Why Do So Many Unfamiliar with Data Science Aspire to the Field?
I used to think it was just the appealing title, but the roots of this trend run deeper. The appeal began with a term known as 'physics-envy,' where every science needed to be statistical and mathematical to remain relevant. This led to the emergence of specialized fields like Analytical Chemistry, BioStatistics, Bioinformatics, Psychometrics, and Econometrics. Even non-science quantitative disciplines followed suit, with Business Management incorporating Management Science, Industrial Engineering adopting Operations Research, and Finance embracing Quantitative Finance and even Six-Sigma, a blend of operations management and statistics.
Recently, the intersection of computer science, data mining, database management, and machine learning with these 'sciency' disciplines led to the birth of Data Science. In this evolving landscape, every field's reasons for desiring a Data Science title come into play: high demand, a sexy title, a proliferation of tools, and a relatively low barrier to entry. It's a chaotic yet exciting period for those considering this career path.
My Journey into Data Science
Even a few years ago, I had no idea what Data Science was, but with effort and determination, I am making progress in that direction. Some people go with the flow, others are passionate about a particular field, and a few truly want to make a mark. The majority of us, however, seek a lucrative and exciting job, and Data Science, as a new trend, promises just that.
Every journey begins with a single forward step. But why do so many who are unfamiliar with Data Science aspire to join the field?
The Appeal of a Sexier Title and High Demand
The title 'Data Scientist' is inherently appealing. When people hear about it, they are told that it pays well. When the term 'Data Science' is described, terms like 'automation' and 'machine learning' are thrown around, often without much context. While there is automation and machine learning involved in many data science jobs, it is not always easy stuff. Due to the rapid evolution and the lack of rigid theories, some of the methods and tools feel improvised, requiring a lot of custom coding and development.
The title of 'Data Scientist' is also overused, which may dilute its appeal. The actual job involves a mix of applied problem-solving, statistical and mathematical methods, and concepts from computer science. Not all of these are backed up by extensive theory, so it can feel like you are making things up as you go along, relying heavily on software and tools that often require extensive customization.
A Lucrative and Exciting New Trend
One of the primary reasons so many people are attracted to Data Science is the promise of a lucrative and exciting job. Data Science has become a trending area in the job market, with high demand and potential for significant financial returns. This trend presents an opportunity for those seeking to make a mark in a dynamic and rapidly expanding field.
Moreover, the field is still relatively new, and there is a lot of room for individuals to innovate and contribute in meaningful ways. The low barrier to entry and the potential for growth and learning make it an attractive career choice for many.