Why I Became a DATA SCIENTIST as a Physics Major

As someone who has an unconventional background for data science, I made this video to chat about why I became a data scientist, how to become a data scientist, and my physics background as a physics major from UChicago! So here's my physics major to data scientist story!
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Timestamps:
00:00 physics failure + sellout
00:50 physics phd stats
02:36 initial uchicago physics reactions
03:30 quantification through code
04:44 computer science + benefits
07:36 data science is generalizable
07:56 pay
09:36 summary
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Welcome to my channel - College Tips From the Almost Astrophysicist! I'm Priya and I'm here to help you get into college. I'm a University of Chicago grad with an Astrophysics degree that currently works as a Data Scientist and I want to break down the college application process and tackle all of the misconceptions about college for you! Let me know in the comments section down below if you have any video requests, or just want to say hi! :)
LinkedIn: / priya-l-520311145
Instagram: / plingutla

[@TheAlmostAstrophysicist]

Everyone's physics and/or data science journey varies vastly, so I hope this video gives you a glimpse into my story and insight into how relevant data science is in this day and age (and how beneficial my physics degree was for it)! Thank you so much for watching and don't forget to drop a hi or any questions you may have down below 😊 (timestamps in the description box!)

[@diamondburton5060]

Hello, I’ve been studying data science since January. I’m an MSIT major at NCAT. I’m looking to enter a PHD major in data science. I love it but Python was really hard for me to learn during my internship. How/when did it click for you to feel comfortable coding in Python?

[@pandasambit15]

Wow. This was so relatable. I am also from a physics background (MSc. Astrophysics) and currently working as a scientist in a related field. But, like you, I feel like I am more inclined towards Data Science and Computational Problem solving rather deep theoretical research. It was really nice to know about your journey and I would love to see a video on how a working professional could about transitioning to Data Science field.

[@pritam9873]

I guess you are from India sambit,m too(m pritam). Where can I do MSC in astrophysics? M currently at bsc level

[@pandasambit15]

@@pritam9873 Pondicherry University BHU IISER DELHI UNIVERSITY

[@pritam9873]

@@pandasambit15 how did you switch from Astrophysics to data science. Is it possible in India?

[@samipkarki198]

Very relatable. I did physics and math in undergrad and originally wanted to do a physics or applied math PhD. Changed my mind because i wasnt very optimistic about becoming a professor, and now am pursuing a masters in Applied math with the goal of pivoting in some other field, Engineering, software development, finance, maybe meteorology. It's hard to decide to decide what career to choose because deep down I still identify myself as a physicist 😅

[@skat3r430]

Hiya! I’m currently an uprising junior physics major with minors in data science and economics. I decided to pick those up because the more research I did on the physics major, I realized I needed supplemental hard skills for a job. I’m also doing physics research over this summer and I love it! We use real data from a telescope in Utah, and detect Terrestrial Gamma-Ray Flashes (TGF). As students, we’re basically data cleaning and running simulations on python/Linux. I feel like this is as close to an experience I will get to being involved in ‘data science.’

[@TheAlmostAstrophysicist]

Hi! That's very practical of you - I think the mix of economics/data science/physics is going to give you SUCH an extensive and practical problem-solving tool set. That's totally a project that is directly data science - we worked with supernovae data, star/galaxy data, and let me tell you, working with that data in a data science context is so easily translatable to any industry so you're gaining a lot of valuable experience. Good luck! :)

[@izu0506]

This is great information! My son loves science and wants to major in Physics. I will share this to him to help make great decision.

[@mr.gk5]

It'd be interesting if you could tell more about how you made the transition from physics major to a more tech heavy job as data scientist like what programing classes did you take, what are the challenges, how long it took you to learn programming and successfully apply your physic background into data science. And btw, quantitative finance is where it's at, would love to see a video talking about that too. You got a sub!

[@PythonBasics]

I love your story, thank you for sharing

[@christianfischer9971]

Thank you for sharing! I’ve always been intrigued with math, physics, and astronomy. When I was ten years old, I had the opportunity to attend a public event hosted by John Wood, an optical engineer and astrophysicist. He demonstrated laws of physics and showed images from the Hubble telescope. And at 11 years old, I had an aunt who taught math at a college in Houston. I visited each summer, and she enrolled me into astronomy courses they offered for kids. By the time I was 15, I had over a hundred books from Einstein, Isaac Newton, Theory of Relativity, etc. I started out as a physics major in college. But, life happened and had to step away from academics for a while. Then I began CompTIA certifications. I’m back now double majoring in Math and English. Only have one year! The school offers a MS in Data Analytics, which sounds interesting, and MBA with a Quantitative specialization.

[@TheSoulCrisis]

I feel you, I took two physics courses in my CS program and I loved so much about problem solving, analysis, setting up knowns/unknowns, visualization, etc. Solving a physics problem is very much like solving a computational problem.

[@vatsalmandalia1223]

I too come from an Astrophysics background. I have a MPhys in Physics with Astrophysics. In my third year in University, I came to know about the field of data science. I was fascinated to see the number of people employed in this field have a physics or astrophysics degree. The thing in data science which excites me the most is performing exploratory data analysis using Python and then coming up with different visualisations which communicate the insights in the data. In addition, doing predictive modelling and applying various Machine Learning algorithms to real world datasets has also excited me. From this video I have got some clarity regarding whether or not to pursue a PhD in Astrophysics and moving into a research career. Looking forward to more videos on data science!

[@clairechen4010]

Hey! I just wanna say thank u for making this video and it's super helpful!

[@tylernardone3788]

This was awesome to watch. I have a BS in physics and though I’ve been out of school for 3 years I’m trying to break into data science. Very cool to see someone with a BS in physics working in the field. Would love to watch a video about what your role is like and maybe tips for getting that first job/internship!! Regards!

[@TheAlmostAstrophysicist]

That's awesome to hear, thanks for leaving a comment! I've been out of school just about 2.5 years now and I've seen so many physics majors in data science. My manager at the start-up I work at is actually a physics Ph.D.! I have a video about getting summer internships in college that actually goes through how to structure resumes/prep for interviews that may help, but I will 100% make a video (hopefully over the next 2 weeks) about what it's like being a data scientist/my role and another one about prepping for dsci-specific interviews! Stay tuned!

[@shoroqtarifi7548]

This was a very useful and informative video, thank you so much!💗

[@TheAlmostAstrophysicist]

I'm so glad it was helpful!! :)

[@riyapundir4898]

Hello Priya The way you delievered this thing was great and really informative.I really enjoyed it and hope if someday you could make a similar video on your job as a data scientist as it involves physics as a major part that would help in clearing some more doubts of those who might wanna pursue this in future.

[@anubhav9767]

make a video about what makes a complete data scientist like tools they should use and generally share your perspective around it

[@sarthak1448]

Awesome video Priya, can ask how much u make as a data scientist, u can tell the range

[@jacksontrogdon4651]

Thoughts on Bioinformatics? I’m a biology major but I’m thinking about switching to comp sci with a concentration in bioinformatics. My end goal is to be a data scientist.

[@kenchu7303]

Im also a bs applied physics graduate working as data scientist now and my friend had also bs physics degree now his software engineer.

[@nazanindove9726]

Despite holding a PhD in astrophysics, I've been actively seeking a career in data science for the past three years. Although sending my CV to numerous recruiters, I haven't secured any interviews yet. 😢

[@esra-rb3vi]

I am between applying an astrophysics phd and data analyst jobs and I really share the same interests with you but I do not have a deep background of coding etc what do you suggest for me?

[@Leopar525]

A keeper ! :)

[@ikeslo]

Great video, Priya. What was the computer programming class that taught you all Python? I can't find any COP class on my campus that does that.

[@TheAlmostAstrophysicist]

Thanks so much!! It was called CS 121 at UChicago :) It was the CS sequence (121 was intro python with everything basically, 122 was building a very big python web app project in a group, scraping data, etc. and using django as the web interface to show the web app, 123 is C++ and more python but like software engineering style code). If you google UChicago CS 121, a website for the syllabus they used should pop up. :) Good luck!

[@bennickclayton6468]

Happy belated

[@vladgurmanov9064]

How did you become a Data Scientist as a Physics major student? The answer: you just went to UChicago (a very prestigious school) and you are pretty smart😅

[@TheAlmostAstrophysicist]

Hahaha uchicago didn't hurt but it's definitely more about crafting the right story, since I was lucky enough to take some CS/computational classes in physics haha the transition was smooth :)

[@jilcha1036]

Every physicist can do that no matter what uni, physicist and mathematicians are the best analysts

[@darkregion]

Hi! Loved this video (super helpful and inspiring) and your channel so much! I’m pursing an undergrad in physics and was also thinking of becoming a data scientist after graduating. What did you do to prepare for data science interviews?

[@TheAlmostAstrophysicist]

Hi! So glad that you find the content helpful! :) I took about 3-4 classes on campus that were either CS or computational physics in python - I'd definitely brush up on simple coding challenges (you can try some on Leetcode, probably just Leetcode easy or Leetcode medium)! I think exploring data science packages like pandas, numpy, sklearn! I had some experience with machine learning classification models in one physics class so I tried to remember the concepts for that as well. I don't think you're expected to know like, all of python at all haha my interviews were certainly more chill in college since they just want someone who knows the basics and can learn fast. :) Just emphasize during the behavioral section that physics really helps you approach abstract problems in a robust and detail oriented way!

[@mossbogger8366]

im thinking of going back to school to become a physicist, there is a job where you just do imaging equipment inspections and certification, makes about 200k/annual. I think getting the degree will but much harder than doing the job, I think I can already do the job since I work as a biomed engineer for MRI equipment. I was one of the people who slipped into medical equipment repair with no degree, though I did go to college during my career to pursue an engineering degree. I got to calculus and reconsidered, I wasn't sure what I really wanted out of an engineering degree since I already had the job, it wasnt till now where I realize what job I want, 22 years into my career. Im 39. That's how long it took me to figure it out. I really feel sorry for anyone entering the workforce straight after college, having to figure it all out before the fact. Must be extremely nerve wrecking.

[@greatplayz486]

“Many physics PhD’s go on to become a professor with a lab and goes on to discover the origins of the Universe” Me who wants to do exactly that: 😐😔

[@ariyanbista5837]

I hate it to break it to you but it's not that easy nowadays.You'll probably be the luckiest guy if you're able to land an assistant professorship with only a Phd

[@Garglicious]

Lmaoo i left my astrophysics degree too .. will be a sellout and get into engineering to earn some money 😭

[@user-kg4gv4vf1b]

Hello everyone, I am a bachelor of physics, but I would like to switch to It, please tell me, besides DS, what interesting specialties are there related to physics and mathematics

[@powerofyouth..6031]

Mam please iam current msc in physics student can I become data scientist? Is it good choice maam please tell 🙏🏿😭

[@niallmeade1543]

Can u talk about what being a data scientist involves

[@markkennedy9767]

Have you noticed that you have upspeak (rising intonation) at the end of all your declarative sentences. Just something to think about.

[@mykold9313]

Do you think it’s possible to get a PhD and work in data science . I am currently an undergrad in Psychology and want to pursue my doctorate but I also want to be able to get into something where I can get a livable wage until then .

[@TheAlmostAstrophysicist]

TOTALLY! Honestly, the best data scientists are ones with phds where they did lots of computational work for their theses. My manager is a physics Ph.D. and I've seen so many amazing Lead Data Scientists/Data Science Managers who got their phds. For example, I think Uber specifically prefers hiring people with Ph.Ds that have a computational focus for their data science group!

[@nayanpandit9805]

I have completed my MSc degree in physics and want shift my career to data science.....and confused how to start .

[@livelovelife777]

Discovering the next Higgs Boson...ha ha ha....totally relatable...

[@longcorridors]

Do you think someone from a humanties background can switch gears and break into the field?

[@shilpyagarwal8652]

Hi Priya, did you get into Data science job after undergrad or post grad in Physics?

[@TheAlmostAstrophysicist]

I got into it right after undergrad with a B.Sc. in Astrophysics!

[@Model_T800]

Hey! This video was really helpful, love your channel! I'm currently in the last year of high school and am planning to do my undergrad in mechanical engineering. Initially, I wanted to major in physics as that's been my favourite subject since childhood(especially classical mechanics). I essentially wanted to research and, possibly, formulate new theories. However, on research and by speaking to a few physics undergrads, I found that the job demand for physicists isn't that great and many struggle to land a decent job let alone become a full-time researcher. So, I changed my decision and decided to pursue engineering instead as they, unlike physicists, get paid better and are qualified to work in a number of industries, thus increasing their market demand. I'd really appreciate it if you could you please provide your opinion on the above and advise if I have taken the right decision. Thanks a lot.

[@elmo6123]

Has been 2 years and now I’m on your position. What did you decided?

[@Model_T800]

@elmo6123 Dang didn't realise it's been 2 years since then. I decided to go ahead with Computer Engineering because it pays well, has an amazing industry, and also teaches physics courses. Don't let my choice sway yours, tho. Everyone has their own perspective. You should decide what's good for you and trust yourself with it. Best of luck!!

[@tushar6767]

Hi Priya , i have some questions Can you please help me 1. I'm doing B.Sc in physics ,in india but hear not much opportunities regarding physics ,i also want to make carrier in Astronomy or astrophysics so for masters I'm going to Germany for my post-graduation ,can you please tell me what are the job opportunities in physics , I don't want to become professor , I want to do research in lab , I actually mastered in python,java , javascript, c & c++ ,after study I m working on bug-bounty on bug croud , i even made websites, application also , I'm confused what actually i want to do ? My parent's , friend tells me that you have computer knowledge so do computer engineering But my dream is solving universe , What if i don't get job in reserch center Can i go to any IT firm for job ? Please , please help me guide me 🙏🏻

[@soumyaa4230]

how did it your journey turn out? I am at the same position as you were, undergrad from India, and going to Germany soon for my masters

[@tushar6767]

@@soumyaa4230 I am currently doing internship at IISER pune for 6 months in astrophysics and then preparing for Thesis side by side taking German language classes

[@tushar6767]

@@soumyaa4230 when you're going to Germany 2023 ? Summer or winter ?

[@soumyaa4230]

@@tushar6767 this year winter sem

[@tushar6767]

@@soumyaa4230 whoa that's great congratulation can you please tell me which college did you get ?

[@brandoncharles5413]

Does someone listen to Andrew Huberman?

[@Kilo1Nation]

I am currently working towards a MS in Applied Data Science. Do you think a PhD is necessary to become a Data Scientist? I know I could probably land a role as an analyst, but I would like to progress to being a scientist. Keep the great videos coming!

[@TheAlmostAstrophysicist]

Definitely don't need a Ph.D! I don't have one! A lot of data scientists I work with don't have Ph.Ds but have masters, or have B.Sc's with a lot of work experience! :)

[@TA_Tactics]

She had me at "the most noble of the Sciences"... 😂

[@Mark-te8ky]

Why so many technologist study Physics?

[@trulykeanna148]

Do you need a masters?

[@TheAlmostAstrophysicist]

Great question! I had a B.S. in Astrophysics and did not have a masters - I think taking a couple of computer science (and computational physics) classes where I learned to code helped A LOT. Also, I recruited through on-campus recruitment at UChicago and I feel like it's honestly so much easier applying and getting a job while you're still in college through career fairs, etc. because you get to interact directly with recruiters, employees, and those who'll interview you. (I've actually interviewed uchicago students for my company and we love learning about students and working with those who have unconventional backgrounds)! If you're out of college, you certainly don't need a masters - you could learn to code through self-study and build projects yourself to showcase in a projects section within your resume, or perhaps even take part in an intensive data science bootcamp in lieu of a masters! It's really up to you - a masters makes it much easier to learn and get a job though out of college if you don't come from a technical background. :) Hope this helps!

[@kamalaharriss4502]

I am not sure why you didn’t want a PhD though. If you love Computational Astrophysics, why didn’t you pursue a PhD in that? Yes, the pay is less, but you don’t pursue a doctorate for the money, you pursue it because that is what you love to do. The only explanation I can think of is that you were not qualified for PhD. Is this correct? Don’t mean to sound rude or insensitive, just want to know because I want to major and get a PhD in physics.

[@TheAlmostAstrophysicist]

The way you phrased it sounds a bit rude, but I realized that physics wasn’t the path for me. It’s extremely competitive, and I went to the University of Chicago where I met the brightest minds and realized that I didn’t love it the way they did. Data science is super interesting, I really like it and I get paid right out of college for it. Money isn’t everything, but it was a part of many things I had to consider because life isn’t free either. I averaged straight A’s in my astrophysics-specific classes, including graduate level classes, so I wouldn’t say I wasn’t qualified. It just wasn’t right for me, and I wasn’t going to make the greatest impact in that field the way I knew my peers would.

[@mykold9313]

@@mann5861 y’all are so weird and don’t know her or her life . Stop trolling

[@theeskatelife]

clearly there is job that a physics major cant do, namely being a physicist as you demonstrate haha

[@daenerystargaryen]

This is so sad. YT recommended your video regarding astrophysics and as a future physics major I immediately subscribed as physics is something I want to do... But this is disappointing