Expert advice on how to build a sucessful career in data science

Carol Ajando - Aug 7 - - Dev Community

In today's data-driven world,Data science has become one of the fastest rising and most sought-after field.Data science involves extraction,analysis and interpretation of data to develop valuable insight and inform strategic decisions.Diving into the data science space requires a lot of hard work and dedication.
Here are some of the tips and pre-requisites you need to build a sucessful career in data science.

1.Education
Data science involves a lot of calculations therefore Math is key.
A career in data science is built on a strong mathematical foundation that includes; Linear algebra, matrix theory,calculation,statistics and probability.
While many data scientists are self-taught,strong IT background in fields such as Computer Science, Statistics or Engineering may be required but not necessary.
Many people are making use of online resources which are mostly free such as courses offered on google, IBM,freecodecamp.org,W3 schools etc.

2.Skills
A combination of technical,analytical and soft skills are required in the field of data science.
These skills include;
1.Data visualization: Transforming data and findings into understandable and visually appealing formats using tools like Tableau,PowerBi and libraries in python such as (Matplotlib &seaborn)
2.Programming:
This is a non-negotiable skill in data science.One should be proficient in Python and R languages which are esswntial for data manupulation,statistical analysis and machine learning.
3.Machine Learning and AI:
This includes understanding and implementing machine learning such as Scikit-learn,Tensor flow and keras.
4.Data Wrangling:
This is the ability to handle missing values,outliers,merging datasets indo desired formats for analysis.
Some of the soft skills include:Good communication,Business Acumen and curiosity and open to learning.
These are just but a few of the skills required in the field of data science.

3.Job Searching
This is the secind last steps in building a career in data science and probably one of the steps that would take a longer time depending on luck, network and many more.
Networking can significantly improve your job search and imorove your chances to land a job.This includes connecting with professionals and data scientists as yourself.Tools such as Linkedin have proven to be very sucessful as a networking tool to land jobs and connect.
Customize CV and cover letter according to each application and highlighting relevant skills while also using key-words.
Lastly but most importantly create and document your projects.This helps to highlight your skills to any potential emoloyer.Add a link or attach samples in any Job application that you do.

The future is built on data and the demand for data scientists keeps growing each day.The field is ever-evolving so, keep learning to keep-up with emerging technologies to prevent being obsolete in this field.

Data science is an exiting field ,brace yourself for a fullfilling Journey ahead!

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