From Psychology to Data Analysis: How I started and how would I start again if I could

Introduction

As a former psychology student, I was drawn to the field of data analysis after a semester of learning about quantitative research. However, I initially pursued a career in therapy before realizing it was not the right path for me. I eventually found myself drawn to data analytics and began taking courses to expand my knowledge. In this article, I want to share my journey into data analysis, the lessons I learned, and what I would do differently if I could start again.

My First Touch with Data Analysis

During my psychology studies, I had the opportunity to learn about quantitative research and fundamental statistics. Although I initially pursued a career in therapy, I eventually discovered my interest in data analysis and began taking courses to learn more about it. I started with a Cisco Networking Academy course about Python and Big Data, which taught me some basic concepts but felt rather advanced given my limited prior knowledge.

What I Learned

After 4 months of studying Python and Big Data, I realized that I needed to build a stronger foundation in the basics before moving on to more advanced concepts. I enrolled in the Google Data Analytics certificate course, where I learned how to use Excel, SQL, and Tableau, as well as how to manipulate spreadsheets and clean data. Having some programming knowledge from my Python course made it easier for me to understand SQL.

What Would I Do Differently

If I could go back in time, I would start by taking classes on the basics, such as Excel and SQL. I would also work on making cleaner presentations and avoid learning more advanced concepts until I had a strong foundation. Building a solid foundation is crucial for any career in data analysis, and I wish I had taken this approach from the beginning.

Conclusion: Embrace the Journey

In conclusion, I have learned that starting with the basics is key to success in data analysis. Although I had some missteps along the way, I am grateful for my journey and the lessons it has taught me. For anyone starting their data analysis journey, I encourage you to embrace the learning process and take the time to build a strong foundation before moving on to more advanced concepts. With the right mindset and approach, it is never too late to pursue your passions and make a change in your career path.