The author shares their journey of becoming a data scientist at Meta, without a stats degree or attending a bootcamp, by working 6 different jobs and making 2 career pivots. They offer advice on how to break into the field and the skills they found most valuable in their career path.
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Introduction
In today’s data-driven world, the demand for data scientists is at an all-time high. However, many people assume that a career in data science requires a background in statistics or a degree from a top bootcamp. As someone who didn’t have either, I never thought I could become a data scientist. But here I am, working as a data scientist at Meta, and I want to share my journey with you.
My Background and Early Career
I graduated from college with a degree in economics and started my career as a financial analyst at a large corporation. I enjoyed working with numbers, but I didn’t feel fulfilled in my role. I wanted to explore other career options, and that’s when I stumbled upon data science. It seemed like the perfect blend of my analytical skills and my interest in technology. However, I had no formal training in statistics, and I couldn’t afford to attend a bootcamp. Despite this, I was determined to break into the field.
My First Job in Data Science
After months of self-study and networking, I landed my first job as a data analyst at a small startup. It was a steep learning curve, but I was eager to prove myself. I spent long hours learning new tools and techniques, and I quickly became the go-to person for data-related tasks. My hard work paid off, and I was promoted to a data scientist within a year.
Pivoting to a New Industry
As a data scientist, I was constantly learning and growing, but I wanted to explore new industries. I took a risk and joined a healthcare company as a data scientist. The transition was challenging, but I was able to apply my skills to solve real-world problems in a completely different field. After a few years, I felt confident in my abilities as a data scientist and wanted to take on a new challenge.
Joining Meta as a Data Scientist
When I saw an opening for a data scientist at Meta, I knew I had to apply. The company’s mission to use data for social good aligned with my personal values, and I was excited about the opportunity to work with a diverse team of talented individuals. Despite not having a stats degree or a bootcamp certification, I was confident in my skills and experiences. After a rigorous interview process, I was offered the job and accepted it without hesitation.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this article has shared the inspiring journey of becoming a data scientist at Meta without a statistics degree or attending a bootcamp. The author’s experience of having 6 different jobs and making 2 career pivots highlights the importance of determination, hard work, and continuous learning in achieving success in the field of data science. This serves as a reminder that anyone can pursue their passion and achieve their goals, regardless of their background or previous experiences.
Crafted using generative AI from insights found on Towards Data Science.
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