Why a Bootcamp Won’t Make You a Data Scientist
Nov 14, 2022
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Most of you have probably asked someone if enrolling in a Data Science BootCamp is worth it.
The problem is that there is no simple answer to this question. We're all unique, with our own set of abilities and aspirations. There is, however, one constant: boot camps have a habit of promising too much to students who lack a strong technical background. This makes sense on paper and can be quite persuasive in various scenarios. However, data science isn't a good fit for a slapdash method of educating new hires.
This is why.
There is a lot of Competition
Part-time study for six months won't turn you into a data scientist if you have little to no programming, data, or statistics background. However, if you put in the time and effort, you could acquire some interesting knowledge and possibly find work as an entry-level data analyst. Jobs in data science are typically associated with a high level of seniority or expertise. There isn't enough time in such a brief course to acquire the necessary mastery of the rudimentary skills.
You will be competing against candidates with much more impressive qualifications, even if you have completed a data science immersive Bootcamp.
Career History
Those with a strong quantitative background in college tend to do well in coding bootcamps. This is because they can code passably, are familiar with basic statistics, and have experience analyzing and interpreting data.
Data science bootcamps typically consist of a few weeks of instruction, hands-on experience with various popular data science technologies, and some coding instruction. As a result, people from these backgrounds are the most likely to succeed after completing a data science bootcamp and finding full-time employment in the field.
The Storyline is Misleading
There is a lot of misleading information about data science's accessibility, which is a problem in itself. Marketing appears to be such that almost anyone can become an expert if they enroll in the best data science bootcamp. It's also implied that you don't have to put in much effort to rise to the top of the data science profession.
Well, the truth is, the vast majority had to put a lot of time and effort into getting their education, working in various jobs, and honing their skills before they could call themselves Data Scientists. This highlights the fact that those who already possess a strong foundation in the necessary skills and knowledge will benefit the most from a bootcamp.
Knowledge of Software Engineering
Data scientists with strong coding skills are in high demand. However, a data science bootcamp could be a good way for a software engineer to gain experience in data science, especially if they prefer a more structured curriculum, as they will provide the software engineer with the statistics and machine learning experience they likely lack.
Experts in Analyzing Data
Your data abilities can be greatly improved by attending a boot camp. Depending on your current skill level, that could be a fantastic way to advance your career to a more senior data analyst position or provide data science services. However, your current position has a significant impact on whether or not a data science boot camp will be beneficial to you.
It may not apply to your current position if there are no chances to apply machine learning. However, attending a part-time bootcamp can be extremely helpful if you see opportunities to use data science skills in your current role but are currently unable to do so due to your own lack of knowledge and experience.
Are Data Science Bootcamps Worth It?
The solution is to thoroughly evaluate your current skill set to determine if there are alternative ways to acquire data science-like experience without enrolling in a formal course.
Many different data science tools are available, and boot camps and other part-time programs are a great way to get acquainted with them. They won't make you an expert, and they won't change your life either.
A data science bootcamp may be an excellent way to brush up on your skills and knowledge even if you already hold a Master's degree. On the other hand, if a boot camp is your only credential in your field, your resume won't stand out from the crowd. So choose wisely!
Author Bio:
Amisha Chauhan, Data-Nectar is a Business Associate and Digital marketing manager at Data-Nectar, which is Data Analytics and Consulting services company, helps our clients to optimize the use of data assets to make profitable, well-informed, faster, and proactive business decisions - be it long-term, short-term or strategic.