Rudy Fernandez Executive Vice President for University Operations and External Affairs and Chief of Staff | School of Education and Human Development News & Events University of Miami
Kelvin Medina, a senior manager for business intelligence at a media company in New York, found the University of Miami's online master's program in data analytics and program evaluation to be the perfect fit for his career goals. Offered through UOnline and the School of Education and Human Development, this fully online program can be completed in less than two years. It provides the skills Medina sought while offering brand recognition beneficial for future employment opportunities.
"I had to be able to continue working full time, I didn't want to have to move, and I wanted to be able to elevate my skills in an advanced setting," said Medina. "UM met all my needs; plus, it's a place with more brand awareness than most online programs."
Medina faced challenges when an unexpectedly busy travel schedule tested UOnline's flexibility. He traveled extensively in 2024, including trips to Japan, London, Austria, and Prague but managed to keep up with his studies. "I knew I couldn't fall behind in school, but I didn't want to say no to seeing the world," he explained.
The program required dedication from Medina even when he wasn't traveling. "It wasn't easy," he admitted. "Plus, I took it a lot more seriously than I did my undergrad work." With a bachelor's degree in advertising, Medina focused on more than just grades during his master's pursuit.
"This degree is more than a piece of paper to me," he said. "Every project was about challenging my skills and learning something new." He emphasized the importance of staying relevant in a changing job market.
Medina believes that what he learned will help him advance beyond basic reporting and coding at his current job. "I want to influence strategy," he stated. The program has expanded his ability to analyze data and apply it strategically.
He praised the support from professors and fellow students throughout the course. "(My professors) were extremely passionate about us and about our education," Medina noted.
For those considering the program, Medina advised: "Stay curious... Always challenge yourself." With his newly acquired skills and knowledge, Medina is ready for greater challenges in data analytics.
"I know I can do much more, and that is what I'm hoping to do with this degree."
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