Sansitha Nandakumar
Name: Sansitha Nandakumar
Program: Sport Management
Level or Degree: Master’s
What are you involved in?
I am a dual master's student in Sport Management and Data Science.
How has the School of Kinesiology prepared you for your post-graduation goals?
Kinesiology gave me the skills to identify sports products from a unique perspective and explore new opportunities. I came in with the aspiration of becoming a sports analyst. I was able to take a variety of classes to master my skills as a data analyst, which led me to pursue my second master’s at the School of Information (data scientist track).
What makes the School of Kinesiology unique?
I’m able to build a diverse set of skills, ranging from research formation, strategy, legal issues, and financial management of a team to data analytics. There is a lot of freedom in the classes that we want to take depending on the career we’re interested in.
Tell us about your favorite experience in your program/degree.
My favorite experience in the program is when I was called to interview my classmates as a class activity. I had to act as the host of a TV channel and ask questions on the spot.
I’m able to build a diverse set of skills, ranging from research formation, strategy, legal issues, and financial management of a team to data analytics. There is a lot of freedom in the classes that we want to take depending on the career we’re interested in.
How have you changed academically, personally, or professionally since being admitted to the University of Michigan and the School of Kinesiology?
My career aspirations and goals have changed a lot since I was admitted. A year ago, I did not know what data analysis meant, but now I have gained the skills to analyze data and generate valuable insights. I am doing a project right now about tennis, which analyzes the influencing factors of a victory or defeat in tennis tournaments.
What is your favorite thing to do in Ann Arbor?
Taking a walk downtown, getting coffee at Starbucks, grabbing a burger at Frita Batidos, and eating ice cream at Blank Slate Creamery (sad it's closed in the winter).