Hi Ana! You graduated from the master’s programme in Data Analytics and Business Economics (DABE) in 2024. What have you been up to since your graduation?
It has not been long since my graduation, but it has been fun. One month after completing my studies, I started working at IKEA as a Business Performance Analyst. This role combines my previous business experience in Brazil with the skills I gained during the DABE program at LUSEM. It has been very rewarding to put into practice some things I learned during the masters!
Besides work, I am also attending Swedish classes, trying to develop myself in the language, and spending time with friends and family is a big priority to me. I love traveling, so whenever possible, this is something I try to do.
What motivated you to pursue a master’s degree in Data Analytics and Business Economics at LUSEM?
I believe the Data Analytics and Business Economics program at LUSEM has a unique curriculum, as it is focused on teaching advanced data science skills for people with business backgrounds. I have a bachelor's degree in Economics, and have worked for several years in roles requiring data analysis, but I wanted to deepen my understanding to extract more meaningful insights from data and I felt I needed to receive proper training on that sense.
I believe the Data Analytics and Business Economics program at LUSEM has a unique curriculum, as it is focused on teaching advanced data science skills for people with business backgrounds.
When I found out about DABE, it seemed like the perfect fit. What surprised me even more after starting the classes was the international environment at LUSEM. My classmates came from many different countries and brought a range of professional and academic experiences. So, it was a great opportunity to learn from others. The Swedish approach to education, much more horizontal than hierarchical, is also great to foster critical thinking and collaboration.
Today you work as Business Performance Analyst at IKEA, can you tell us about some of the key projects or initiatives you're currently involved in?
One of my main responsibilities, alongside two teammates, is developing a global sales outlook for IKEA. This is a fascinating task, given our presence in over 60 countries with diverse customer behaviors and seasonal trends. We use data analytics tools to forecast sales and closely monitor the accuracy of our predictions. If adjustments are needed, we act quickly. It has been a challenging and interesting role.
What skills and knowledge from your time in the DABE programme and at LUSEM have been most valuable in your career after graduation?
The first thing that comes to mind is cultural awareness. When I was studying at LUSEM it was the first time I was truly involved in an international environment, and it challenged me to think differently and be more mindful of other perspectives. Currently, in my team at IKEA, we have more than eight nationalities, so it helps me to communicate effectively with my colleagues, avoiding potential misinterpretation and improving collaboration.
When I was studying at LUSEM it was the first time I was truly involved in an international environment, and it challenged me to think differently and be more mindful of other perspectives.
Besides that, the many statistical and machine learning courses we took opened my mind to many tasks we can automate, or to look at things from a less passionate and more analytical approach. It also supports me to hold meaningful discussions purely based on data. Finally, coming back to study in such a dynamic program after six years from my bachelor's degree was not an easy task. I believe I have strengthened my self-confidence navigating new territories, asking clarifying questions when I don’t understand something and taking my time to process new information when needed.
Having worked in both Brazil and Sweden, how would you compare the business cultures of these two countries? What are some key differences you've observed?
I would say that in Brazil we face a very strong fast-paced business environment. Decisions are sometimes made quickly, with the understanding that adjustments can be made along the way if initial results don’t meet expectations. In Sweden, I would say people take more time to consider all the potential aspects of a decision before taking it, even if it takes more time, to have a more controlled outcome. Of course, people don’t wait for perfection, but they’re generally more comfortable taking the time to get things right.
When it comes to interacting with others, I would say both countries share similarities. People tend to be friendly in the work environment, making conscious efforts to develop long-lasting business relationships with others, and genuinely caring about your personal well-being when at work.
What advice would you offer to recent international graduates looking to start their careers in Sweden?
It is not easy to pursue an international career anywhere, so before it all, trust yourself and be resilient!
Be open to networking opportunities, many offered at LUSEM, so you can grow your network in the country
Try to read and understand more about the Swedish culture, so you can better prepare how to position yourself on interviews and on the job market. Be open to networking opportunities, many offered at LUSEM, so you can grow your network in the country – you never know when someone can reach out with an opportunity.
