In this GCI Alumni Interview Series, we feature past participants of the Global Consumer Intelligence program and share their experiences, learning journeys, and career growth after joining GCI.
This article features Paul Allen M. Gonzales, a PhD student in Theoretical Physics at De La Salle University from The Philippines. Through this interview, Paul shares what motivated him to join GCI, the skills and knowledge gained through the program, and how the experience has contributed to his academic and professional journey.
Q1: Please introduce yourself
(In English)
I am Filipino and currently pursuing a PhD in Theoretical Physics at De La Salle University in Manila, Philippines. I am also a licensed Mechanical Engineer and a data science practitioner, with research interests in black hole physics, computational modeling, and artificial intelligence.
(In Tagalog)
Ako ay Pilipino at kasalukuyang kumukuha ng PhD sa Theoretical Physics sa De La Salle University sa Maynila, Pilipinas. Isa rin akong lisensiyadong Mechanical Engineer at data science practitioner, na may interes sa pananaliksik tungkol sa black hole physics, computational modeling, at artificial intelligence.
Q2: What motivated you to join GCI?
(In English)
I joined GCI because I wanted to further improve my skills in data science and artificial intelligence while gaining exposure to different learning, research, and career opportunities. I also wanted to connect with talented individuals from diverse backgrounds and learn from experts in the field.
(In Tagalog)
Sumali ako sa GCI dahil nais kong higit pang mapahusay ang aking mga kasanayan sa data science at artificial intelligence, habang nagkakaroon ng pagkakataong makilala ang iba’t ibang oportunidad sa pag-aaral, pananaliksik, at propesyon. Nais ko rin makipag-ugnayan sa mga mahuhusay na indibidwal mula sa iba’t ibang larangan at matuto mula sa mga eksperto.
Q3: What skills, knowledge, or experiences did you gain through GCI?
(In English)
Through GCI, I strengthened my skills in data science, machine learning, and artificial intelligence through lectures, projects, assessments, and hackathons. I also gained valuable experience in problem-solving, teamwork, and presenting data-driven solutions. Most importantly, I learned from industry experts and connected with talented individuals from diverse backgrounds.
(In Tagalog)
Sa pamamagitan ng GCI, higit kong napahusay ang aking mga kasanayan sa data science, machine learning, at artificial intelligence sa pamamagitan ng mga lecture, proyekto, assessment, at hackathon. Nagkaroon din ako ng mahalagang karanasan sa problem-solving, pakikipagtulungan, at paglalahad ng mga solusyong nakabatay sa datos. Higit sa lahat, natuto ako mula sa mga eksperto sa industriya at nakaugnayan ang mahuhusay na indibidwal mula sa iba’t ibang larangan.
Q4: How has GCI helped you in your academic or professional journey?
(In English)
GCI strengthened my technical foundation in data science and artificial intelligence and helped me apply these skills to real-world problems. It complemented my background in engineering and theoretical physics while expanding my academic, research, and career opportunities. The program also improved my confidence in collaborating with diverse teams and presenting data-driven solutions.
(In Tagalog)
Pinatatag ng GCI ang aking kaalaman sa data science at artificial intelligence at tinulungan akong magamit ang mga kasanayang ito sa paglutas ng mga tunay na suliranin. Naging mahalagang karagdagan ito sa aking background sa engineering at theoretical physics, habang pinalawak ang aking mga oportunidad sa akademya, pananaliksik, at propesyon. Nakatulong din ang programa upang mapalakas ang aking kumpiyansa sa pakikipagtulungan sa iba’t ibang grupo at paglalahad ng mga solusyong nakabatay sa datos.
Q5: What was the most memorable part of your GCI experience?
(In English)
The most memorable part of my GCI experience was being recognized as an Outstanding Student despite balancing the program with my full-time PhD studies and a full-time job. Being selected to participate in the Japan Study Tour made the achievement even more meaningful. It was an extraordinary experience that allowed me to learn from experts, meet talented individuals, and explore new academic and professional opportunities in Japan.
(In Tagalog)
Ang pinakahindi ko malilimutang bahagi ng aking karanasan sa GCI ay ang pagkilala sa akin bilang Outstanding Student sa kabila ng pagsabay ko sa programa, full-time na pag-aaral sa PhD, at full-time na trabaho. Lalo pang naging makabuluhan ang tagumpay na ito nang mapili akong makalahok sa Japan Study Tour. Isa itong pambihirang karanasan na nagbigay sa akin ng pagkakataong matuto mula sa mga eksperto, makilala ang mahuhusay na indibidwal, at tuklasin ang mga bagong oportunidad sa akademya at propesyon sa Japan.
Q6: What would you say to someone considering applying to GCI?
(In English)
I would encourage anyone considering GCI to apply and embrace the opportunity. Even if you have limited experience or a busy schedule, the program can help you develop valuable skills, challenge yourself, and discover new academic and professional opportunities. Stay committed, remain curious, and make the most of every learning experience.
(In Tagalog)
Hinihikayat ko ang sinumang nagbabalak sumali sa GCI na mag-apply at samantalahin ang pagkakataong ito. Kahit limitado pa ang iyong karanasan o abala ang iyong iskedyul, makatutulong ang programa upang mapaunlad ang iyong mga kasanayan, hamunin ang iyong sarili, at makatuklas ng mga bagong oportunidad sa akademya at propesyon. Manatiling determinado, mausisa, at bukas sa bawat pagkakataong matuto.
Thank you, Paul, for sharing your GCI experience with us!
Through the GCI Alumni Interview Series, we hope to highlight the diverse stories of our alumni and show how GCI supports students and professionals in developing practical AI, data science, and business skills for the future.
If you are interested in GCI World Program, please check the details:
Please also read others articles featuring our outstanding students:
https://weblab.t.u-tokyo.ac.jp/en/global_expansion/gciworld_alumni_interview/