Siri Zhan

Zhan’s parents supported her decision to go to college in the United States.

“I wanted to see the world from a different perspective. Living in New York was my American dream. I double majored in finance and marketing at NYU,” she says.

Combining marketing with analytics

Zhan became interested in consumer analytics on the job at Harte Hanks, a Boston-based marketing firm. “My current skills weren’t enough for the field, however. I needed the quantitative and technical tools for modeling.

“Reverting to a student mode after three to four years in the work world would have been hard for me. So I began doing research. A lot of schools offer degrees in data science. WashU’s Specialized Masters program explores the intersection of marketing and analytics.”

The power of big data

“The field of big data is always changing, with new insights coming every day. That’s why I love it. I love the unknown power of it. Analysts can always dig deeper and find something new.

“I don’t think anyone knows all the places big data will lead us. But we do know it will allow marketers to make accurate predictions for future trends and behaviors.”

Her favorite course

“My favorite course was Analytics-Driven Brand Management, which presented data as ways to solve business problems. The professor made all his class teachings crystal clear and easy to apply to any marketing challenge.”

Life in St. Louis

“Unlike New York, St. Louis is a really chill city. People here are approachable and friendly. The barista in the coffee shop around the corner from where I live remembers my name, and neighbors say ‘hello’ when I go for a walk.”

Zhan likes to run in nearby Forest Park and to eat at the wide variety of restaurants in The Delmar Loop.