Data Dialogues: Navigating the Data Science Landscape [Part 2 of 2]

Link to Part 1 of this Newsletter

Welcome to the Data Science Growth Series hosted by PrepVector! ?? In this series, we help you up-level in your career by bringing the latest insights on data science by industry experts through events, articles, and webinars. I recently had the privilege of speaking with the data science students at my alma mater, University of Cincinnati, where I spoke about my career journey and the essential skills you would need to craft a successful career in the field. Thank You Julie Glassmeyer for the opportunity!

If you are a current student or a recent graduate, this newsletter will provide you answers to some of the commonly asked questions. It will provide insights about the role, essential skills needed for growth, and how you can build an intentional job search strategy. Hope this newsletter will provide valuable insights for early career professionals. So, let's dive into the world of data science!

About the Host:

Manisha Arora is a Data Scientist at Google with 10+ years of experience in driving business impact through data-driven decision-making. She is currently leading ad measurement and experimentation for Ads across Search, YouTube, Shopping, and Display. She works with top Google advertisers to support their marketing and business objectives through data insights, machine learning, and experimentation solutions.

... continued from Part 1

What advice do you have for students as they are searching for a job?

• First and foremost, master the art of intentional networking. This is crucial, particularly for immigrants who may face cultural differences in new environments. Understand what effective networking entails—it's not just about reaching out when you need something; successful networking begins with offering value to others.

• Avoid making requests that burden others, such as saying, "Let me know if there is an open position for me in your company." This approach is almost guaranteed to be ineffective. Instead, invest the effort to simplify the process for your contacts. Ask specific, well-thought-out questions, but remain open to new ideas and suggestions.

• Lastly, don't overlook the power of connecting with university recruiters. When I was job hunting, I was unaware of the role of university recruiting. These professionals are invaluable resources who can guide you through the job-seeking process and are your best point-of-contact for entry level roles.

Are there specific tools or methods you would recommend students familiarize themselves with?

Certainly, mastering tools like Python and SQL is crucial due to their widespread use in data science. However, it's important not to become overly reliant on any single tool, as technology constantly evolves. While proficiency in Python and SQL is valuable, remember that these skills are part of a broader toolkit.

I strongly recommend taking courses in Statistics and Design of Experiments. When I was in college, I didn't realize the importance of these subjects. They are foundational for conducting experiments and causal inference studies, which are integral to my current role. If you have the opportunity to take these courses, do not hesitate.

Machine learning (ML) is also essential. Build a strong foundation in Statistics and ML. A key resource I recommend is the "Introduction to Statistical Learning" (ISLR) book, which I consider my bible. I've read it over ten times and still refer to it occasionally. This book has been invaluable in my interviews and is an excellent starting point for anyone beginning their journey in ML.

What do you think made you successful in your job search?

Of course! Here are a few things I did. Or to better put it - let's say these are the things I would do if I have to go back and repeat the process of job search:

• The ability to articulate my resume clearly was key. When discussing my projects, whether academic or professional, I focused on explaining the data used, the stakeholders involved, the lessons learned, the project's successes, and its challenges. This approach allows potential employers to see the depth and impact of my work.
• Thorough research about the company is crucial. It's easy to become eager in the job search, but understanding the company's background is vital. Know their revenue model, their growth trajectory, their company culture, and their organizational structure. Learn about their growth opportunities and what they could mean for your career. Additionally, stay informed about their current news and connect with alumni who work there. For those on visas, it’s essential to understand the company's policy on visas, as well as other benefits like 401(k) plans and health insurance.

• Furthermore, research their products and how they generate revenue. This knowledge will equip you to have more insightful discussions during your interviews.
• Finally, never hesitate to leverage your network. Reconnect with former colleagues, classmates, and anyone you've worked with in the past. Sometimes, finding the right opportunity is a numbers game—so knock on as many doors as possible.

How does today’s global inflated economy impact the job search process?

The job market has gone through significant changes due to the headwinds we are seeing right now. These are my observations (completely anecdotal):

• Focus on Productivity

There is a lot of focus on increased productivity and efficiency. There is a need to analyze which is the most high impact work and really focus on that, so the 20% work that gets you 80% outputs. We also have to work with fewer resources and a lot of companies have more aggressive targets to meet.

• Budget Cuts

Due to the focus on efficiency, we are seeing budget cuts across the board. Lesser marketing budgets, lesser hiring budgets, lesser travel budgets and more. You can expect a slower growth due to limited promo quota and promo budget cuts. We are seeing companies move jobs to low cost centers within the country and across the globe.

So this is the time to focus on survival rather than growth. Growth should be considered a sweet bonus, until the market improves.

• Fewer sponsorships

Due to the budget cuts we are seeing across the board, there are some companies which are revisiting their visa policies and assessing which roles and higher vs lower in priority for visa sponsorships. Big tech has especially cut down on visas and paused GC filing process. This is a huge shift which can impact people's careers. I would recommend being more intentional about checking visa support offerings of the companies you interview with. Sometimes, it can be a very conscious decision to choose a company that supports visa sponsorships even if that means lower pay.

What strategies should students consider to secure employment in this market?

Here are some strategies to enhance your job search process, taking into account the complexities of a fluctuating global economy:

1. Understand Visa Requirements: For immigrants, it’s crucial to have a clear understanding of your visa conditions, the options available, and how much potential employers are willing to support your visa needs. This knowledge can significantly influence your job search and application strategies.
2. Leverage Alumni Networks: Alumni are typically willing to help new graduates. Since they receive numerous requests, ensure your messages are thoughtful and appreciative. Consider asking specific questions or requesting brief informational interviews to make the interaction mutually beneficial.
3. Skill Development: Focus on refining and expanding your skills. Market conditions are unpredictable, but by enhancing your capabilities, you'll be well-prepared to capitalize on opportunities as they arise. Continuous learning through online courses, workshops, and self-study can keep you competitive. Develop a portfolio that showcases your skills, especially for roles requiring specific technical expertise, such as machine learning projects. If you need guidance, consider enrolling in specialized courses that focus on building relevant portfolios—I offer a course that could be of assistance. Check it out: AI/ML Projects for Data Professionals.
4. Keep your Resume & LinkedIn Updated: Customize your resume for different roles—create a technically oriented version for data science positions and a more generalized one for roles like business or operations analyst. This targeted approach can help your resume stand out in diverse applicant pools. Maintain an up-to-date LinkedIn profile that highlights your latest projects, skills, and professional accomplishments. This platform is often the first place recruiters look, so a polished profile can make a significant impact.
5. Enhance Your Financial Literacy: Understanding financial principles and the broader economic environment is crucial, especially in a volatile economy. This knowledge is not only beneficial for personal financial management but also enhances your understanding of potential employers' business models and stability.

Lastly, don’t forget to enjoy this phase of student life. It is one of those phases you will cherish throughout your life, you are building connections that will stay with you in your ups and downs.

It has been an absolute pleasure to chat with the bright minds of the University of Cincinnati. If you are exploring Data Science roles and need more information, reach out to me.

Check out my upcoming courses below:

• AI-ML Projects for Data Professionals - Next cohort starts May 19. Use code BUILDWITHAI to get 25% off.

Special Offer: If you are a college student or a PrepVector alumni, I have a special 30% discount. Follow the steps in this LinkedIn Post to avail the discount.

• Product Data Science - Next cohort starts early June

You will gain skills in Product Sense, AB Testing, Machine Learning, and more through a series of live coaching sessions, industry mentors, and personalized career coaching sessions.

Book a free consultation if you have any questions about these courses or want to assess which one is a good fit for you based on your career goals!