Farnam Iranpour Inspires Wittenborg MBA Students with Databricks Insights

06.12.2024

Iranpour Shares Databricks Expertise with Wittenborg MBA Students

On 20 November, Farnam Iranpour, a Wittenborg alumnus and Data Engineer at VVV Texel – the Tourist Office of the island of Texel, returned to his alma mater as a guest lecturer for MBA (Master of Business Administration) students at the Amsterdam study location. As a graduate of Wittenborg’s Data Analytics programme, Iranpour was eager to share his knowledge and experience with the next generation of data professionals.

 Iranpour’s lecture focused on Databricks, a modern data platform used by businesses worldwide to manage and analyse vast datasets. He explained how Databricks is helping companies unlock the value of their data, providing a practical understanding of how such platforms drive business decisions and enhance operational efficiency.

"Databricks is a modern data platform, and many companies are using it nowadays. Knowing how to use it can help students understand how businesses can gain value out of data in real life," Iranpour explained. His insight into the platform offered students a clear view of how emerging technologies are shaping the future of business.

The session provided students with an in-depth look at Databricks and its functionalities, including its ability to work with Python, R, SQL, Apache Spark, and more, with a particular focus on its data visualisation features. Nikita Pahwa, Assistant Professor of Applied Sciences at Wittenborg, described the session as “highly fruitful and insightful.” She noted, “Students engaged actively, asking numerous questions about the job market and career opportunities for data analysts and data scientists in the Netherlands. Farnam drew from his valuable experience in the field to provide practical advice."

One of the key takeaways from the session was Farnam’s emphasis on the importance of building a strong professional portfolio. "The session concluded with Farnam emphasising the significance of GitHub and guiding students on creating a data analytics portfolio to enhance their job prospects," Pahwa added.

Throughout the session, Iranpour encouraged an interactive dialogue, engaging students with questions and prompting discussions on the real-world applications of data analytics. "It was good. I asked them questions about data, and they came up with good answers," he said, highlighting the students’ active participation. One particularly insightful question came from a student who asked how a data analyst might use Databricks in their daily tasks. Iranpour explained that the platform helps data analysts manage large datasets, automate workflows, and gain insights for decision making.

Reflecting on his time at Wittenborg, Iranpour shared that despite the demanding nature of his studies, he was able to build meaningful connections with others who shared his passion for data. "Despite the busy study programme, I was able to meet and connect with like-minded individuals who share my passion for data. It was a pleasant and valuable experience that has influenced my career path," he said.

For students aspiring to enter the field of data analytics, Iranpour offered some important advice: "I suggest learning the core concepts first, then mastering a specific tool. No matter if they want to be a data analyst, data scientist, or data engineer, knowing the concepts is the first and most important step."

The session was well received. Pahwa thanked Iranpour for his efforts and engagement with the students: "His session was very interactive and insightful, and the students enjoyed it."

Dadi Chen, Deputy Head of the School of Business at Wittenborg, also expressed his pride in Farnam’s achievements, saying: "I'm really proud of graduates like Iranpour who have a strong passion for their work and always maintain a positive attitude towards learning. His achievement in his current role is a testament to his dedication and hard work."