I’m really struggling with my career path right now and could use some advice from people who might have been in similar situations.
My Background:
I worked in data science for about three years at two different companies. The work was pretty good - decent salary, remote work flexibility, and I felt like I was actually making a difference with the projects I worked on. But after a while, I started feeling stuck and wanted something more challenging.
So I decided to get an MBA from a top business school. My goal was to move into product management roles in tech companies. However, when I graduated, the job market for product positions wasn’t great, so I ended up taking a role at one of the major consulting firms.
Current Problem:
Now that I’m working in consulting, I’m not really enjoying it. Most of my time is spent creating presentations using existing frameworks and templates. It doesn’t feel creative or innovative like my previous data science work did. I miss the feeling of building something from scratch and seeing real results.
I’m torn between two options:
- Going back to data science work that I found more meaningful
- Staying in consulting to make use of my MBA and build the “right” career progression
My Concerns:
I’m worried that if I go back to data science, I won’t be using my expensive MBA degree properly. I’ve heard that having consulting experience from a top firm really helps your career long-term.
But I’m also concerned that my technical skills have gotten rusty during business school and my consulting role. There are probably other candidates with more recent experience who might work for less money.
I’ve tried applying to product and analytics roles at big tech companies, but haven’t had much success. I’m hesitant to leave the prestige of my current consulting job to join a smaller company or startup.
Has anyone else dealt with a similar situation? What would you recommend?
Having faced a similar crossroads, I can empathize with the weight of your decision. It’s important to remember that your MBA is not wasted if you choose to return to data science; in fact, it can be a significant asset. Organizations are increasingly seeking data scientists who possess a comprehensive understanding of business operations, not just technical skills.
Regarding your concerns about your technical abilities, the foundational skills you’ve acquired tend to endure. Moreover, your consulting experience has likely enhanced your problem-solving capabilities and client communication skills—qualities that are often more crucial than familiarity with the latest tools or technologies.
Consider this transition not as abandoning consulting, but rather as advancing into a data science role that also leverages your business insights. Many firms are looking for senior data scientists who can bridge the gap between technology and business strategy. Ultimately, pursuing a career that aligns with your passions will lead to greater happiness and fulfillment than clinging to a prestigious title that feels misaligned.
Your MBA actually makes you more valuable in data science! Companies are desperate for people who get both the tech side and business side. Don’t get trapped by prestige if you’re miserable - go after what gets you excited!
Been there - worked analytics for 4 years before my MBA pivot. Here’s what nobody tells you: consulting experience makes you a unicorn in data science, especially at mid-size companies that need someone who can talk to executives. I left my big-name consulting job after 18 months for a Series B startup as their first “business-focused” data scientist. Best decision I’ve made! Had to brush up on Python (took 2-3 weeks), but being able to frame data problems in business terms got me promoted twice in two years. Don’t underestimate how rare that combo is - most data scientists can’t present to C-suite.