As a final-year B.Tech student from a tier-3 college, I’ve invested countless hours in learning data science, machine learning, and related skills. I’ve built projects, studied statistics, Python, SQL, ML models, and even explored GenAI. But when it comes to campus placements, I’m facing a harsh reality: almost no companies are coming for Data Science roles.
Most recruiters are only hiring for developer roles like Java, full stack, testing, and so on. I’m not alone in this struggle. Getting a Data Scientist role as a fresher off-campus is extremely tough, especially since most companies prefer candidates with prior experience.
So, what’s next? Here are some suggestions I’ve gathered from people who’ve faced similar challenges:
## Build a strong portfolio
Create projects that showcase your data science skills. Share them on platforms like GitHub or Kaggle to demonstrate your abilities.
## Network and attend industry events
Attend conferences, meetups, and webinars to connect with professionals in the field. You never know who might be looking for a talented data scientist.
## Consider internships or freelance work
Gain experience by taking on internships or freelance projects. This will not only build your portfolio but also give you a taste of what it’s like to work on real-world data science projects.
## Look beyond tier-1 companies
While it’s great to aim for top-tier companies, don’t be discouraged if you don’t get in. Look for startups, medium-sized companies, or even non-profits that may have data science openings.
## Stay up-to-date with industry trends
Keep learning and stay current with the latest developments in data science. This will show potential employers that you’re proactive and committed to your craft.
## Don’t give up
It’s tough, but persistence is key. Don’t get discouraged by rejections or setbacks. Keep applying, learning, and growing, and eventually, you’ll land a data science role that’s right for you.
I hope these suggestions help fellow tier-3 college students who are struggling to find data science opportunities. Remember, it’s not impossible – it just takes a bit more effort and creativity.
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*Further reading: Data Science Jobs: A Beginner’s Guide*