How I got into Data Science?
Tags: machinelearning, computerscience, datascience, python
Published: 2020-09-27 17:17:59



    

Exactly a year ago, I started my Data Science journey. And today when I look back I feel proud about myself. I am in no way boasting, but instead, I am gonna take you through my journey of Data Science and Machine Learning.

During my IV Semester, I learned how to code in Python i.e the basics like Functions, Loops, Operators, OOPs, etc. Hangman Game and Rock Paper Scissors were some of my initial Python projects. Apart from these, I solved 20-30 problems on CodeWars & CodeChef using Python.

Now since I had a decent understanding of Python, I knew had to shift my gears. But I was confused about whether to go for Web Development or Data Science. I couldn't decide between these two. But my love for numbers hauled me into the world of Data Science & Machine Learning. I was enthusiastic as I have an opportunity to learn something I like. 

So I took up a few online courses on Data Science. I learned about various tools used for Data Analytics, Visualization, and Machine Learning like Python, R, Excel, Base, and Advanced Analytics, MySQL, PowerBI, etc.

After 6 months, I had formal knowledge about the working process of Data Science and had completed a few decent portfolio projects like Red Wine Quality Predictor, Mall Customer Segmentation Problem, etc. After applying for some internships,  I was able to get a 1-month internship at Redwood Algorithms as a Data Science Intern. I understood different steps of a Data Science Project like Data Extraction, Data Cleaning, and Pre-Processing, Visualization, Modelling, Testing & Deployment in a more detailed fashion. I was working on Data Cleaning and Visualization part. 
   
Later, I continued working on Machine Learning projects but this time using Python. Simultaneously, I revised about Regression Concepts and its various types, Cost Function, etc. I completed a few projects like Football Score Predictor, Movie Recommendation System, etc. During November, I got an Internship offer from Makonis Software Solutions to work as a Machine Learning Intern. It was through a LinkedIn Referral.

Initially, it was a 1-month internship which was later extended to 3 i.e till March 2020. During the first month, 80% of the time was spent on Learning on Deep Learning concepts, Computer Vision libraries, etc, while the rest of 20% I used to implement whatever I had learned. 

My main project was to build an Attendance System using Face Recognition. In the first month, I had to build a simple prototype version of the project. Later I had to deploy it on IoT Devices and test the same. It wasn't the ideal version, but it worked. For the next version, I knew I had to optimize some parts of code and write more classes so that it doesn't grow complex and screw up the whole thing. So after the completion of my first project I was given with another Computer Vision related work which was an application of Object Detection. But due to COVID-19, I couldn't extend my internship. Overall it was a great experience. Also I made some new friends over there and it was fun working with them.

Currently, I have enrolled myself into a Deep Learning Course which mainly focuses on Computer Vision. And I'll be sharing some interesting blog posts in future. Stay Tuned!