By Mehak Malik
Karan Kumar’s journey into the world of Data Science began with a spark of curiosity and a desire to grow beyond the confines of routine. Coming from the culturally rich state of Chhattisgarh and holding a Bachelor’s in Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Karan always had a strong technical foundation. But it was his constant search for something more challenging and future-focused that led him to Data Science.
For Karan, the transition wasn’t just academic. It was deeply personal, a complete transformation of mindset, skill set, and purpose. “This journey has completely transformed me,” he shares, reflecting on how far he’s come.
When Data Became More Than Just a Job
After graduation, Karan joined Vodafone Idea as an MIS Executive. The role involved managing and analyzing data, generating reports, and supporting business decisions, tasks that gave him his first real exposure to the world of data.
That exposure ignited something within him. “Driven by a passion for learning and a desire to expand my skill set,” he explains, he decided to take the leap and pursue a career in Data Science. This wasn’t just a career move, it was Karan’s way of honoring his innate love for problem-solving and data.
Finding the Right People Makes All the Difference
Karan enrolled in the Post Graduate Program in Data Science and Engineering from Great Learning. While the structured curriculum helped him gain hands-on experience with tools like Python, MySQL, Tableau, and Machine Learning algorithms, what truly made the experience unforgettable was the people.
“It wasn’t just the syllabus that made the journey exceptional; it was the incredible support from the faculty,” he says. The instructors weren’t just experts in their field, they were mentors who genuinely cared about learners’ success. “They were always available to answer questions and clear doubts long after the classes ended,” he recalls. That mentorship created an environment where learning was not just possible, but enjoyable.
For Karan, this human connection transformed online education into a life-changing experience. It’s often said that the right people show up at the right time. Karan found his mentors exactly when he needed them most.
Patience, Persistence, and the Payoff
Finishing the program wasn’t the end of the journey, it was just the beginning. Like many fresh graduates from a Data Science program, Karan faced the daunting challenge of landing his first opportunity in the field.
“It was a journey that required patience and persistence,” he admits. But he held onto his determination, and eventually, it paid off. He secured an internship at DataGrokr as a Data Engineer, a pivotal stepping stone that helped him apply everything he had learned in a real-world setting.
He credits his Program Managers for helping him through the placement process with empathy and guidance. “Their support ensured a smooth and seamless process,” he shares. And just like that, Karan’s dream of transitioning into a Data Science career became a reality.
More Than Just a Career Move: A Personal Victory
What makes Karan’s story stand out is not just his successful transition into a new field, it’s the deep sense of gratitude and personal growth that shines through. “I am profoundly thankful for the guidance, mentorship, and opportunities that have come my way,” he reflects.
His journey proves that a strong foundation, the right guidance, and the courage to take risks can change the trajectory of one’s career and life. “My initial goal of acquiring fundamental knowledge and initiating a career in Data Science has materialized, and I am brimming with enthusiasm about the road ahead,” he says.
Turning Dreams into Data-Driven Realities
Karan’s journey is one that many aspiring professionals can relate to, starting in a completely different field, discovering a passion, and finding the courage to pivot. His story is proof that you don’t have to start in Data Science to make it in Data Science. “I genuinely hope my story serves as a beacon of inspiration to those who share similar aspirations,” Karan says.
With curiosity as his compass and learning as his fuel, Karan carved out a future he once only dreamed of. And in doing so, he’s lighting the path for others who are ready to chase their own transformations. “With the right education and unwavering determination, you can turn your dreams into reality in the exhilarating realm of Data Science.”
About Author:
Mehak Malik is a passionate content writer and marketing professional, specializing in creating engaging brand narratives and content strategies. With a Postgraduate degree in MBA (Marketing) from Christ (Deemed to be) University and a graduation in English Literature from Delhi University, she combines a deep understanding of language with sharp marketing insights. Her love for storytelling and strategic thinking drives her to craft content that resonates with audiences and elevates the brand’s voice. Mehak’s transition from literature to marketing fuels her creative approach, making her a key player in developing impactful content strategies.
