I still remember the feeling of hopelessness that consumed me after graduating with a degree in Data Science from the University of Illinois Chicago. Despite having a concentration in Business Analytics, I felt underqualified and unsure of my future.
I had switched from a pre-med biochem major to Data Science in my junior year, and it felt like I was playing catch-up with my peers. I had limited experience with the tougher courses and struggled to get internships. Seeing my friends post about their amazing internship opportunities on LinkedIn made me feel like I wasn’t good enough.
But I tried to stay positive and focus on my goal of getting my degree. I kept telling myself that once I had my degree, all my struggles would be worth it. Fast forward to today, and I’ve been consistently applying to jobs in data science and related fields for the past year, but I still feel stuck.
It’s tough not to feel discouraged when the job market is tough, but I know I’m qualified. I know I have the skills and knowledge to succeed. So, what’s holding me back?
Looking back, I realize that I might have been too hard on myself. Switching majors and cramming classes in my final two semesters was tough, but I did it. I graduated on time, and that’s an achievement in itself.
So, what can I do differently? Instead of focusing on what I lack, I’m going to focus on what I can do. I’ll keep applying, networking, and learning. I’ll reach out to people in my industry and ask for advice. I’ll take online courses to improve my skills and stay up-to-date with the latest trends.
If you’re feeling hopeless like I did, I want you to know that you’re not alone. We all feel like we’re not good enough sometimes, but it’s what we do next that matters. Let’s focus on our strengths, learn from our weaknesses, and keep moving forward.
—
*Further reading: [Job search strategies for data science graduates](https://www.datacamp.com/community/blog/job-search-strategies-for-data-science-graduates)*