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Meet Man Ho Cheung, whose career path took a significant turn during the COVID-19 pandemic. Having built a career in the aviation industry, he found himself at a crossroads when the industry faced massive disruptions. It was this uncertainty that led him to explore new opportunities in data science—a field that would soon become their passion. Here’s their inspiring story of adaptation and growth.
What sparked your interest in data science, and how did you begin your learning journey?
During COVID, the aviation industry’s future looked uncertain, and I realized I needed to adapt. That’s when I started looking into data science. I knew that data-driven decisions were becoming increasingly important across industries, and I wanted to explore how I could use these skills to transition into a more resilient career. I began my journey by taking various online courses, which eventually led me to Dataquest.
Before you found Dataquest, what challenges did you face while learning data science?
I tried several online courses, but most of them didn’t provide the hands-on experience I needed. The content felt fragmented, and I found it difficult to apply what I had learned. I also struggled to find a platform that could guide me through a structured learning path.
Why did you choose Dataquest as your go-to learning platform?
While searching for more online resources, I came across Dataquest, and it stood out because of its project-based, hands-on approach. I wanted something more interactive, and the way Dataquest structured its learning paths, without relying on video courses, was exactly what I needed. It kept me engaged and ensured I was applying concepts in real-time.
What’s one thing about Dataquest that made the biggest difference for you?
The code-along exercises were well-constructed and highly practical. They allowed me to not only learn new concepts but also to see how they applied in real-world scenarios. This active learning approach was a game-changer for me and built my confidence as a data scientist.
Was there a specific course that helped you take a big step in your career?
The Data Scientist Path has been incredibly valuable. It provided a comprehensive curriculum that covered everything I needed to know, from data cleaning to machine learning. This learning path helped me develop a solid foundation in data science and gave me the tools I needed to confidently transition into this new career.
How did working on projects help you apply what you were learning in a real-world setting?
Working on projects gave me the opportunity to apply my skills in meaningful ways. The Medical Cost Prediction project, in particular, was an eye-opener. It allowed me to take theoretical knowledge and put it into practice, reinforcing my skills and building my confidence.
What advice would you give to others looking to transition into data science?
It’s tempting to rush through a course just to get a certification, but the real value comes from taking the time to truly understand the material. Consistency is key—put in the effort to practice and apply what you’re learning. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes; it’s all part of the learning process.