Lessons from 700+ students breaking into tech as data/business analytics
Your guide to breaking into tech—no degree, just determination
👋🏽 Hey, it’s Ismail. Welcome to data nomads lab newsletter on learning data analytics, career growth, networking, building portfolios, and interview skills to break into tech role as a high-performer.
As part of Udacity’s & OneTen scholarship program, aimed at increasing black representation in tech. Focused on helping people without a 4-year degree make the jump into high-demand digital roles.
Over the past four years, I’ve had the honor of working with over 700 students
From all walks of life - no four-year degree? No problem
Instructors. Graders. Support. Every step of the way
What I have learned from students:
Many want to switch from low-paying jobs to high-paying tech roles
Others seek the flexibility of working from home, especially with digital skills
Some are students now – hoping to switch their major into data analytics
Some love their current role but want to grow data skills for promotion
The common challenge?
How to actually break into data analytics
It’s not just technical skills
They need interview skills. LinkedIn polish, and a resume that works
A strong portfolio that shows off what they can do
My goal with this newsletter:
I want to bring everything I’ve learned to a larger audience
Practical tips, resources, and insights from real students’ journeys
This newsletter will help you skip the guesswork
So, if you see yourself in these stories…….
Join me – let’s make tech careers more accessible, together
Real voices, real impact – feedback from my students who have been on this journey with me. Most recent cohort.
