As an application developer, Ankesh Verma faced some roadblocks in reading multiple data and extracting insights from them. So, to sharpen his skills and gain data science and machine learning mastery he enrolled for the Global Certificate in Data Science (GCD) program at Accredian.
In this interview, let’s see his take on data science and how his learning experience has been at Accredian.
Question 1: Which program & batch are you part of at Accredian & tell us more about your current work profile?
Ankesh: I am a part of the Global Certificate in Data Science program, May 2020 batch. I have seven years of experience. Currently, I am working as an Application Developer where our client requires web based applications as well as scripts to automate their work. The development process involves getting clients’ detailed requirements, handling tools required for building them, and also in building and writing scripts and web pages.
Question 2: Walk us through your career journey & what got you interested in Data Science & Machine Learning?
Ankesh: I started my career back in 2014 as a database administrator and then switched to web development and scripting. When I was into application development I observed that I have a lot of data in my hand but I am unable to extract more insights from them. So I decided to take a step ahead and decided to learn data science and machine learning. I wanted to have data science and machine learning mastery also as this technology and field of study is a rising trend. Data science in itself is an ever-expanding field and it will become necessary in the near future.
Question 3: What all tools and packages in Data Science & Machine Learning have you mastered in your Data Science & AI program at Accredian so far?
Ankesh: I’ve learned Python and its basic packages like NumPy, Pandas, Seaborn and Matplotlib.
Question 4: What were some of the initial challenges when you got started on your Data Science journey and how did you overcome it?
Ankesh: Taking up the Accredian’s course for data science and machine learning mastery has not been easy for me. Initially when I started it was challenging because it’s totally a new area for me and the thought process required for this is very broad. It requires the basic understanding of statistics, mathematics, coding, domain knowledge. As I am already a coder I didn’t find any difficulty in coding but studying statistics was really challenging for me.
Question 5: Who is your favorite faculty at Accredian and what did you learn from him the Most?
Ankesh: It’s difficult to choose a favorite as all the faculties at Accredian are simply superb. But I would mention Suchit as he really inspires, motivates and pushes you to learn something as challenging as data science. He is confident and positive. Lavi is also a great mentor. His method of teaching statistics is commendable because he makes it so easy to understand the concepts. I also like Deepesh as his way of teaching is very unique.
Question 6: What is the goal of Data Science?
Ankesh: I feel a data scientist holds complete data science and machine learning mastery. They are one who not only gives you detailed data insights but also helps organizations in taking decisions which would, in turn, improve their business.
Question 7: In your view, how has Data Science evolved in the last few years?
Ankesh: In the last few years we have seen a prominent rise in machine learning ventures along with the availability of huge amounts of data to drive them. Right now, data science is not just a powerful tool for businesses but an essential and in-demand job in the market. And that’s why we see even beginner analysts and students performing analysis and programming, and creating strategies. Another rising trend, I feel, is the reformation and impact of deep learning on traditional software engineering.
Question 8: What are the current trends in Data Science that you are most excited about?
Ankesh: I am really excited about applications like recommendation engines and automation of repetitive processes.
Question 9: Which are some of the blogs that you follow?
Ankesh: I am following KDnuggets to check the latest news on data science, and of course, the Accredian Blog which is very helpful.
Question 10: What is your advice to anyone wanting to start a career in Data Science?
Ankesh: Be confident that if you are learning something with diligence you’ll be able to master it. All you have to do is put in regular effort.
This was a conversation with one of our GCD students – Ankesh Verma.
Want to read more student interviews, check out Accredian Spotlight.
