From Psychology to Analytics: In Search of Why
Pin Hsu’s academic and professional journey exemplifies the power of continuous learning in today’s dynamic business landscape.
In today’s ever-evolving business landscape, the power of continuous learning cannot be overstated. For Pin Hsu, this ethos has been the driving force behind a career that seamlessly blends psychology, management, and advanced analytics. His journey — beginning with a B.S. in psychology, advancing through an M.S. in management and an MBA, and culminating in a Master of Science in Analytics from Georgia Tech — is a testament to the transformative power of lifelong learning and its profound impact on both personal and professional development.
Building a Foundation in Understanding Human Behavior
Hsu’s professional journey began with a fascination for human behavior. After earning a Bachelor of Science in Psychology, he sought to answer a core question: Why do people do things a certain way, and how can we help them do it better? After college, he translated his academic insights into the business world, working in operations for nearly a decade. Yet, the puzzle of consumer decision-making remained incomplete.
“I applied my psychology background to business operations,” Hsu recalls. “But I wanted to gain a deeper understanding of consumer behavior. That experience led me to pursue a graduate degree in management and an MBA to understand decision making from a financial perspective.” While his MBA provided a framework for understanding business strategy, Hsu felt there was still a missing piece: the ability to harness data to illuminate patterns and predict outcomes.
Bridging Gaps with Georgia Tech’s OMS Analytics
In his quest for deeper insights, Hsu turned to Georgia Tech’s Online Master of Science in Analytics (OMS Analytics). “I thought, okay, there are thoughts and opinions, but what does the data tell you? I wanted to better understand the tools and methodologies to find the best ‘crystal ball’ to predict behavior,” he explains. The program’s rigor and flexibility proved to be the perfect match.
As someone with a non-technical background, Hsu was initially intimidated. “The program really challenged me to learn how to code and think technically,” he shares. “It was exciting to be among a brilliant cohort and learn from their expertise. For those on a similar journey, I think my experience demonstrates what’s possible and the opportunities this program provides.”
The online format also offered unexpected benefits. “The interaction with my cohort, the TAs, and the staff was fantastic. Despite being an online program, the level of connection and collaboration was unparalleled,” Hsu says.
Transforming Knowledge into Impact
Graduating in 2022, Hsu’s OMS Analytics degree opened new doors. He transitioned into his current role as associate director of Global Demand Planning at Kimberly-Clark, a position he attributes directly to his Georgia Tech education. “Having a master’s from Georgia Tech definitely impacted my career opportunities,” he notes. “The rigor of the education and reputation of the school translated into confidence in my technical knowledge.”
In his role, Hsu is a thought leader in developing and refining demand planning processes, systems, and strategies to predict and manage customer demand globally. He credits the OMS Analytics program for equipping him with the skills to bridge business strategy and data-driven decision-making.
“The degree significantly boosted my confidence and knowledge base,” he says. “I can now seamlessly blend high-level business acumen with granular technical knowledge. This has transformed me into a more versatile professional, capable of validating solutions and contributing to tangible outcomes.”
For professionals considering an advanced degree, Hsu’s story serves as a compelling testament to the transformative power of continuous learning. By leveraging the rigorous education and innovative tools provided by Georgia Tech’s OMS Analytics program, Hsu has not only advanced his career but also set the stage for ongoing growth and impact in the dynamic world of data-driven business.
Credits:
Co-authors: Laurel-Ann Dooley & Teresa Daniel
Editor: Teresa Daniel
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