Northeastern University recently hosted an exciting and insightful Analytics Employer Panel, where industry leaders and students came together to explore how analytics is transforming careers and industries. The panel featured a diverse group of professionals, many of whom are Northeastern alumni and active participants in the university’s co-op program, sharing their experiences and advice with an audience eager to learn.
The event was expertly moderated by Delaney Fordell, who did an excellent job guiding the discussion and ensuring that the insights from each panelist were shared in a dynamic and engaging way. Delaney’s thoughtful questions kept the conversation flowing and made the panel a valuable experience for all attendees.
Raina Chrobak, Senior Manager of Marketing Analytics and Data Science at Mass General Brigham and a proud Northeastern alum, shared her knowledge of using data-driven strategies in healthcare. She explained how analytics is integral to delivering actionable insights, ultimately improving the patient experience. “Harnessing data to deliver actionable insights isn’t just about the numbers—it’s about transforming the patient experience and driving better outcomes across the healthcare system,” she said. Raina also underscored the critical importance of data privacy in healthcare, where protecting sensitive information is paramount.
From the world of finance, Bill Safarik, Managing Director of Direct Client Platform Management and Analytics at Wellington Management, provided his perspective on how analytics plays a pivotal role in understanding and anticipating client needs. Bill, an expert in sales enablement and client analytics, discussed the power of data visualization in improving client relationships and driving operational efficiency. “Analytics is the key to understanding and anticipating client needs. It helps us stay ahead in a rapidly changing marketplace, and that makes all the difference,” he explained. Bill has worked closely with Northeastern’s co-op program, offering students the opportunity to gain hands-on experience applying data analytics to real-world business challenges.
Prasoon Raj, a graduate student in Applied Machine Intelligence at Northeastern, rounded out the panel with his insights on using AI to create impactful solutions. Prasoon is currently working as a GenAI co-op at the Burnes Center for Social Change, where he develops innovative AI-driven tools to address societal challenges. “It’s amazing to see how analytics and AI can come together to tackle challenges in healthcare, education, and beyond. The skills I’ve gained through Northeastern’s co-op program are invaluable,” Prasoon shared. His experience reflected the growing role of AI in analytics and the ways in which this technology is being used to solve real-world problems.
The event also featured a keynote address from Professor Joe Reilly, Program Lead for the MPS in Analytics at Northeastern University. Professor Reilly emphasized the significance of analytics as a key driver of innovation in today’s data-centric world. His keynote speech set the tone for the panel, reminding everyone of the limitless possibilities that analytics offers across industries. He encouraged students to embrace the evolving field and take advantage of the experiential learning opportunities available at Northeastern.
Camille B. Tineo, Project Manager at Anser Advisory, oversees the construction of Northeastern University’s Global Campus in Miami. She shared how analytics has become an essential tool in her work, allowing her team to make informed decisions throughout the project lifecycle. “Analytics is essential in ensuring that complex construction projects stay on time and within budget. It helps us make informed decisions every step of the way,” Camille noted. Her experience with Northeastern’s expansion into new locations offered the audience a fresh perspective on how data can be applied in project management and construction.
Throughout the discussion, the panelists emphasized the importance of co-op and experiential learning in bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application. They encouraged students to seize opportunities to gain hands-on experience, which helps build both technical competencies and soft skills like problem-solving, communication, and leadership. The event made it clear that analytics isn’t confined to a single industry; its reach extends into fields as diverse as healthcare, finance, construction, and education.
As Northeastern continues to create opportunities for students to immerse themselves in real-world applications of their studies, this panel reinforced the value of analytics as a driving force for change across industries. The panelists showcased how skills gained in analytics programs are transforming careers and impacting organizations at every level.
The Analytics Employer Panel was a testament to how Northeastern University is preparing its students to succeed in a world where data is shaping the future. As businesses and organizations continue to leverage data to make more informed decisions, the role of analytics professionals will only become more vital.
Stay tuned for more panels and co-op opportunities, where students can continue to learn from industry experts and apply their skills to real-world challenges.