From SC&I to Data-Driven Impact: Meet Nataliyah Gordon MI'26, ITI'25
SC&I alumna Nataliyah Gordon MI'26, ITI'25, is building a career using data to improve customer experience, operations, and business performance. She reflects on the Rutgers courses and experiences that helped shape her path.
Can you tell us a little about yourself and your journey to SC&I?
I recently earned my Master of Information with a concentration in Data Science at SC&I, after completing my bachelor’s degree in Information Technology and Informatics at Rutgers–New Brunswick, where I also minored in Cognitive Science. I grew up in Edison, New Jersey.
What led you to choose SC&I for your graduate studies?
I chose SC&I for my graduate studies because it felt like a natural continuation of my undergraduate experience. I had a great experience with both the coursework and faculty during my time at Rutgers. The dual-degree pathway also gave me the opportunity to further explore my interest in data science and information studies. I wanted to be better equipped as an information professional and build skills that would help me throughout my career.
What led you to select the Data Science concentration?
I chose the Data Science concentration because, during my undergraduate studies in Information Technology and Informatics, I found myself gravitating toward analytics-focused courses. I had already begun applying data analysis techniques through internships and professional experiences focused on sales analytics and business insights. I knew the concentration would allow me to dive deeper into topics such as SQL, database management, data visualization, and analytical problem-solving while strengthening the technical skills I was already using in industry.
What SC&I classes or learning experiences had the most impact on you?
Information Visualization, Database Design and Management, Problem Solving with Data, Competitive Intelligence, and Project Management were the courses that had the biggest impact on me. The projects and assignments in those classes were directly applicable to the work I do today. For example, concepts I learned in Database Design and Management helped me build a product database that became a useful tool during a previous internship. Project Management introduced me to methodologies that are valuable across industries and taught me how to prioritize work, lead projects, and collaborate effectively with teams. Competitive Intelligence was especially impactful because I had already worked in that space through internships, and the course helped me better understand the different frameworks and approaches professionals use to analyze markets and competitors.
What are you doing now, and what's next for you?
I am currently working as a CX Specialist and Analyst within the Operational Excellence business unit at Agilex Fragrances, part of dsm-firmenich. In my role, I have already been able to apply many of the concepts I learned at SC&I by building dashboards, identifying operational gaps, and improving business visibility through data. My work includes data management, CRM and SAP reporting, dashboard development, and operational analytics focused on improving customer experience and business performance.
One thing I enjoy about my career so far is the variety of experiences I have gained across different functions and industries. My degree has given me the flexibility to contribute to many different teams because data plays a central role in nearly every business function. Being able to understand, analyze, and communicate data effectively is a skill that will help me no matter where my career takes me.
In addition to my full-time role, I have also been working on consulting projects through Gordon Atelier, where I help clients improve their digital experiences. Moving forward, I hope to continue using my background in data and information to help organizations make better decisions and drive business strategy.
What advice do you have for current and/or prospective SC&I students?
My biggest piece of advice is to stay open to learning new things and never be afraid to ask questions. Be curious, be inquisitive, and have confidence in your abilities. Take the work you do in your courses and turn it into projects you can showcase in a portfolio, because those projects often become great talking points during interviews.
I would also encourage students to always think about the "why" behind their work. In my case, I often think about the business context and why the work matters. Understanding the impact of what you're doing is just as important as completing the task itself. If you can connect your work to a larger goal and become someone who drives positive change, you'll stand out no matter what field you enter.
