An Anatomy Graduate turned Health Data Analyst

Introduction

My data journey began with a three-month internship at Resagratia, an experience that transformed my understanding of data operations, analysis, and engineering, and solidified my passion for the field. As someone just venturing into the world of data skills, I found this experience challenging, tasking, and incredibly awesome. Here, I’d like to share my journey and insights for those who are also starting their path in the data field.

When I joined Resagratia as a data operations and program intern, I was eager to immerse myself in the world of data. The internship program was well planned, providing a balance between theoretical knowledge, practical application, administration, teamwork, and personal development. During these three months, I was involved in two major responsibilities namely; Data Operations Tasks and Building Personal Projects.

Data Operations Tasks:

1. Posting Daily Schedules: I posted day to day expected activities of the students in the Discord channel, starting from Weekly Trivia Quizzes, Additional Readings, Answers to the Quizzes, and Encouraging the Students, among many others.
2. Student Support: I supported the students in areas where they required and requested for my assistance such as helping them to understand a particular topic better and assisting them in solving some technical problems. This made me to read and research more, thereby making me more of a better person in the data field.
3. Student Follow-up: I followed up with students who didn’t complete their weekly tasks to know their reasons for lagging and find alternative ways to help them out within my reach. At the end of the week, I will build a visual report and insights drawn from the follow-up which I will present as a report to the Resagratia administrators every Monday, this helped me in reporting very well as a data analyst.
4. Team Project Supervision: I supervised and guided the students on their team projects where they were grouped and allowed to carry out real-time data analysis projects, after which, they presented to the Judges. From this team project, I built on teamwork, and leadership skills, and viewed things from the lens of a Stakeholder.
5. Mentorship Sessions: I reminded the students of the mentorship sessions on Saturdays and encouraged them to join the sessions, also, it is a mandatory duty that I join sessions and this helped me understand what mentorship looks like.

Building Personal Projects:

I built at least three personal projects as an intern which enabled me to have the following experiences;

1. Data Collection and Cleaning: Understanding the importance of accurate data, I learned how to gather data from various sources and clean it to ensure reliability. This step is crucial as it lays the foundation for all subsequent data analysis.
2. Data Analysis: Using tools like Excel, SQL, and Power BI, I performed data analysis to extract meaningful insights. This involved understanding different types of data, applying statistical methods, and visualizing data to communicate findings effectively.
3. Data Visualization: I got hands-on experience with data visualization tools such as Excel and Power BI. Creating visual representations of data helped make complex data more understandable and actionable.
4. Reporting: Regular reporting was a significant part of my internship. I learned how to present data insights clearly and concisely, tailoring reports for different stakeholders.

Key Takeaways from My Internship

1. Attention to Detail: Data work requires meticulous attention to detail. Errors in data collection or analysis can lead to incorrect conclusions. Always double-check your work and strive for accuracy.
2. Continuous Learning: The field of data is constantly evolving. Stay updated with the latest tools and techniques. Online courses, webinars, and reading industry blogs can help you stay ahead.
3. Problem-Solving Skills: Data operations often involve solving complex problems. Develop a problem-solving mindset and don’t be afraid to tackle challenging tasks. Each problem solved is a step towards mastering data skills.
4. Collaboration and Communication: Working with data often involves collaborating with different departments and stakeholders. Good communication skills are essential for explaining your findings and making data-driven recommendations.

Advice for Aspiring Data Professionals

1. Start with the Basics: Build a strong foundation by learning the basics of data analysis, including, the knowledge of the dataset, data cleaning, and data visualization. Platforms like Resagratia offer excellent introductory courses.
2. Practical Experience: Theory is important, but practical experience is invaluable. Work on real-world projects, participate in internships or volunteer for organizations that need data assistance.
3. Networking: Connect with other data professionals. Join online forums, attend webinars, and participate in local meetups. Networking can open up opportunities and provide support as you navigate your data journey.
4. Portfolio Building: Create a portfolio showcasing your projects and skills. A well-curated portfolio can demonstrate your abilities to potential employers and set you apart from other candidates.
5. Stay Curious: The field of data is vast and offers endless learning opportunities. Stay curious, ask questions, and always be willing to learn more.
   

Conclusion

My internship at Resagratia was a pivotal moment in my data journey. It provided me with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to pursue a career in data analysis and data science in view. For those just starting, remember that every expert was once a beginner. Embrace the learning process, stay dedicated, and your efforts will surely pay off. The world of data is exciting and full of potential, dive in and explore the endless possibilities.

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