I’m back with the second episode of this new series where I 🎙️ interview Data Scientists at various stages of their careers, sharing their journeys to bring YOU fresh perspectives and insights.
In this episode, I share my conversation with my friend Khouloud El Alami, a Data Scientist at Spotify, where we talk about how she turned an internship into her dream job at Spotify, among other interesting topics.
Disclaimer: The views expressed by Khouloud in this podcast are her own and do not reflect the opinions or positions of Spotify.
I think you’ll really enjoy it :)
Key Takeaways
Here are some key takeaways from my chat with Khouloud:
Breaking into Data Science: "You have to push through your luck." Taking risks, such as relocating to pursue better opportunities, can open doors that might not have been available otherwise. Continuously applying to multiple roles and being persistent in your efforts can lead to unexpected opportunities.
Internship to Full-Time Offer: "I flew to Stockholm to meet my team." Building relationships is key, even during a remote internship. Taking the extra step to meet your team in person can make a big difference in securing a full-time offer.
Navigating Rejections: "You only need one chance to make things happen." Rejection is part of the process, but persistence is what counts. After multiple applications, the right opportunity will eventually come.
Work-Life Balance: "I have the free time to have a life." Finding a company that values work-life balance is crucial. It helps you excel at work while also making space for your personal life.
Networking with Purpose: "You need to reach out persistently, but always with a purpose." When networking, it’s important to focus on building genuine connections and showing interest in the company’s work, rather than simply asking for opportunities. This kind of strategic persistence can open doors.
Soft Skills Matter: "You don't have to be the best." While technical skills are important, it’s often the soft skills—like communication and relationship-building—that help you stand out in a competitive field.
Mentorship: "You learn best practices by surrounding yourself with the right people." It’s not just about who you work with—it’s about finding experienced mentors who can guide you in developing strong professional practices.
Handling Setbacks: "Don't take rejection as an answer." Rejections are just redirections. Stay determined, take calculated risks, and don’t let setbacks define your career.
Resume Tailoring: "I tailored my resume for each offer." Customizing your resume and cover letter for each role can improve your chances. Expressing why the job matters to you can make your application stand out.
AI for Productivity: "ChatGPT helps me with data visualization and troubleshooting." Using AI tools can streamline tasks, from coding to summarizing information. Leverage AI to boost productivity and efficiency.
Thank you for reading! I hope you enjoyed this second episode because there are more coming in the future.
See you next week!
- Andres
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