A career transition during a global pandemic may seem like an impossible task, but putting in the right efforts can help you achieve your goals. Here is Runav’s journey with Great Learning’s PGP Data Science and Engineering course.
Why did you decide to upskill?
It was the final year of my MBA where I was introduced to this big world of Data Science by one of our faculties. Being a marketing graduate, I find studies related to product sales, consumer behaviour, and advertising interesting. I wanted to get into Business Analytics related roles but no employer was ready to accept my application due to lack of skills. I took up a job with a leading internet company for a corporate sales role. As said by Jim Rohn, “If you are not willing to risk the unusual, you will have to settle for the ordinary”. After a short period, I finally found the right place to transition my career and quit my job to enrol in the PGP DSE program by Great Learning in Mumbai.
How was your journey with Great Learning?
Things began to change and new ways to gain knowledge opened up. This was very exciting compared to the exhaustive routine in my previous job. I am thankful to some of the best faculties starting from Sayan Dey Sir, Mukul Chauhan Sir, Aniruddha Kalbande Sir, Y L Prasad Sir, and Pushkar Shah Sir because of whom I am equipped with the skills required in this advanced world of Data Science.
How was your experience with the placements team?
Finally, after the completion of the program placements, I made a mistake! Yes, in the excitement to get placed as early as possible, I was unable to concentrate on brushing up my technical skills. I went through multiple processes but was rejected in some round or the other. My batch-mates got placed one after the other and that was a frustrating phase of my journey. Deep down I didn’t want to settle for a mediocre company. I self-analysed and started improving myself, like participating in hackathons, practising Python, and SQL where I am thankful to Varsha, our career preparation Manager who was there to help me throughout. After all this hustle, I may not know the exact way to get selected but I surely know 100 ways to get rejected! Finally, this underdog ended up with his dream company Nielsen as Executive– Data Science. This was life-changing and I thank Vikas Sir and Vikalp Sir from Corporate Engagement who made it possible during the tough situation the world is facing due to COVID-19.
