From data to decisions: Alisa Tarada’s experience
12 August 2026Artificial intelligence, data management and business analytics are changing the way companies interpret information, assess risk and make decisions. For professionals, understanding these tools means not only acquiring new technical skills, but also developing a shared language with those who design and implement data-driven solutions.
This is one of the reasons that led Alisa Tarada, Risk Manager at UniCredit, to choose the Executive Master in Data Management and Business Analytics at Bologna Business School.
Her decision was rooted in the awareness that artificial intelligence is profoundly transforming every sector of the economy and represents one of the most important skills for the future of work.
“I felt that it was the right time to deepen my knowledge and develop practical skills in this field,” Alisa explains.
Before starting the program, she expected to build a solid foundation in data management, business analytics and artificial intelligence technologies through a balance of theory and practical applications.
Her goal was also to better understand how to use data and AI tools to support business decisions and contribute to the development of innovative solutions in professional contexts.
Understanding AI to collaborate with technical teams
In her role as Risk Manager, Alisa considers a broad understanding of the principles of artificial intelligence particularly valuable.
This foundation makes it possible to contribute more effectively to projects focused on the development of AI systems and to engage more confidently with professionals who have specialised technical expertise.
“It is important to acquire basic Python skills and understand the fundamental principles of neural networks and machine learning,” she explains.
The aim is not necessarily to become a programming or research specialist, but to build a sufficiently solid foundation to understand how applications work, assess their potential and contribute to their development.
The ability to collaborate with technical teams, even without being a research expert in the field, is one of the most practical outcomes of the program.
In a context shaped by the rapid evolution of large language models, this preparation also includes knowledge of the concepts behind models such as GPT and Gemini.
According to Alisa, it is useful to understand how they work, their main use cases and their limitations. This is essential to avoid a superficial interpretation of the technology and to recognise the situations in which it can make a meaningful contribution.
A foundation for navigating the world of data
Looking back on her experience, Alisa would recommend the Executive Master to professionals who want to acquire a structured foundation in data management, business analytics and artificial intelligence.
At the same time, she emphasises the importance of starting the program with realistic expectations.
“In one year, you do not become a programmer or a data scientist, but the Master offers an excellent opportunity to begin a professional journey in the world of data, even without an advanced technical background.”
The value of the program therefore lies in the opportunity to approach these disciplines progressively, building knowledge and tools that are also useful for those coming from business functions that are not strictly technology-focused.
This reflects the increasingly cross-functional role of data within organisations. The ability to interpret data, understand the models that process it and assess their applications is no longer limited to data scientists or developers.
It is a capability that involves managers, professionals and decision-makers across different areas, from finance and marketing to operations and risk management.
Balancing study and professional life
For Alisa, another important aspect is the organisation of the program, designed for participants who continue working while completing the Master.
“I believe it is a particularly suitable choice for working professionals, thanks to the evening class schedule, which makes it possible to balance study and professional responsibilities.”
Flexibility does not, however, remove the commitment required. Some courses can be demanding and require time, consistency and energy.
For this reason, Alisa advises approaching the program with determination and with the awareness that the quality of the experience also depends on the willingness to challenge oneself.
“Some courses can be demanding, but the investment is rewarded by the skills acquired and the new professional opportunities the Master can offer.”
Turning knowledge into decision-making capability
Alisa’s experience shows how a program focused on data and artificial intelligence can generate value beyond purely technical roles.
Understanding the principles of machine learning, neural networks and language models means being able to participate in the discussions that accompany the development of new systems, assess their opportunities and limitations with greater awareness and contribute to business decisions.
From this perspective, the interdisciplinary approach connects technology, management and professional experience, helping participants interpret digital transformation from complementary viewpoints.
Alisa’s journey also highlights an essential point: education does not conclude a learning process, but marks its beginning. It provides the foundations, tools and reference points needed to navigate a constantly evolving field and continue developing skills over time.
For professionals working with data, decisions and risk, understanding artificial intelligence above all means acquiring a new way of interpreting complexity: knowing which questions to ask, which limitations to consider and how to turn technological knowledge into a practical contribution to the organisation.
