Hello, my name is

Marc Touma

Computer Science Graduate
Specializing in Data Analysis

About me

I am a Data Analyst and freelance developer based in Ottawa Ontario, with a passion for learning new skills to expand the breadth of my knowledge.

Learning Goals

As I apply for positions and get a feel for the job market in the software engineering/development & data analysis industry, I keep an eye out for commonly requested skills on job listings. I have a list of skills I want to learn that I keep adding to. One of my goals by the time I graduate is to be profeccient in commonly used technologies in the industry.

At the top of my list are the following skills: Ruby,  Node.js

Currently I am focusing on my courses which are: Systems Programming, Software Architecture & Design, Human Computer Interaction, High Performance Computing, and Modelling & Simulation

Skills

Java
85%
C#
95%
HTML&CSS
85%
PHP
80%
Javascript
80%
Python
70%
SQL
70%

My Experience:

2023 June-Sept

Media Matters

Web Intern

As a dedicated Web Intern at Media Matters, I have had the incredible opportunity to contribute significantly to the company’s web development and design endeavors. My role has been multifaceted, involving various responsibilities that have honed my skills and allowed me to make a positive impact on the organization.

One of my primary tasks has been gathering and refining specifications and requirements, ensuring they align perfectly with the business needs. By doing so, I have been able to develop well-designed, testable, and efficient code, adhering to the best website development practices. Crafting intuitive website layouts and user interfaces using standard HTML/CSS/JS practices has been a rewarding aspect of my journey as a web intern.

Furthermore, I have been entrusted with maintaining, expanding, and scaling the company’s websites, contributing to their ongoing success and growth. My proficiency in design tools like Ps/Ai/Id has enabled me to create captivating visuals for both websites and marketing materials, further enhancing the brand’s online presence.

In addition to my technical expertise, I have also been involved in basic office administrative tasks, showcasing my versatility and commitment to supporting the entire team. Upholding existing programming and style guidelines has been crucial in ensuring consistent website aesthetics and the high quality of code.

A proactive approach has been essential in my role, as I continuously reassess business needs and provide valuable suggestions that meet those requirements. Through the development of new site functionalities and streamlined codebases, I have effectively reduced maintenance time and boosted productivity, contributing to the overall efficiency of the company’s digital and web products.

Moreover, I possess a strong skill set in data analysis, visualization, and storytelling, allowing me to gather, clean, and analyze data in accordance with business needs. This has been instrumental in making informed decisions and driving the company’s growth.

Throughout my journey as a Web Intern at Media Matters, I have diligently created and maintained documentation, procedures, and working instructions for the operations team. This meticulous approach has facilitated seamless operations and streamlined processes within the company.

With a strong commitment to excellence and a passion for web development and design, I take pride in having supported the team at Media Matters and actively contributed to their success.

2023 Jan-Apr

SnackTown GTA

Data Analyst Intern

As a Data Analyst Intern at SnackTown GTA, I had the exciting opportunity to immerse myself in the world of data, unlocking valuable insights that shaped the company’s decision-making processes. My role involved collecting, processing, and analyzing extensive datasets, enabling me to identify hidden trends and patterns that held the potential to drive the company forward.

One of my key contributions was the development and maintenance of sophisticated algorithms, which extracted probabilities from the datasets and leveraged them to run simulations in Java. These simulations proved to be invaluable tools, empowering the company to make data-driven predictions and strategic choices with confidence.

Throughout my internship, I demonstrated a strong aptitude for crafting clear and concise reports that effectively communicated my findings and recommendations to stakeholders. This skill played a pivotal role in bridging the gap between raw data and actionable insights, empowering decision-makers with the information they needed to steer the company in the right direction.

Collaboration was also an essential aspect of my role. I worked closely with stakeholders from different departments, gaining a deep understanding of their unique business needs. By aligning data-driven insights with these specific requirements, I provided impactful solutions that directly supported the company’s overall objectives.

I continuously strived to refine and enhance data models, tools, and processes throughout my internship. My commitment to staying on the cutting edge of data analysis methodologies enabled me to offer recommendations for improvements, ensuring that the company remained at the forefront of leveraging data for success.

My time at SnackTown GTA as a Data Analyst Intern was an enriching experience that allowed me to grow both professionally and personally. I take great pride in the contributions I made during my tenure and look forward to leveraging the skills and knowledge gained to excel further in the dynamic field of data analysis.

2019 Jan- 2022 Dec

Freelance

Web Developer

As a Freelance Web Developer, I developed and maintained multiple websites for clients, showcasing my dedication to creating impactful online presences.

My expertise in implementing responsive design and ensuring cross-browser compatibility allowed me to craft websites that provided a seamless user experience across various devices.

To uphold the highest standards of security and performance, I consistently utilized WordPress best practices, fortifying websites against potential threats and optimizing their speed and efficiency.

Working closely with clients, I gathered their requirements, created detailed project plans, and successfully delivered projects on time and within budget, fostering strong and satisfying client relationships.

Collaborating with design and marketing teams, I ensured that the functionality and aesthetics of the websites aligned perfectly with brand guidelines, leaving a lasting impression on visitors.

In addition to my development work, I also conducted training sessions to empower clients to independently navigate the WordPress dashboard and make basic updates to their websites.

To streamline collaboration and code management, I employed version control systems like Git, allowing smooth teamwork and efficient handling of code changes.

Maintaining detailed technical documentation and providing ongoing support, I ensured that clients’ websites remained up-to-date and well-supported even after project completion.

As a Freelance Web Developer, I take pride in my ability to turn ideas into reality and deliver exceptional web solutions that leave a lasting impact. It’s been a rewarding journey, and I look forward to taking on new challenges and creating even more remarkable digital experiences in the future.

2022 Sept-Dec

Trent University

2022 Sept-Dec

Trent University

2022 Sept-Dec

Trent University

2022 Sept-Dec

Trent University

Courses I've Taken at University

2023 Jan-Apr

Trent University

2023 Jan-Apr

Trent University

2022 Sept-Dec

Trent University

2022 Sept-Dec

Trent University

2022 May-June

Trent University

2022 May -August

Trent University

2023 Jan-Apr

Trent University

2023 Jan-Apr

Trent University

2023 Jan-Apr

Trent University

2022 Sept-Dec

Trent University

2022 Sept-Dec

Trent University

2022 May -August

Trent University

2022 June -August

Trent University

2022 May-June

Trent University

2022 May -August

Trent University

2022 Sept-Dec

Trent University

2022 Sept-Dec

Trent University

2022 Sept-Dec

Trent University

2022 Sept-Dec

Trent University

2022 May -August

Trent University

2022 June -August

Trent University

2021 Sept – Dec

Trent University

Principles of Online Marketing

I learned to:

1) advise an organization on the business benefits of the various types of online marketing alternatives

2) cite case studies of online marketing approaches in various industries

3) understand how to effectively manage and measure various types of online marketing campaigns

4) be familiar with the online demographics and behaviour of various consumers

5) create and assess business cases for the transition from traditional marketing to online marketing business processes for various industries

6) be competent at engaging through social media business marketing platforms

7) understand online privacy as it relates to online marketing.

2021 Sept – Dec

Trent University

Data Visualization

I learned to:

1) describe the relevant data types associated with various research areas

2) describe the characteristics of the datasets associated with various research areas with respect to size and storage requirements

3) Be familiar with visualization techniques and be able to discuss their advantages, disadvantages and computational requirements

4) Be familiar with various ways in which data can be visualized interactively on the web, and critically summarize these techniques

5) interactively visualize heterogeneous data in multiple ways

2021 Sept – Dec

Trent University

Multimedia & Design

I learned:

1) the ability to produce and manipulate images using image editing software

2) a basic understanding of how to use HTML and CSS for constructing a web page

3) how to design user interfaces for the web, desktop and mobile applications using best practices and platform guidelines.

4) to understand discuss and analyse user experience issues in software design

5) a limited understanding of the legal framework in which creative works operate under, both nationally and internationally

7) a minimal knowledge of gameplay and systems design where it is relevant to the broader course goals of discussing how best to present this information

 
2021 Sept – Dec

Trent University

Systems Analysis & Design

The focus of this course is to contextualize systems analysis and design within the new meta of networked interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary relationships, most often encountered in the mutable enterprise .

While a system can be defined as a “way of organizing”, for Systems Thinkers, a system is a “differentiated whole”. Fundamental is appreciation for this level of abstraction, akin to the difference between IT and IS where the differentiated whole is analogous to IS.

To be able to contextualize, navigate, and manipulate the dynamics means that the systems analyst/designer can observe systems, accurately model systems, implement design decisions for change (for example, edge computing), and communicate effectively with all stakeholders. 

This course encourages you to embrace the worldview of the Systems Thinker. Together we will investigate systems analysis and design at the level of the individual by concentrating our attention on systems analysis and design of personal life. Navigating the added complexity of in-person, synchronous and asynchronous learning will enhance your skills and build your capacity as a Systems Thinker.
2021 Sept – Dec

Trent University

Data Structures & Algorithms

I learned to:

1) Understand the key tenets of object-oriented programming.

2) Appreciate the advantages and disadvantages of fundamental linear and non-linear data structures.

3) Design and analyze algorithms which are used to manipulate these data structures.

2022 Jan -April

Trent University

Linear programming

I learned to identify linear programming problems, and solve them using the geometric approach as well as the Simplex method. I also learned the theorems of duality.

2022 Jan -April

Trent University

Discreet Math / structures

When I finish this course I’ll be able to:

1) translate statements given in English into formal logic, and evaluate the truth value of these statements

2) construct short proofs using proof techniques such as direct proof, indirect proof, proof by contradiction and proof by cases

3) properly use basic set theory terminology, prove elementary results involving sets, and recognize properties of functions and relations defined on sets

4) write proofs using mathematical induction

5) recognize and solve recurrence relations, and apply other basic counting principles to enumerate (mathematical) objects

6) understand and apply graph theory terminology to successfully investigate basic structural properties of graphs

2022 Jan -April

Trent University

Software design and modelling

When I finish this course I’ll be able to:

1) understand the fundamentals of the software engineering process lifecycle.

2) realize how to develop software using an object-oriented approach through its principles and design patterns.

3) design software using standard the UML modelling notation and implement it using Java.

2022 Jan -April

Trent University

Computer Organization

When I finish this course I’ll be able to:

1) compare the performance of different computer architectures.

2) understand the instruction set architecture and computer arithmetic algorithms.

3) design control units and datapaths.

4) understand performance enhancing techniques such as pipelining and caches.

5) understand how the concepts of abstraction and modular design facilitate the design process.

6) be prepared for more in depth studies of advanced computer systems

2022 Jan -April

Trent University

DAta structures and algorithms 2

When I finish this course I’ll be able to:

1) Appreciate how more complex data structures efficiently support specific applications such as spell checking and file management.

2) Design, implement, and analyze non-trivial data structures.

3) Understand and apply more advanced analytical techniques.

2021 Jan -April

York University

Fundementals of Data Structures

This course taught me to:

1) Instantiate a range of standard abstract data types (ADT) as data structures.

2) Implement these data structures and associated operations and check that they satisfy the properties of the ADT.

3) Apply best practice software engineering principles in the design of new data structures.

4) Demonstrate the ability to reason about data structures using contracts, assertions, and invariants.

5) Analyse the asymptotic run times of standard operations for a broad range of common data structures.

6) Select the most appropriate data structures for novel applications.

2020 Sept -’21 April

York University

Egypt in the Greek & Roman Mediterranean

In this course I was:

1) Reading and understanding difficult texts.

2) Rewriting these texts and writing about them in your own words.

3) Finding, reading and understanding scholarly research and applying what you have learned to course materials and assignments.

4) Analyzing course materials, and constructing your own arguments about them.

5) Giving class presentations, as well as reflecting and writing about them.

6) Working together in groups to create presentations and performances.

2020 Sept -Dec

York University

iNTRODUCTION TO MICROECONOMICS

This course taught me to:

1) Apply the scientific process to economic phenomena: Ask an economic question, apply the appropriate economic model; understand the predictions of the model; know the strengths and limitations of the model.

2) Analyze and evaluate behavior and outcomes using economic concepts and models: Use economic concepts and models to: predict or explain behavior and outcomes; evaluate choices made by firms, individuals, or groups, and suggest allocations that may help them better achieve their objectives; evaluate the efficiency and equity of economy-wide allocations, and suggest government policies to improve social welfare.

3) Use quantitative approaches in economics: Work with graphical formalizations of economic models and perform graphical manipulations; confront any observed correlation knowing it is not evidence of causation and explain why.

4) Think critically about economic methods and their application: Explain economic models as deliberate simplifications of reality, identify the assumptions and limitations of each model, select and connect economic models to real economic conditions, and think creatively and combine existing economic ideas in original ways.

5) Communicate economic ideas in diverse collaborations: Demonstrate fluency in economic terminology and graphical tools, demonstrate knowledge of major economic institutions and magnitudes of common economic statistics, explain economic reasoning and methods to economists and to non-economists.

2020 June -July

Trent University

Introduction to Probability

I learned about:

1) Counting techniques and combinatorics.

2) Sample spaces, continuous and discrete random variables and events.

3) Probability of an event, some rules of probability, conditional probability.

4) Probability distributions and densities, joint distributions/densities.

5) Expected value and moments.

6) Some special probability distributions and densities.

2022 Jan -April

York University

Introduction to MacroEconomics

THis course taught me to:

1) Apply the scientific process to economic phenomena: Ask an economic question, apply the appropriate economic model; understand the predictions of the model; know the strengths and limitations of the model.

2) Analyze and evaluate behavior and outcomes using economic concepts and models: Use economic concepts and models to: predict or explain behavior and outcomes; evaluate choices made by firms, individuals, or groups, and suggest allocations that may help them better achieve their objectives; evaluate the efficiency and equity of economy-wide allocations, and suggest government policies to improve social welfare.

3) Use quantitative approaches in economics: Work with graphical formalizations of economic models and perform graphical manipulations; confront any observed correlation knowing it is not evidence of causation and explain why.

4) Think critically about economic methods and their application: Explain economic models as deliberate simplifications of reality, identify the assumptions and limitations of each model, select and connect economic models to real economic conditions, and think creatively and combine existing economic ideas in original ways.

5) Communicate economic ideas in diverse collaborations: Demonstrate fluency in economic terminology and graphical tools, demonstrate knowledge of major economic institutions and magnitudes of common economic statistics, explain economic reasoning and methods to economists and to non-economists.

2020 Sept -’21 April

York University

Computers Information and society

I learned about

1) The History of computers and how they came to be invented.

2) The original use casses of the first computers.

3) The evolution of computers and the widespread adoption of them.

4) How computers affect the world, and nearly every industry that exists today.

2020 Sept-Dec

York University

Advanced Object oriented programming

This course taught me to:

1) Implement an API (Application Program Interface).

2) Test the implementation using JUnit.

3) Document the implementation.

4) Design and implement aggregation, composition and inheritance relations.

5) Design for polymorphism and implement it.

6) Implement simple data structures.

7) Design for code reuse by taking advantage of ADT (Abstract Data Type).

8) Design and Implement recursive function.

9) Informally prove the correctness of recursive algorithm.

10) Informally analyze the running time of recursive algorithm.

2020 June -July

Trent University

Computer crime and forensics

This course taught me about:

1) The personal risks involved with computer use.

2) Computer criminals and the methods used to compromise computer systems.

3) The societal risks involved with various online behaviours.

4) The types of malware and the threats that they pose.

5)  How the law applies to computer crime.

6) How to use various computer forensic tools.

2020 May -June

Trent University

Intro to abnormal Psychology

This course taught me to:

1) Describe current paradigms and integrative approaches to abnormal psychology.

2) Describe clinical assessment, classification, and diagnosis of psychopathology.

3) Evaluate how research methods are used in the study of abnormal behavior

4) Identify multicultural, sex, gender, and other cultural issues in understanding abnormal behavior

5) Identify developmental considerations in clinical assessment, classification, and diagnosis of psychopathology.

2020 Jan – April

Trent University

Intro to Information Systems

This course taught me to:

1) appreciate the strategic importance of information systems in an organization.

2) describe how organizations can apply information systems to build business value.

3) define data, information, and knowledge, and explain how business intelligence enhances organizational decision-making.

4) identify various approaches to developing and managing information systems.

5) understand the two principle technologies of networks and databases.

6) Appreciate how the Internet, World Wide Web, and social media have redefined traditional ways of doing business.

7) define e-commerce and understand its benefits and limitations within and between organizations.

8) recognize the importance of information ethics, privacy, and security.

2019 Sept -Dec

Trent University

Calculus

I learned to:

1) be familiar with graph polynomial, rational, exponential and logarithmic functions.

2) compute limits of combinations of polynomial, rational, exponential and logarithmic functions.

3) find the derivatives of combinations of polynomial, rational, exponential and logarithmic functions.

4) sketch graphs using first and second derivative information of functions.

5) use the derivative to solve applied problems in the life sciences and economics involving rate-of-change and optimization.

6) find integrals using basic techniques of integration.

7) use Integration to solve applied problems in the life sciences and economics.

8) find partial derivatives of a function of several variables.

9) use partial derivatives to solve extreme value problems from the life sciences and economics.

2019 Sept -Dec

Trent University

Digital World

I learned to:

1) be familiar with the different types of computers, hardware, software, storage, and networks.

2) practice common computer skills.

3) learn how to use the Google apps spreadsheet.

4) learn how to use applications to compress and encrypt data.

5) learn the phases of the program development lifecycle.

6) be aware of the risks involved with the use of the WWW.

7) learn about different programming languages and their uses.

8) develop a simple application using the Scratch programming language.

2020 Jan – April

Trent University

Intro to Psychology II

This course taught me to:

1) Evaluate the features and limitations of research methods.

2) Describe the measurement and assessment of psychological constructs.

3) Apply key theories in personality/social/developmental psychology to real world behaviour.

4) Understand general theories of emotion, health and coping.

5) Understand the general categories of psychological disorders and the DSM classification system.

6) Elaborate on several major approaches to treatment used in applied psychology.

7) Locate and access peer-reviewed psychology research and identify key information in these articles.

8) Know the issues related to academic integrity for students in psychology.

9) Facilitate the development of my social-scientific reasoning ability.

2020 Jan – April

Trent University

PROG FOR COMPUTING SYSTEMS​

This course taght me to:

1) have a solid grasp of the concepts of object-oriented programming.

2. be familiar with creating programs in C# 3. understand repetition and selection structures.

4) have a solid foundation in the various types of parameter passing mechanisms.

5) understand the concept of an array and how to use them in C#.

6) recognize various searching and sorting techniques.

7) design and implement algorithms to solve small- to medium-sized programming problems.

8) utilize debugging tools provided by the program development software interface.

9) understand classes, objects, constructors, properties, inheritance, overloading, abstraction, and interfaces.

2019 Sept -Dec

Trent University

Linear Algebra

I learned to:

1) solve systems of linear equations using the Gauss-Jordan elimination method.

2) perform matrix calculations and matrix algebra.

3) compute the determinant of a matrix.

4) have an understanding of R” as a vector space.

5) investigate linear transformations on R”.

6) find eigenvalues and eigenvectors for a matrix.

2019 Sept -Dec

Trent University

Intro to Psychology I

I learned to:

1) describe the features and evaluate strengths and limitations of common research methods in psychology.

2) identify key brain areas and explain their relationship to behaviour and psychological phenomena.

3) describe and explain the general function of the senses and how they relate to perception.

4) describe and explain the basic principles of learning.

5) describe and explain the fundamental processes related to cognition.

6) describe and explain different approaches to conceptualizing and understanding intelligence.

7) explain and evaluate the scientific basis of varied states of consciousness. 

8) apply key theories in biological, behavioural, and cognitive. psychology to real world behaviour.

9) read and identify key information in peer-reviewed psychology research articles.

10) know the issues related to academic integrity for students in psychology.

11) further the development of my scientific literacy skills.

2023 June-Sept

Media Matters

Web Intern

As a dedicated Web Intern at Media Matters, I have had the incredible opportunity to contribute significantly to the company’s web development and design endeavors. My role has been multifaceted, involving various responsibilities that have honed my skills and allowed me to make a positive impact on the organization.

One of my primary tasks has been gathering and refining specifications and requirements, ensuring they align perfectly with the business needs. By doing so, I have been able to develop well-designed, testable, and efficient code, adhering to the best website development practices. Crafting intuitive website layouts and user interfaces using standard HTML/CSS/JS practices has been a rewarding aspect of my journey as a web intern.

Furthermore, I have been entrusted with maintaining, expanding, and scaling the company’s websites, contributing to their ongoing success and growth. My proficiency in design tools like Ps/Ai/Id has enabled me to create captivating visuals for both websites and marketing materials, further enhancing the brand’s online presence.

In addition to my technical expertise, I have also been involved in basic office administrative tasks, showcasing my versatility and commitment to supporting the entire team. Upholding existing programming and style guidelines has been crucial in ensuring consistent website aesthetics and the high quality of code.

A proactive approach has been essential in my role, as I continuously reassess business needs and provide valuable suggestions that meet those requirements. Through the development of new site functionalities and streamlined codebases, I have effectively reduced maintenance time and boosted productivity, contributing to the overall efficiency of the company’s digital and web products.

Moreover, I possess a strong skill set in data analysis, visualization, and storytelling, allowing me to gather, clean, and analyze data in accordance with business needs. This has been instrumental in making informed decisions and driving the company’s growth.

Throughout my journey as a Web Intern at Media Matters, I have diligently created and maintained documentation, procedures, and working instructions for the operations team. This meticulous approach has facilitated seamless operations and streamlined processes within the company.

With a strong commitment to excellence and a passion for web development and design, I take pride in having supported the team at Media Matters and actively contributed to their success.

2023 Jan-Apr

SnackTown GTA

Data Analyst Intern

As a Data Analyst Intern at SnackTown GTA, I had the exciting opportunity to immerse myself in the world of data, unlocking valuable insights that shaped the company’s decision-making processes. My role involved collecting, processing, and analyzing extensive datasets, enabling me to identify hidden trends and patterns that held the potential to drive the company forward.

One of my key contributions was the development and maintenance of sophisticated algorithms, which extracted probabilities from the datasets and leveraged them to run simulations in Java. These simulations proved to be invaluable tools, empowering the company to make data-driven predictions and strategic choices with confidence.

Throughout my internship, I demonstrated a strong aptitude for crafting clear and concise reports that effectively communicated my findings and recommendations to stakeholders. This skill played a pivotal role in bridging the gap between raw data and actionable insights, empowering decision-makers with the information they needed to steer the company in the right direction.

Collaboration was also an essential aspect of my role. I worked closely with stakeholders from different departments, gaining a deep understanding of their unique business needs. By aligning data-driven insights with these specific requirements, I provided impactful solutions that directly supported the company’s overall objectives.

I continuously strived to refine and enhance data models, tools, and processes throughout my internship. My commitment to staying on the cutting edge of data analysis methodologies enabled me to offer recommendations for improvements, ensuring that the company remained at the forefront of leveraging data for success.

My time at SnackTown GTA as a Data Analyst Intern was an enriching experience that allowed me to grow both professionally and personally. I take great pride in the contributions I made during my tenure and look forward to leveraging the skills and knowledge gained to excel further in the dynamic field of data analysis.

2019 Jan- 2022 Dec

Freelance

Web Developer

As a Freelance Web Developer, I developed and maintained multiple websites for clients, showcasing my dedication to creating impactful online presences.

My expertise in implementing responsive design and ensuring cross-browser compatibility allowed me to craft websites that provided a seamless user experience across various devices.

To uphold the highest standards of security and performance, I consistently utilized WordPress best practices, fortifying websites against potential threats and optimizing their speed and efficiency.

Working closely with clients, I gathered their requirements, created detailed project plans, and successfully delivered projects on time and within budget, fostering strong and satisfying client relationships.

Collaborating with design and marketing teams, I ensured that the functionality and aesthetics of the websites aligned perfectly with brand guidelines, leaving a lasting impression on visitors.

In addition to my development work, I also conducted training sessions to empower clients to independently navigate the WordPress dashboard and make basic updates to their websites.

To streamline collaboration and code management, I employed version control systems like Git, allowing smooth teamwork and efficient handling of code changes.

Maintaining detailed technical documentation and providing ongoing support, I ensured that clients’ websites remained up-to-date and well-supported even after project completion.

As a Freelance Web Developer, I take pride in my ability to turn ideas into reality and deliver exceptional web solutions that leave a lasting impact. It’s been a rewarding journey, and I look forward to taking on new challenges and creating even more remarkable digital experiences in the future.

2022 Sept-Dec

Trent University

2022 Sept-Dec

Trent University

2022 Sept-Dec

Trent University

2022 Sept-Dec

Trent University