What A Senior Data Scientist At Newfront Insurance Wishes They Had Known Before Entering The Data Science Industry
Matthew wishes that college would have provided more practical experience with tools like SQL and Python, as well as exposure to data visualization, noting a "disconnect between what you are learning in school versus what you are learning in the real world"; Matthew also emphasizes the importance of self-advocacy, networking, and building a personal brand by actively seeking opportunities to showcase accomplishments and gain visibility, especially in the office.
Technical Skills Gap, SQL and Python Proficiency, Data Visualization Tools, Self-Advocacy, In-Office Networking
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Matthew Slodowitz
Senior Data Scientist
Newfront Insurance
University of Michigan
Mathematics, Data Science, Statistics
Insurance, Technology
Data and Analytics
Greek Life Member
Video Highlights
1. Disconnect between academic learning (R, theoretical programming) and real-world requirements (SQL, Python, data visualization tools).
2. Importance of self-advocacy and networking to showcase your work and capabilities to superiors and executives.
3. Value of in-person presence in the office, especially in post-COVID environments, to gain visibility and access opportunities.
Transcript
What have you learned about this role that you wish someone would've told you before you entered the industry?
I think the biggest thing when entering this role, and it's similar in education, is the disconnect between what you learn in school and what you learn in the real world. When I was in school, I never really had the opportunity to code in SQL or work extensively with Python. It wasn't a main focus; we were doing more theoretical programming and using R instead.
We didn't have the opportunity to work on data science projects like I am now in the real world. I wish I had learned more about SQL and Python in school. I also wish I'd had exposure to the data visualization tools I use every day now. That would have been very helpful to know in college.
Another aspect is networking and advocating for yourself. No matter what company you work at, there's a lot of networking and self-advocacy. When you're in college, looking for a new job, or in your first job, it's crucial to advocate for yourself and your role. You need to show your bosses and superiors that you are capable and doing well.
Many people who want to advance and gain more experience don't realize how much of it involves advocating for yourself. This means building a case to show your accomplishments, ensuring you're in important meetings, and talking to executives to get your name out there. It genuinely makes a difference when people recognize you.
When you start building and presenting projects, people will remember who you are. They might say, "I met [speaker's name] before, and I know he works hard and puts himself out there."
Especially post-COVID, with many companies being remote or hybrid, getting into the office for face time is very important. I tried to do this pre-COVID, and now, I make an effort to be present in the office. There's a lot that happens in the office that you wouldn't see if you were just working remotely.