How to enter data science after a Ph.D.?
It's no easy task planning out your life. More often than not, life loves to turn our plans upon their heads. Meaning career planning is nothing but a messy art piece.
And often, it feels like your options are stuffed inside one small, black box. One that's bound to make you feel claustrophobic. But here's the thing: just because you finished your Ph.D. doesn't mean you need to search for the top job in your selected field and become a genius in it.
One job people often overlook data science. What's that, you ask? And how can I, with my Ph.D., become a part of that world? Keep scrolling!
First- What Does Data Science Mean?
If you're diving headfirst into something, you must clear out the basics first. Let's first talk about what data science means.
The word 'data science' means combining domain expertise, programming skills, and knowledge in selected subjects. While this is a vast world with a million different ideas, one thing in common is the knowledge of programming language and codes.
An Easy Guide To Entering Data Science From PhD
When it comes to leaving one chapter of your life to entering a brand new one, adjusting isn't exactly the easiest thing. But it becomes harder if you have no clue what you should be doing.
To help you smoothly enter data science, we've added easy-to-follow steps. Ready? Let's get started then!
1. Act Like You Want To Become A Part Of That World
We've all heard this, 'if you want something, act like it.' And we're here to tell you that it's pretty much the same case here.
When you sit behind the desk to take interviews, you'll find at least a good chunk of interviewees have all the academic qualifications your company needs. But candidate efforts are what makes them stand out.
So, if you want that job, show that you're actively trying to become part of their team.
2. Use Your Thesis To Your Benefit
You have a Ph.D., which means you've analyzed more studies than you care to mention. Moreover, it means you're spectacular at giving presentations, summarizing, and carrying out open discussions. All of which are essential when it comes to being a data scientist.
An excellent way to expedite the employer's interest in your resume draw parallels between your thesis and the job you're applying for.
3. Practice All The Necessary Skills
If you really want to become a data scientist, you need to keep on practicing all the necessary skills. This includes:
- Studying algorithms and data structures
- Learning recursive programming
- Reviewing statistics
- Learning how to calculate expected values in combinatorics problems
- Working with SQL
- Coding with Python or R and then eventually moving onto harder codes
4. Talk To Other Data Scientists
We know this sounds like an off-hand tip and a hassle but, trust us, talking to other data scientists can be a great help.
Ask them what they do, how they think, and take the advice they give seriously. Reaching out to an array of different data scientists allows you to uncover the world of data science and figure out whether it's for you or not.
5. Find The Role That Fits Your Skills And Needs
Finally, working means finding a company and role that fits you best. Sit down and note down what your domain is and what you need from your company.
Once you've drawn up the balance that works best for you, it'll be a whole lot easier to start applying.
