Chris Doris is an IT professional with a product management and governance background who currently works for a major financial services firm. He graduated from Rutgers with a BA in Information Technology and Informatics (ITI) in 2003 and will complete his Master of Information (MI) in January 2021.

The IT job market demands strong technical skills and insight into the social, economic, and organizational impacts of technology. As one of SC&I’s earliest ITI graduates, how well do you believe the program prepared you for success?

The ITI program helped me develop both depth and breadth. Not only did I establish a strong technical foundation, I also grew my understanding for how technology influences our lives across various contexts. Through relevant coursework and hands-on practical training, I gained perspective for a wider range of social, economic, and organizational factors that lead to more successful applications of technology.

What led you to pursue the Master of Information?

I’ve always been curious about the social implications of information systems, particularly in the world of business. A degree in MI seemed a perfect fit. Not only did it follow a natural progression that builds on the foundations of ITI, but it also enriches my understanding of data-backed solutions. Now, having first-hand field experience, I’ve come to appreciate the importance of data for decision-making—and the incredible pace at which these technologies evolve. Pursuing the MI has helped me stay abreast of these data science innovations and how to apply them in the workplace.

What skills are you able to take from the MI courses and apply to your current career?

Growing my data science skills through the MI program has already been a key differentiator in my career. Thanks to a healthy mix of coursework focused on information theory and data science, I’ve learned to apply data for problem solving. I’ve become more analytical in my thinking, while still being grounded in practical applications of technology and information management.

How do you see the MI helping you achieve future goals?

Technology evolves at a rapid pace and society is growing increasingly more reliant on data.  Understanding how to operate in a data-rich environment, base decisions on data, and apply this information across diverse contexts will accelerate the big ideas of tomorrow.

What advice do you have for anyone considering pursuing the MI degree? 

A degree in MI is not just investment in yourself, it’s an investment in your future. You’ll learn skills to be successful in today’s information economy, while also gaining perspective on how to apply them in new and innovative ways. You’ll benefit today and in the long-term.

Photo: Courtesy of Chris Doris, MI ’21, ITI ’03