How I Discovered WeCloudData
From my former business partner Albert Ngan, who is a WeCloudData Alumni success story. He’s a smart guy, and I trust his research.
The Decision to Choose WeCloudData
The main deciding factor was the real client projects (job placements) at the end of the program. Coming from the University of Waterloo’s Co-Op program, I know how effective internships and placements are.
My Professional Background
I graduated from the University of Waterloo with a degree in Electrical Engineering in 2001. I worked as a DSP Engineer for a couple of years before starting a ‘non-tech’ business. This business kept me busy for 15+ years before I finally decided to move on. After that, I did some business consulting for associates I met over the years. Seeing the explosion in AI and machine learning, I decided to enroll in a Data Science bootcamp in 2023.
Motivation Behind Data Science
Having run a business for 15+ years, I realize the importance of data. I wanted to learn more about using data in business and how big companies use big data.
My Personal Journey
When I left high-tech in 2003, all my friends were either working at banks or social media companies. I wanted to make things, but not many tech companies were making anything. After working for two years as a DSP engineer, I quit and applied to OCAD for Industrial Design. To pay for art school, I imported some interior design products the summer before enrollment. Things got so busy, I never made it to art school. After a year, I was designing my own products. This led to a 16-year business. Founding and growing a business also forced me to grow as a person. During the COVID lockdown, I decided to get back into high tech. After some research and speaking with friends, I decided that Data Science was my best entry point into the ML and AI world.
WeCloudData’s Program Highlights
I think the assignments and projects were very well done. Lectures are boring by nature, but Jupyter Notebook helps as we were able to code along. The assignments and projects are engaging and challenging in a healthy way.
Support from Instructors and TAs
Instructors and TAs were very responsive and available most of the time. This really helps, but ChatGPT was by far the best assistant.
Online Learning Experience
I went to school pre-internet and was in university from 1995-2001. So, between not having to write notes, Jupyter Notebooks, and ChatGPT, learning has never been easier.
Advice for Success in Online Classes
Be curious and work hard. You paid for this course, make the most of it. If you’re working, take time off to put maximum effort into the real client projects. You need to impress during these placements.
Impact of Real Client Projects
I got an offer from them, so I didn’t have to search for a job. As I’ve said before: Work hard and impress. You have a foot in the door during real client projects. You’ve effectively bypassed the resume and interview process.
Job Search Journey
0 days, 0 applications, 0 interviews. Again, I let my work during the real client project speak for me.
Mentorship and Career Guidance
I did not have a mentor.
Resume and Portfolio Strengths
N/A
Insights into Data Science Interviews
N/A
WeCloudData Diploma Impact
N/A
Advice for Aspiring Data Scientists
This course is intense, comparable to my time at UW Engineering. Do it full-time. Do the pre-bootcamp course.
Post-WeCloudData Career Growth
It’s been a blur. Much better not having to do lectures. Instead of assignments, I have real work. Getting paid is not bad either.