Table of Contents
A bright career does not mean the life of the rich and famous, but rather the successful implementation of one’s skills, talents, and potential in accordance with the wishes and needs of society. In this article, we will talk about foolproof ways that you can use to build a career in Data Science. The data science sector is booming these days, and you can get in on the action if you’re willing to put in the hard work. Whether you’re just starting out or have years of experience in this field, this article will show you how to make a bright career in data science. You’ll learn all the tricks of the trade and everything else you need to know about succeeding in this competitive field from world-class mentors and instructors who’ve started their own companies or built successful careers in data science. Data science has become one of the most sought-after professions in today’s knowledge economy. It’s a career that can lead to exciting opportunities and great earning potential, which is why students are flocking to it in droves.
1) Optimize Your CV
If you’re looking for opportunities outside of academia, it’s essential that you polish your CV so that it stands out from all of your peers. It should be no longer than two pages and include a skills & abilities section and any publications or information about research groups you were part of. The best strategy is to talk with alumni, who may be willing to give you feedback on your current resume. Don’t forget: that networking is critical when it comes to seeking out new opportunities outside of academics, so don’t hesitate to reach out by email or attend meetups/networking events!
To know more about data science in the Entri app
2) Learn SQL
SQL is one of several common programming languages used by data scientists. It is used for creating, storing, and querying data stored in databases. A data scientist that knows SQL can pull information from multiple sources—such as raw text, images, and data tables—which reduces redundancies and costs. Learning SQL will not only give you an advantage when it comes to your chosen field; it may also help you land a job or internship. In fact, many employers ask applicants to complete SQL queries as part of their interview process. Check out Coursera’s free SQL Fundamentals course if you are interested in learning more about SQL and becoming proficient at it! If you don’t want to go through all of that work, simply familiarize yourself with how SQL works on a basic level so you have some idea of what recruiters might be looking for. The best way to do that is by trying some sample queries online or practicing with a tutorial like our Getting Started with SQL:
3) Explore Python
If you’re serious about working with data, Python is an excellent programming language to learn. It’s especially useful for creating analyses and visualizations. Just like learning any new skill, mastering it takes practice, so don’t be surprised if it takes more than a couple of weeks before you feel confident with Python basics. Although there are many resources out there that will help teach you what you need to know, here are two that we highly recommend: Introduction to Computer Science Using Python by MIT OpenCourseWare, and(1)and(2): If you’re serious about working with data, Python is an excellent programming language to learn. It’s especially useful for creating analyses and visualizations. Just like learning any new skill, mastering it takes practice, so don’t be surprised if it takes more than a couple of weeks before you feel confident with Python basics.
4) Think Like a Statistician
What data scientists do is similar to what statisticians do, but not quite. A statistician studies data, yes, but not all of them know how to analyze and organize it for business purposes. That’s where data scientists come in: They are responsible for crunching numbers into actionable information that can be used by marketers, advertisers, and others with stakes in how products are promoted and sold. The best way to prepare yourself for a career as a data scientist is to study statistics or mathematics at an advanced level. You should also take courses in computer science and learn how to program using Python or R, which are popular languages among data scientists. If you already have an undergraduate degree in math or statistics, consider getting a master’s degree from one of many programs offering specializations in data science.
5) Stay Organized
All of us have those moments when we’re suddenly struck with an idea that we think would be great to implement, but before we get around to doing anything about it, something else comes up and we put it off. One way you can try and prevent yourself from getting stuck with tons of good ideas is by always carrying around a notebook. Every time you get an idea that you’d like to try out later on, jot it down on paper so that you won’t forget. Even better, find one place where all your ideas are recorded—your smartphone or tablet (or even your computer), so that no matter where you are, no matter what situation you’re in, nothing will slip away from your memory forever. This goes without saying, but remember: not everything has to be saved for future use. If you come across an idea that isn’t worth pursuing, let it go and don’t dwell on it. Your mental energy is too precious to waste! Remember, there are plenty more fish in the sea. As far as organizing goes, start using productivity apps to help keep you on track.
6) Apply Often
Of course, being qualified is an important part of getting that dream job, but there are other things you can do. One important tactic for getting your foot in any company’s door is applying often. Send out multiple applications for each job you think you might be interested in; that way if one application doesn’t pan out, you still have plenty of others. This will not only increase your odds of hearing back from at least one company; it will also help prevent you from becoming burned out after sending too many applications to one place. And if you don’t hear back from any companies within a month or two, apply again! After all, some jobs get hundreds of applicants and hiring managers may need time to go through them all. The more applications you send out, the better your chances are of landing an interview—and hopefully that dream job! In addition to submitting applications frequently, another great way to land a position is by building relationships with people who work for the company already. If you know someone who works there, ask him or her about their experience working at that organization. Find out what they like about their job and how they got hired in order to get an idea of what employers are looking for when they fill positions.
7) Network Even When It’s Hard
As time goes on, you’ll meet more and more people. It can be easy to focus on those who have helped you professionally, but it’s important not to forget about everyone else. Your network is your net worth, so make sure that your contacts know you’re willing to help them out when they need it—and don’t forget that someday, they might be able to return the favor. Also, if someone wants your help but isn’t explicitly asking for it, still consider offering it: The worst anyone can say is no. And remember that networking doesn’t just mean face-to-face interactions. Social media makes it easier than ever to connect with others, so use those platforms as much as possible. If you aren’t comfortable doing something publicly, start by emailing or texting people instead of commenting on their posts or sending them messages directly. Over time, though, you should aim to become more active online; after all, there are plenty of benefits to being an active participant in social media communities (including professional ones).
8) Add Value Where You Can
There are plenty of online communities focused on data science. Once you’ve reached out and learned about what kind of opportunities are out there, find out if there are any specific places where you can add value. A great example is social media. You could create a Twitter account that highlights new job postings or industry happenings, or curate lists of data science bloggers and news-makers who need followers. This way, whenever someone sees your tweets they know exactly why they should be paying attention to you—because they’re relevant to them! (That being said: be sure not to come off as salesy or desperate.) Then start building up your profile on Twitter, LinkedIn, etc. so people get to know you and think of you when they have an opening. When it comes time for interviews, you’ll already have a lot of practice under your belt! That will really help to stand out from other candidates. And speaking of standing out… Take things slow and earn your reputation honestly. It’ll pay off in spades down the road. Learn How To Code: Programming is a huge part of what data scientists do, whether they’re working in big companies or small startups. So learning how to code gives you a leg up on everyone else who’s trying to break into data science—and it also makes you more valuable to current employers! Not only does knowing how to code give you more flexibility during job searches, but once you land that first gig coding skills will make your coworkers respect and trust you even more than before. So learn Python (it’s easy!), R, Java, C++… whatever language makes sense for your needs.
9) Find Mentors
Mentors can be especially valuable when you’re just starting out, but that doesn’t mean you should pick them haphazardly. Look for people with experience and connections, who can provide meaningful advice based on past personal and professional experiences. Be proactive about reaching out—and remember that mentors aren’t always people. They could be books or classes or programs. If you keep an open mind, mentors will find you, so don’t get too attached to your preferred method of learning! As you build your network, also look for opportunities to give back by helping others. The key is not being afraid of failure, because failure gives you an opportunity to learn what doesn’t work so you can get closer to what does. It’s a Small World: When you’re just starting out in your field, don’t be afraid to reach out and connect with others who share your interests or goals. Whether you meet face-to-face or communicate via social media or email, getting connected will help you find new opportunities and develop relationships that will help advance your career down the road. And remember: there’s no such thing as too many connections. The more places where your name appears (and/or reputation grows), the easier it will be for others to find you when opportunities arise!
To know more about data science in the Entri app
10) Finish Your Degree
Once you’ve finished your undergraduate studies, keep working hard and aim for graduate school if possible. These degrees usually take two years to complete, but they’re worth it: graduates often find themselves with better employment prospects. Another option: look into getting a certification in data science. There are plenty of online options available right now, but we recommend starting with The Open Group’s Certified Business Intelligence Professional certification program . If you’re looking for additional guidance beyond online programs, check out our guide Best Online Courses For Learning Data Science. It includes information about everything from finding free tutorials to paying for premium video content and books that will teach you everything there is to know about data science. No matter which path you choose after graduation, remember: patience is key!