How to become a Data Scientist without a degree

If you type the How to become a data scientist without a degree into a google search, you will be overwhelmed with several articles giving you advice on the following:

1. a series of prerequisite science classes that you should take
2. the programming languages you need to study
3. all the people, groups, virtual networks that you need to join or be familiar with
4. a syllabus of MOOC classes and online resources that will get you trained and in a job in 6 months

If I were to add a number five, it would be for snake oil. Yes, the old euphemism for a scam. Honestly, maybe if you follow the posted advice on becoming a Data Scientist with a degree, you may land a role. But there are two key anecdotes those articles fail to mention.

This first is:

1. a preface saying this is what WORKED FOR ME and may not work for you …ever

The second is

2. Reprogramming is necessary to accomplish this goal if you currently don’t have a growth mindset—more on this in a second

If you are an absolute beginner at programming, like me, you will need more structure when it comes to preparing to become a Data Scientist without a degree. Good options would be a Data Science Bootcamp, mentor, or private tutor

The Best Decision

The best decision I could have made was applying for the Data Science for All Empowerment program. The program offers elite training with a Harvard professor, and it is free. The program is part-time, allowing room to study at your own pace during the week after ten hours of lecture on Saturdays. Once you settle on a solid study routine, you have to ensure that your why for becoming a Data Scientist is strong. Whether you pursue working in machine learning, data visualization, or even data cleaning, the niche you choose should excite you.

Next, you have to work on reprogramming your mind. Imposter syndrome or self-doubt will lead you to believe you are incapable of learning a new skill, or coding language, or even statistics. But you have to push through and create techniques to help you study and strengthening your mind.
I like listening to Neville Goddard’s lectures on YouTube. I also enjoy journaling and trying to unpack negative thoughts that might arise. Once you control your mindset, you can dominate any life-changing task.

Is it possible to become a Data Scientist without a degree? Yes, start referring to yourself as a Data Scientist! Thoughts become things. Then work on the essential skills that you are missing. Give yourself a realistic timeline. Be consistent with studying and NEVER give up until you get to the result. That’s it—the truthfully answering on How to Become a Data Scientist without a degree.