A Week in the Life of a Data Scientist
Station10 had two work experience students join us in June 2023. As part of their placement, we asked them to write a blog about their time with us….
Data Science. The leading new prospect of the vast majority of the world’s markets and industries. As two students from the Latymer school in North London who had just finished our GCSEs, we were eager to do something meaningful during our summer holidays, while also exploring the boundless opportunities that lay ahead. It was clear to us that Data Science would be the perfect starting point for our journey.
Station10 stood out to us as the ideal platform to kickstart our data science careers from the moment we saw it on the school-led work experience website. The company’s commitment to empowering the next generation of data professionals, coupled with its reputation for delivering cutting-edge solutions, made it an obvious choice. We were drawn to Station10’s collaborative culture, where experienced data scientists work hand-in-hand with clients to solve complex problems using data-driven methodologies. It was an environment that promised rich learning opportunities and a chance to work on fascinating projects.
We had the privilege to apply both our existing skills and the ones we were introduced to in real projects, such as constructing and optimising models, including Media Mix Models.
Leona
My journey began with understanding the fundamentals of machine learning algorithms. With the guidance of seasoned professionals, I explored the realms of supervised learning, classification, and model evaluation using confusion matrices and cross-validation. Leveraging the power of Python libraries like scikit-learn, seaborn and Pandas, I gained hands-on experience in manipulating data to develop and tune predictive models. I was also introduced to a variety of interesting concepts such as analytics engineering, data visualisation and optimisation. I not only acquired technical skills but also imbibed the essence of a data-driven culture at Station10. The work experience went beyond technical skills for me. Working in a supportive and collaborative office environment, I learned to embrace challenges, adapt to dynamic situations, and cultivate a mindset of continuous learning. I experienced personal and professional growth that I believe will prove valuable in shaping my future career.
Alex
My project involved exploring the concept of Media Mix Modeling. With the guidance of professionals, I learned about the uses, limitations and theory behind MMM and got the chance to consolidate my skills by applying a media mix model to a sample dataset using Python. This fascinating project allowed me to enhance my data science skills and I gained experience in conducting exploratory data analysis and building and using predictive models.
I also gained an understanding of the different aspects of data science, and the skills necessary for a career in data science or analytics engineering, during sessions run by professionals at Station10. This will be very valuable to me, as will the experience of working in an office environment for the first time. I found the environment at Station10 to be friendly and collaborative and I was supported at all times to develop my skills whilst also enjoying myself.
Conclusion
During our time at Station10, we had the chance to enhance our expertise in Data Science through various valuable opportunities. We expanded our knowledge in essential areas like analytics engineering and data science during sessions led by experienced members of respective teams. As we bid farewell to Station10, we carry with us not only the technical skills and knowledge we acquired, but also a deep appreciation for the power of collaboration, continuous learning, and the boundless potential of data science to support our future careers and impact the world.