoyed our chat with Prosper Ukachi, Miva Star of the Week currently pursuing a B.Sc Data Science at Miva Open University.
In this interview, Prosper shares insights into his academic journey, the flexibility of online learning, and his passion and aspirations in the field of data science.
In This Post
Favourite Musician and Song
Before we get into the nitty-gritty, who is your favourite musician, and what’s your favourite song right now?
My favourite musician is Lil Wayne, and my favourite song is I’m Not Scared of the Dark by Lil Wayne and Ty Dolla $ign. I don’t know if you’ve watched Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse. The song was featured there.
I love the Spider-Verse Series!
Data Science at Miva
Why did you choose Data Science, and why Miva Open University?
I’ve always been fascinated by statistics—things like Nigeria’s population size or Africa’s economy. I always love to share those kinds of information. Even before joining Miva, I had a natural interest in data science and education.
When I discovered Miva Open University offered this programme, it felt like a wake-up call for me.
I love data. I love statistics. I love to get into the numbers of things.
The application process was also simple, with no application fees, and I could easily browse course details online. That made the decision easy.
Someone Say, “Flexibility”
Hmm. Why did you choose Miva Open University though?
For someone like me who works and has other projects, I want to be able to study and work at the same time. I didn’t really fancy having to go to a physical campus.
The ability to study from home and only go to campus for exams meant that I didn’t need to spend all my time coming in-person to the campus. That really saved a lot of time for me.
That’s lovely. We hope to see a data guru in a few semesters.
Of course.
The Impact of Data Science
How do you think your programme—Data Science—can make a positive impact on people?
One major challenge in Africa is the lack of emphasis on data. Many people cite statistics without proper context. Data science helps one break down these numbers in a way that’s easy to understand.
Favourite Course
So far, do you have a favourite course?
Yes. The course I liked most was GST 127: Introduction to Sustainability. What I liked about it was that the lecturer was straightforward and the course was easy to follow. I got an A in it!
I love it too because even in data science, you want to be able to use the data you have access to to help businesses ensure that their spending is sustainable.
You do not work in a company where their expenses are greater than their revenue.
Making Friends at Miva
Have you made friends at Miva Open University? If you have, you can give them a shout out.
Yes, I’ve made friends, but as guys, we don’t always remember names!
So everyone is a “Chairman”?
Everyone is a “Chairman.” That’s how we connect.
Wow. Have you joined any study groups yet?
Yes, I’m in the general cohort group, department-specific groups, and sometimes smaller project-based groups.
Tell us: how has your experience been with your success advisor?
My success advisor prefers emails, but she’s very active and helpful. She has improved my university experience significantly.
Having a good success advisor is very important.
Balancing Work, Study, and Projects
Earlier, you mentioned that you work. How do you balance work, study, and other projects?
If I have a big project, I prioritise that early in the week and study later in the week. If you have a job, say 8-5, you’ll need to study in the evenings at home.
I mostly schedule my study to times when I’m less busy.
I also check the Learning Management System (LMS) to know what I’ve covered and what I haven’t. This helps me strategise.
That’s great. Just planning, basically.
Exactly.
Have you faced any challenges studying online? How did you overcome them?
When I had just started, I noticed that the website wasn’t loading for me. I had thought that that was a problem everyone had but I discovered I was the only one having that.
By changing network providers, I was able to get a good experience. An online student would also need to ensure that studying fits their schedule.
In One Word and To Prospects
If you could describe Miva Open University in one word, what would it be?
Integrity.
Personally, I love to do what I say. Miva Open University improves as they say they would and responds to you when you raise complaints.
If you knew a person considering Miva, what would you say to them?
If you want something that can challenge you to take a leap or if you want a school that’s flexible, choose Miva!
Conclusion
Prosper Ukachi’s journey highlights the benefits of online learning, the importance of data literacy, and the flexibility Miva Open University offers.
His passion for data science and structured approach to balancing work and study make him a promising future data expert, don’t you think?
Lastly, like Prosper said, “If you want something that can challenge you to take a leap or if you want a school that’s flexible, choose Miva!”
