How to Enter Data Science With Physics Background
When choosing a career option, everything feels 10x times harder and more confusing. You've just completed your physics degree, and now you're surfing through the internet, reading articles about making a career. Plus, you've already asked all your friends and family, everything you can.
What if we told you there was a third, much easier option? You'd jump on it instantly, wouldn't you? Introducing the spectacular option: data science!
Skeptical? Well, sit back and relax! We're here to help you move into data science with your physics background.
What Does Data Science Refer To?
Before diving deep into how you can transition from physics to data science, let's clear out the basic definition. What is data science itself, you ask? Allow us to explain!
Data science means combining different fields of work in statistics and computing. This is done to interrupt an array of different data, mostly for decision-making purposes. Plus, you need to have a basis for programming language.
How Do You Get Into Data Science With A Physics Background
Sure, you know what data science refers to, but do you know how to transition? No? Worry, not! That's exactly what we're going to help you with. Ready? Let's get started.
1. Let's Talk Compatibility
Before you start writing up the 'perfect CV' and practice for your interview, let's talk about how well you can do.
A lot of the time, when you bring up data science, people think 'computer science degree.' But this is because these two things correlate quite easily. To make it easier for you to transition, let's talk about the similarities between these two fields.
- You learn to carefully collect data
- Next, both fields require analyzing the collected data
- You build models and sheets to explain what data you have and predict the future
- Lastly, you present your conclusions to your superiors
2. Don't Be A Jack-Of-All-Trades, Choose Your Domain
It's no secret: physicists are good at experiments and data analysis. But here's the thing, physicists work in all fields included in data science, i.e., electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, data science, mathematics, and somewhat statistics. That, however, does not mean you excel at any of these.
Instead of trying to balance a hundred skills together where you're only moderate at each, choose one skill and work on it.
3. Practice Coding
Now that you've chosen what skill set you're going to showcase; it's time to pay attention to domain knowledge.
In order to excel or simply work as a data scientist, you need to know a little bit about programming. As a beginner, coding can be confusing. So, start with Python or R, both of which are relatively easy, and then later move onto the harder ones.
4. Use Your Skills to Awe Others
Now that you've done both of the above steps, it's time to showcase your skills. Here's a couple of things to keep in mind when entering the world of data science:
- Know your career path
- Practice coding
- Learn programming language
- Practice on different websites and work on some projects
This gives you both the knowledge and skillset you need to step into the world of data science!