Why did you decide to become a mentor?
I decided to become a mentor because mentoring comes naturally to me. I have a genuine curiosity and interest in learning about other people, particularly those who are undergoing personal or professional transformations. Through mentoring, I not only get to share my knowledge and experiences but also learn more about myself in the process. I find it rewarding to witness the moments when my mentees experience breakthroughs, whether it's discovering a new approach to success or finding a solution to a challenging dilemma. Overall, mentoring allows me to make a positive impact on others while continuously growing and gaining insights from the interactions.
How did you get your career start?
My career journey began when I dropped out from a biotech PhD program to working as a business consultant and later as a finance manager in renowned global enterprises. Despite obtaining an MBA from a prestigious school, I felt disillusioned within my domain. The disconnect between financial management and my scientific and engineering background left me searching for a more fulfilling path. It was only later in my career that I discovered data science, and from that point on, I never looked back. Data science resonated with my passion for problem-solving and provided the intellectual challenge and scientific foundation I had been seeking. Transitioning into data science fulfilled many of my career aspirations and provided a sense of purpose that had been missing in my previous roles.
What do mentees usually come to you for?
Mentees typically approach me for guidance and support in transitioning to or starting their careers in data science and analytics. Drawing from my firsthand experience of successfully navigating career changes in one of the most competitive markets, Silicon Valley, I offer no nonsense and direct insights and strategies tailored to their goals and challenges. Additionally, I'm passionate about holistic well-being and can provide advice on maintaining a balanced lifestyle, including health, fitness, and personal interests like Brazilian jiu-jitsu. My mentorship approach is about personalized support, practical advice, and encouragement to help mentees thrive both professionally and personally.
What's been your favourite mentorship success story so far?
The data science education industry, especially academic, is not really tailored for a successful interview preparation. There are few companies which are pretty good in this respect, however the vast majority of aspiring data scientists focus on wrong things. One of my most memorable mentoring victories involved a candidate who was hitting a wall with his data science interviews. He was overwhelmed by the sheer volume of topics and struggling to focus on the required skills. So, I offered some direct advice. I encouraged him to focus on the essentials: his core technical skills and a standout project. Together, we delved into their project stories, ensuring he could articulate her strengths clearly. After a few mock interviews and some confidence-building, he gained more confidence and focus and received first offer, which he decided to decline as he wants to get an offer from much more developed company. It just goes to show, sometimes a little guidance can make all the difference in unlocking one's potential.
What are you getting out of being a mentor?
Being a mentor has brought me a sense of belonging and fulfillment, particularly in the often solitary corporate environment, whether working remotely or in-office. Building meaningful relationships at work can be challenging, but mentoring has allowed me to forge bonds with mentees that often extend beyond professional boundaries. Through these interactions, I not only impart knowledge and guidance but also learn from their experiences and perspectives. Mentoring has enriched my life by providing insights for personal growth, fostering friendships, and strengthening my sense of community in the workplace. It's a mutually beneficial exchange that I value and plan to continue developing.