From Software Engineering to Data Science in 6 Months, Read How Supriya Maradana Made a Successful Career Transition
Software engineer Supriya Maradana felt a strong need to return back into the workforce after a short break from her career. Seeing how rapid the growth was in her industry, she realised her technical skills were quickly becoming outdated and saw the need to upskill. Data science appealed to her immensely.
By undertaking our 6-month Data Science & AI Part-time program and earning her Data Science certification, she was able to successfully upgrade her skills. It is through her hard work, determination, and ongoing support of our career coaching and training team that she is now working with Infosys as a Graduate Data Analyst, progressing in her career and achieving her desired outcomes.
Read about her learning journey and career transition with us here:
Can you describe your career experience before making the change to data science?
“I have done my Masters of Computer Applications, then I worked as a Software Test Analyst for 3 years. I had to stop my career to look after my family. When I felt ready to re-enter the job market, I heard and found out about Data Science. It sounded like the best option for me to upskill and re-start my IT career.”
How did you use your previous career experience to help you prepare for this Data Science & AI Program?
“As I studied Computer Science and had experience as a Software Test Analyst I have some knowledge in writing programming and critical thinking.”
What were your career goals before upskilling to data? How has your outlook changed?
“Before upskilling in Data Science, I was searching to restart my career. I faced a barrier in how to re-enter the job market. Hence, I looked into other options and came across Data Science. I liked it and decided this was the pathway and outlook I wanted for my career.”
Why did you choose to join the Part-Time Program in particular? What appealed to you?
“The part-time program gave me the ability to manage my studies and look after my baby. I was a new mother when I started my studies. That is why I chose the part-time course.”
Tell us about your capstone project! How did you come up with your topic?
“My Capstone Project was based on a ‘Credit Risk Analysis Model’ for Financial Institutions. My husband works within the banking industry, and I always hear words such as credit, default, credit score. I have an interest in knowing what all these words mean and how banks are operating. I decided to base my project around this area, with the hopes of it being helpful to some financial institutions wanting to find defaulters before providing a new loan.”
How did you find the process of completing your final Capstone project during the course? What did it teach you?
“My Trainer Ahmed Fattah and Assistant Trainer Luiz Carneiro helped me to complete my Final Capstone Project during my course. They encouraged me to start my Capstone project as early as possible so I have time to select the topic, gather information, and extract the necessary data. Every week, we had a review of my Capstone project and I updated them on my progress. I stuck with each and every step of the process, and my trainers were always very helpful – providing lots of support to solve my problems whenever I needed it.”
What are some tips you would give someone preparing to present their Capstone project during the program?
“The Capstone Project is so important for every student. The topic must be related to us and we should actually be interested in it. My trainers suggested we start as early as possible. This way, we have the time to choose the topic we like, research and gain knowledge into it and find the relevant data. We should practice our presentation as many times as possible to give ourselves a confidence boost.”
You’re now working with Infosys – Congratulations! How did you get a job in the industry after completing your training and what guidance would you give someone applying for jobs after upskilling?
“Thank you. Before I joined Infosys, I didn’t have experience working with data. That’s the reason why I was searching for jobs that are around the graduate level, entry-level and junior level. Finally, I landed a job with Infosys. I am working as an entry-level Data Analyst.
If anyone has experience already in the Data field, this upskilling program would be a good addition to your profile. It’ll definitely place you in a good position.”
Are you still using your previous skillset as well as your new data skills?
“Yes, I am using my previous skills like SQL. PL/SQL is most important for any field. I am using my new skills like Python, data modelling and dashboard in my role in Infosys.”
How do you compare your career situation now to 6-12 months ago?
“I believe career growth in the data science industry is very high nowadays, and I believe my decision in choosing this industry is a great step in my career.”
Do you have any advice for professionals making a career change into the field of data science?
“If professionals decide to make a career change into the data field, they will be getting into a bright future.”
In your opinion, how did the program change your perspective on what is required to be a modern data professional?
“Critical thinking and asking good questions are the most important elements to becoming a modern data professional. Studying the data in any format and understanding the data is also very important. Understanding the business requirements is needed too.”
Connect with Supriya on LinkedIn here.
If you are interested in up-skilling and transitioning your career to the Data Science field, schedule a consultation with a Data Industry Career Consultant today