Andrea Palomino Vargas is now a Senior Risk Data Scientist at Scotiabank, applying her data science skills in the banking sector. Originally from Lima, Peru, she built her foundations with a Bachelor’s in Data Science before choosing to continue her training in Madrid through IE School of Science & Technology.
She joined the Master in Business Analytics & Data Science* to strengthen both her technical ability and her business perspective. Her goal was clear: learn more about data in a way that could translate directly into long-term career growth. From the start, she connected with the program’s hands-on approach, designed to help students develop skills in data science, business transformation and big data through practical, real-world learning.
Applying real-world knowledge from the start
Andrea valued how quickly the program moved into applied learning. The Master in Business Analytics & Data Science emphasized building job-relevant skills through hands-on teaching and direct exposure to how data work happens inside companies. Students did not need prior experience in technology or data. Instead, the program supported them in learning new skills and gaining directly applicable knowledge for their business ambitions.
She said she chose the program because she wanted a more strategic approach to data science and data analysis. Andrea also highlighted the value of studying with professors who worked on real projects: “they actually work on data projects and know the real world, and how they can apply their technical knowledge in companies.”
As she settled into Madrid, she also spoke about how the experience helped her grow personally and professionally. By the end of the program, she expected to feel clearer and more confident in her skills. “I think that this program will give me more insights into how I can manage different kinds of projects, and also give me more confidence in myself about the things I already know,” she said.
Encouraging diversity in the tech industry
Before her master’s, Andrea had experience in banking and understood how quickly technology was changing traditional industries. She believed large banks needed to update their operations to keep up with fintech and digital banking competition.
She also emphasized how widely data science skills could apply. “Nowadays,” she said, “Any industry needs data science. There’s so much data out there, but few people know how to use it, and how to convert it into knowledge.”
When she arrived at IE School of Science & Technology, she noticed the diversity of the cohort right away. She described the tech industry as traditionally male-dominated, and said that in Peru, it was still that way. At IE, she experienced a different environment, with almost half of the cohort being women. With diversity as one of IE School of Science & Technology’s core values, she said the program stood out as a space where more women could build confidence and visibility in tech.
Investing in a top business analytics degree
Andrea encouraged prospective students to consider the Master in Business Analytics & Data Science as a way to build strong foundations in big data and develop skills connected to leadership and innovation. She stressed that applicants did not need to be “the perfect person who can code or who knows about technology.” What mattered most was motivation and enjoyment of the learning process: “I think that if you have the motivation to be in this program and you genuinely enjoy it, you’ll do great.”
Since completing her studies, Andrea has developed experience across energy and retail industries, with technical strengths in Python, SQL, Power BI, and Looker Studio. Her focus has remained on generating actionable insights and building practical solutions that support business performance. She has continued building her career in banking, progressing into her current role as a Senior Risk Data Scientist at Scotiabank.
*This program was previously called the Master in Business Analytics & Big Data during Andrea’s time of study.
