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‘Embrace the Challenges ahead with Enthusiasm’

Md Naoshad Jaman Chowdhury

Md Naoshad Jaman Chowdhury
Photo courtesy of Md Naoshad Jaman Chowdhury

Md Naoshad Jaman Chowdhury, 31, from Dhaka, Bangladesh, obtained a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in Finance and an MBA (International Business) from Dhaka University and graduated from the Master’s Programme in Management and Analytics for Business of HSE University in St Petersburg. Now he works as an HR Analyst at Brain Station 23 PLC, a prominent software company in Bangladesh. Naoshad Jaman talked to the HSE News Service about his career path, the skills he acquired during his studies at HSE University, the challenges he faced while learning Russian, and his plans to become an academic—complete with a big cup of coffee and professor jokes.

How did you learn about HSE University? How and why did you choose to study in St Petersburg?

Online research and academic friends' endorsement of HSE St Petersburg's business analytics and management reputation introduced me to it. I opted to study there due of its global perspective, strong academic standards, and foreign exposure in St Petersburg.

I chose ‘Management & Analytics for Business’ in 2021–2022 because it fits my analytics and business strategy job ambitions

My present position as HR Analyst at a well-known software company in Bangladesh allows me to put my knowledge of analytics and business management to use by helping to make data-driven choices and streamline HR strategy. As an HR Analyst, I analyse workforce data, develop metrics, support recruitment, and assist with performance management. I generate reports, conduct compensation analysis, and collaborate on improving HR processes and employee engagement strategies.

Knowledge Management was one of the most intriguing courses for me. I found it intriguing since it focuses on how businesses may successfully gather, exchange, and use information to improve decision-making, innovation, and general efficiency. It is closely related to my interest in streamlining company processes and harnessing data for strategic gain.

Who were the most impressive professors and why did you like their lectures/seminars?

HSE University is fortunate to have Natalia Volkova, Associate Professor at the HSE Campus in St Petersburg , as a professor. Her captivating presentations demonstrate her mastery of statistical analysis and scientific policy. Both students and faculty benefit from her seminars because of her enthusiasm for research assessment and her talent for simplifying difficult ideas. Her groundbreaking pedagogical and methodological approaches stand out.

Photo courtesy of Md Naoshad Jaman Chowdhury

How was the group work in class?

We worked well together.

Teammates were competent and friendly, each with their own skills

We communicated effectively, fulfilled deadlines, and provided great work. Productive discussions produced innovative solutions. The favourable environment improved learning and project performance.

What difficulties did you have during your studies? How did you overcome them? Did you get any support and assistance?

Initially, I faced challenges due to language barriers, which caused significant stress. However, my assigned buddy provided invaluable support, helping me navigate the initial cultural and academic shock. Her guidance and patience was instrumental in my adaptation process. With her assistance, I gradually overcame these difficulties and became more confident in my studies.

I want to thank HSE for initiating the buddy system for international students

Which subjects and skills that you learned at HSE University are the most relevant to your work ? 

— The people analytics skills from HSE, including data analysis, workforce planning, and employee sentiment analysis, have been invaluable in my HR Analyst role. These tools help drive data-informed decisions and strategic HR initiatives.

How was the transition to professional life after your studies? What challenges did you experience? 

Starting my career after graduation was exciting. Adapting to workplace relationships was difficult, but HSE skills helped. Each challenge was an opportunity to improve, making the journey exciting and illuminating.

My big professional dream is to become a respected academician while excelling in my role as an analyst

I aspire to bridge the gap between academic research and practical application in the field of HR analytics, contributing valuable insights to both academia and industry.

What are your plans for near future?

My immediate future plans include pursuing a PhD. I'm excited to delve deeper into academic research, building upon the foundation laid during my time at HSE. This next step will allow me to contribute more significantly to my field and enhance my expertise in people analytics.

In 10 years, I want to be a professor at HSE and add a fun spin to HR data

I will be the person with the big coffee mug. My ‘data dances’ and jokes will make numbers fun. Students will have a great time learning how cool numbers can be.

Photo courtesy of Md Naoshad Jaman Chowdhury

Where did you live in St Petersburg?

Nestled in the heart of St Petersburg, our dorm became a vibrant microcosm of student life. Shared kitchens buzzed with international flavours and late-night chats. Despite occasional quirks, the camaraderie forged in those narrow hallways made it home. Every creaky floorboard held a story, every common room a cherished memory.

St Petersburg's breathtaking beauty and illustrious history really enchanted me. My favourite is the Hermitage Museum, which takes visitors on an awe-inspiring tour of Russian art and culture inside a magnificent castle.

Red Square in Moscow awed me after St Petersburg. The grand size, bright St Basil's Cathedral, and old Kremlin walls produced an amazing ambiance that blended Russia's rich history with its lively present.

How is your Russian? 

— My Russian journey? Picture a toddler trying to swim across the Pacific! I've mastered ‘да’ and ‘нет,’ but beyond that, it's like I'm paddling with floaties in a sea of Cyrillic.

My A1 level means I can confidently order a coffee, but ask me for directions and I'll probably guide you to Siberia!

Learning Russian is my personal linguistic EverestI'm at base camp, armed with nothing but a pocket dictionary and dreams of one day understanding a full sentence on the metro.

What do you like about Russian food?

As someone from a spice-loving nation, Russian cuisine initially felt like a bland adventure in Boredville. But surprise! I discovered that borscht can be a party in a bowl, and pelmeni are like little treasure chests of flavour.

Sure, I still secretly sprinkle chili on everything when no one's looking, but hey, who knew sour cream could be a spice substitute?

What do you like to do in your spare time?

— Despite my burning desire to dive into extracurricular adventures, the demanding academic whirlpool swept me away. Alas, my days were filled with books and deadlines, leaving little room for clubs or activities beyond study halls.

In my spare time, I enjoy staying active. I regularly hit the gym to keep fit and relieve stress. I also love playing sports, which offers both exercise and social interaction. These activities help me maintain a healthy work-life balance and provide a fun way to unwind.

What’s the most valuable lesson you learned from HSE University?

I learned the value of a global perspective and critical thinking at HSE University. It helped me become adaptive, versatile, and mindful of the value of working across cultural boundaries, thereby readying me for life in the fast-paced, globalised world outside of academia.

What advice would you like to share with future HSE students? 

Embrace the challenges ahead with enthusiasm.

HSE offers a strong foundation for advanced studies and research.

Stay curious, push your boundaries, and appreciate the diverse, international environment

The skills you'll gain here are essential for academic and professional success. Learning is a journey, so enjoy each moment. Your time at HSE will shape your future in remarkable ways.

See also:

‘HSE University Was My First Choice’

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‘I See that Senior Students and HSE University Staff Are the Kind of People You Can Rely on’

How do I find my way between numerous HSE campuses? How will I survive if I don’t speak any Russian? What is a polite way of addressing my professors? These are only a few of the questions international students have when they come to study at HSE University. At the beginning of the new academic year, HSE University is running a series of Orientation Sessions for new international students to address these questions and help them settle into their life in Moscow.