From Sociology to Data Analytics: A Business Insights and Analytics Alumna's Journey

Gizelle Lao’s journey into analytics proves that anyone with the right mindset and education can successfully transition into the field. With a background in sociology and finance, she worked in sales, operations, and marketing, frequently handling data but lacking formal technical expertise. Seeking to bridge this gap, she enrolled in the Business Insights and Analytics (BIA) program.

At Humber, she gained hands-on experience with SQL, Power BI, Tableau, and advanced Excel, transforming her ability to apply data-driven solutions in business. Shortly after, she secured a role at Mackenzie Investments, where she drives key business decisions as a Senior Analyst in sales analytics and reporting.

Gizelle’s story challenges the idea that only technical backgrounds lead to analytics careers. With structured learning, practical skills, and determination, she successfully made the shift—proving that analytics is about problem-solving, not just coding.

Gizelle's Insights on Breaking into Analytics

How did the BIA program help you succeed in the analytics industry despite having no relevant background before?

The BIA program was instrumental in my career transition, helping me challenge traditional perceptions of what it means to be a data professional. Many assume that technical expertise alone defines success in analytics, but the program helped me recognize the value of my transferable skills—critical thinking, storytelling, and data interpretation. It provided hands-on experience with essential tools like Power BI, SQL, and Tableau while fostering a broader understanding of how data drives business innovation. Most importantly, it gave me the confidence to apply my skills in a new industry, proving that data careers are accessible to those willing to learn and adapt.

What advice would you give to students who, like you, don’t have prior analytics experience but want to successfully transition into this field?

Don’t underestimate the experience you already have. Many assume they aren’t ‘qualified’ for analytics roles simply because they don’t have a technical degree, but analytics is more than just coding—it’s about problem-solving, storytelling, and applying data to business challenges. Identify your transferable skills and find ways to enhance them through structured learning. The BIA program gave me both the technical foundation and the confidence to connect analytics with real-world applications. With continuous learning and a proactive mindset, transitioning into this field is absolutely possible.

The analytics industry is not just about technical skills—it’s about understanding how data drives business decisions and creates impact. My journey has shown me that no matter your background, there is always a way to transition into this field. By continuously learning, staying adaptable, and challenging traditional perceptions, we can all find our place in analytics and make meaningful contributions.

Gizelle's Vision for the Future

Gizelle’s vision extends beyond her current role and aims to:

• Bridge business and data science by applying advanced analytics to strategic decision-making.
• Advocate for diverse talent in analytics, proving non-traditional backgrounds belong in the field.
• Master AI and machine learning to stay ahead in marketing and finance analytics.

Gizelle is constantly looking ahead and evolving in the field. She believes data analytics is about getting more meaning from the numbers, it’s about getting their value to create impact. In the future, she aims to expand her expertise in data science, machine learning, and AI to unlock new possibilities in business intelligence.

Share this article: