From a Marine Biologist to a Data Analyst

Introduction

Over the past three months, I have had so many incredible thoughts sponsored by the three month internship I underwent at Resagratia. I experienced a significant change in personal and professional growth. This will be my first article detailing my experiences, so I hope that it helps someone out there hesitant to take that job or internship for fear of uncertainty.

Development

Before going ahead, I am a graduate of the University of Lagos, Marine Biology (BSc. Hons). I finished my exams in June 2023, went home, got to work and moved on with life but I knew that I wanted to have an understanding of data analytics and I heard of Resagratia from a friend in the Data field. I enrolled for the class, got assigned to a cohort and I went through three months of intensive trainings, did tests and projects and came out on the other side with a much better understanding of Data and its importance in today’s world.

Internship Application

I did my final project, submitted on time and I got picked, along with some of my colleagues for an internship- Data and Operations Associate. I was so excited to start.

Embracing New Beginnings

I was not prepared for the discipline I would need to exert over all areas of my life in order to make this internship a success. I was onboarded in November to handle a cohort by myself. So, operationally, part of my job description was to help new students- willing to learn about data transition properly, reduce the level of uncertainty surrounding the courses to be studied. In the first week, it seemed like the internship was going to be a breeze. Thinking about it now, I was really silly to have thought that. Gradually, I began to understand how to navigate and make life easy for my mentors, the students and myself. I fell in love with the person I was becoming when helping these students, checking up on them (I do that when I notice that they have not been as active as they should).

Learning By Being Active

I had amazing mentors to help me navigate this path easily. My primary line manager basically demanded that I have no option but to be the best at what I do. I was tasked with mind boggling projects that made sure I used my brain properly. I remember crying when I saw one of the projects I had to work on. These projects broadened my understanding, changed the way I used to think in terms of analysis. I got introduced to new tools, had small but significant corrections that has changed the way I do things till this day. My mentors had meetings with me biweekly to make sure I was properly adjusting. I looked forward to those meetings because I got to satisfy curiosities and add suggestions to work that were taken- when necessary.

Leaving My Comfort Zone

This would probably be the sharpest highlight of my three-month journey. I was assigned a cohort to mentor. So, every Saturday in each cohort, mentor sessions are had. The purpose of this is to allow students express their feelings, state their confusion on modules on courses they had taken throughout the week. I had to throw my reservations and make sure that the students had a wonderful time while also imparting knowledge. When my bosses commended me, I was so excited. The happiness knew no bounds because I overcame another hurdle I faced throughout my adult life.

Conclusion

As I bid farewell to my internship and embark on the next chapter of my data journey, I am filled with gratitude for the invaluable experiences and relationships I’ve gained along the way. I will always carry in me, the lessons learnt, attitudes corrected, professional tidbits gleaned and the deeper understanding that there is more to life than I thought. Thank you so much, Geovanni. You were an amazing boss. I deeply appreciate you, Tobi. Thank you for all the moments of grace you gave me. You were a superb boss! Everything I learnt at Resagratia has irrevocably shaped my future endeavours.

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