Making Waves in Data: Liam Smith’s Story of Growth

Motivation to Apply and Facing the Unknown

“This program was so different from anything I’d learned before,”  he said. “But I had this feeling—from the moment classes started—that I’d made the right choice.”  The hands-on learning and fast-paced environment confirmed it quickly. “We were applying what we learned immediately. I could tell I was going to be challenged to become the best version of myself.”

Getting accepted felt like the start of something big. “I knew I was beginning a journey that would stretch me—and that I’d enjoy every step.”

Growth in the Grind

Each mod brought its own whirlwind of projects and deadlines. “They go fast,” Liam said. “Suddenly you’ve got one week to pull everything together and present your final.”

That pressure was real—but it was also fuel. “Whenever I felt overwhelmed, I reminded myself how far I’d come. I would pour myself into the work, and by the time presentations rolled around, I was proud and excited to share what I’d built.”

That mindset helped him uncover a new strength. “I always had a competitive edge from swimming, but this year I found a new outlet for it—in the classroom.”

Pushing Boundaries with Big Data

One of Liam’s most defining MSBA moments came during Machine Learning class. He chose a massive dataset—10 times larger than anything they’d tackled before.

“My computer practically exploded,”  he laughed. After hitting a wall, he turned to Professor Martin Barron, who introduced him to Notre Dame’s CRC (Center for Research Computing) and its high-powered resources.

“Through trial and error, and with Martin’s help, I processed the data and built a project I still talk about today.”

He also found inspiration in Professor Seth Berry, especially during their final project in Data Wrangling. “I pitched an idea that was way off the beaten path. Seth told me it’d be tough but gave me the framework to solve it. I came back the next day with it done—and I felt like I could take on anything.”

Discovering a New Career Confidence

One of the most powerful takeaways for Liam wasn’t just technical—it was personal. “Now I know: no matter what industry I go into, I can help solve real problems. I’ve got the tools, the mindset, and the support system.”

He’s also become more self-aware as a teammate. “Group work is a huge part of the MSBA experience. I learned how I work best—both independently and with others.”

And beyond the classroom, he’s already applying his skills to passion projects. “I’ve taken what we learned and applied it to real-world topics that interest me. That’s been really exciting.”

The Notre Dame Difference

Liam’s Notre Dame journey didn’t start with grad school. As an undergrad swimmer, he already felt the deep sense of community through dorm life and athletics. But the MSBA program offered a new kind of closeness.

“I watched everyone in our cohort grow—individually and together. It’s a powerful thing to experience.”

One of his most emotional campus moments? Any time the alma mater played. “It brings tears to my eyes. It’s a reminder of how special Notre Dame is.”

Every time he walks around campus, he thinks back to his high school junior year on an official visit. “I knew ND was the place for me. But I had no idea how much I’d grow—in every aspect of my life.”

Advice to Future Students

Looking back, Liam would tell his Day 1 self: “Be open to everything. This year is full of new experiences in and out of the classroom. You’ll have plenty of time to code—but only so much time to make the most of all the other moments.”

And to those considering the program? 

“Jump in. This program doesn’t just teach you analytics—it helps you become the kind of person who’s ready for whatever comes next.”