Merging, sorting, comparing tables to show the connections that nobody has been making. Cross-linking is one of the aspects of Data Science that I am most looking forward to developing.
About a year ago I decided that I wanted to make the shift from Web Development and Technical Support to a career in Database Administration. I felt like it would be a better fit for the analytical part of my brain, and was something I enjoyed. As soon as I made the decision it felt like I was making a move in the right direction. In my development career I had plenty of experience working with and creating/maintaining databases; it didn’t seem like an insurmountable hurdle to make the switch.
I have Renee Teate to thank for shattering that goal and sending me spiraling down an alternate path.
One day this spring I discovered the Becoming A Data Scientist Podcast. From the first episode I was hooked; somewhere around episode 3 or 4 (that afternoon) I was researching Data Science degrees. I loved that the interviewees on the show all had diverse backgrounds and paths that led them into the field of Data Science. This was the field that I didn’t realize I’d been waiting to discover. It’s exhilarating to finally figure out what you want to do when you grow up.
That’s not to say that I am without apprehension. I know that the journey won’t be without its challenges. To start with I’m relearning math that I haven’t used in over twenty years. And that’s just in preparation to learn new math. I’m also pursuing my B.A. in Computer Science while working full time. My goal with this is to formalize and expand my current background while also picking up math and statistics focused courses in preparation for my deep dive into Data Science.
And so I have to send out a huge thank you to Renee. For all the upcoming late nights and weekends spent in front of a book or a screen, for countless impending frustrations, for the days I know are coming when it will feel too overwhelming, but most of all for introducing me to this world and showing me that there’s no ONE path; people from all backgrounds can find their way.