Returning from Maternity Leave with a New Purpose: Allison’s Journey into Data Science 

By Mehak Malik

For Allison Bramhall, stepping back into the workplace after maternity leave wasn’t just about resuming her role–it was about reshaping it. Promoted soon after her return as an Associate Manager of Marketing Data Analytics, she found herself in an exciting yet challenging position. Working at a company where Data Scientists played a crucial role in shaping business decisions, she often felt she was missing a key piece of the puzzle.

Her expertise in analytics gave her a strong foundation, but when conversations turned technical, she felt like an observer rather than an active participant. With the encouragement of her boss and the support of her family, she made a decision that would change everything–enrolling in the Data Science and Business Analytics program.

Late Nights, study sessions, and a family that had her back

Taking on a rigorous learning program while managing a demanding job and raising two children was no small feat. Time was limited, and every hour had to be accounted for.

Evenings that could have been spent unwinding with family became study sessions. Weekends were no longer about leisure but about coursework and assignments. Her husband took over many household responsibilities, creating a space where she could focus without distraction. At work, her boss was more than just a mentor–he was an ally, supporting her decision to strengthen her technical skills.

“Being a new mother brought its own set of challenges, and managing my studies alongside my responsibilities was incredibly demanding.”

Learning Python was the missing piece in the puzzle

Despite her strong analytical skills, there was always a gap that held her back–coding. While she understood the concepts, she lacked the technical fluency to contribute at the level she aspired to.

The structured, hands-on approach of the program gave her exactly what she needed. Python, once an intimidating hurdle, soon became a powerful tool. She could now confidently step into technical discussions, understand data models, and contribute to project quality assurance.

“It significantly boosted my proficiency in Python, enabling me to actively participate in technical discussions and contribute to project quality assurance processes.”

This wasn’t just about learning a new skill–it was about gaining the confidence to take her seat at the table.

This wasn’t just a program–it was a career that finally felt like hers

The journey wasn’t easy. Juggling personal responsibilities, navigating unexpected personal losses, and pushing through exhaustion tested her in ways she hadn’t anticipated. But each challenge made the victory even sweeter.

With her newfound skills, she wasn’t just fulfilling her role–she was shaping it. No longer confined to surface-level insights, she could now contribute meaningfully to strategic conversations and major projects.

“The program has opened new avenues for me, making a huge impact on my career. It empowered me to contribute to major projects and strategic decisions at my company.”

If you’re waiting for the right time, this is it

Allison’s journey is proof that there is no perfect time to learn something new. There will always be responsibilities, challenges, and moments of self-doubt. But with determination and the right support system, progress is always possible.

“Handling the program while being a new mother was challenging, but I did it.”

For anyone feeling hesitant, unsure, or overwhelmed–maybe this is your sign. The best time to start might just be now.

About Author:

Mehak Malik is a passionate content writer and marketing professional, specializing in creating engaging brand narratives and content strategies. With a Postgraduate degree in MBA (Marketing) from Christ (Deemed to be) University and a graduation in English Literature from Delhi University, she combines a deep understanding of language with sharp marketing insights. Her love for storytelling and strategic thinking drives her to craft content that resonates with audiences and elevates the brand’s voice. Mehak’s transition from literature to marketing fuels her creative approach, making her a key player in developing impactful content strategies.

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