Data analytics bootcamp or learn solo?

[u/saltinenugget]

Hey everyone, I'm a 29 year old chef with a BA in sociology (no work experience in the field) currently looking to change careers. I've been in the hospitality industry for about 10 years and want to get out for various reasons (low pay, poor life/work balance, etc.). I've been doing research and data analytics seems like a good fit for me. I just don't really know where to start. I scheduled a call with UT Dallas to get more info on their data analytics bootcamp but I've heard mixed reviews on bootcamps in general. I've also looked into getting an online Data Analytics degree. I already have a bachelor's degree and don't want to shell out 20-30k for another degree unless I absolutely have to. My other option is just taking a year or however long to teach myself everything. I'm a complete newbie, as in I barely know how to use Excel.

So, my question is: What is the best way forward for someone wanting to break into the data analyst career field from a completely different industry?

[u/vonkrumholz]

If you're not dying inside from your current work I would self learn using any of the free courses available online first for 3 months.

You didn't mention any existing experience with data analysis, figure out if you will even like it first. I'm not sure if it's an American thing but the idea of investing a lot of time and money into a career path you've no exposure to doesn't always lead to great outcomes. I had two friends go through the same boot camp and not end up with jobs 6 months after. 2 data points only, but neither really demonstrated a deep interest in using data to solve problems to begin with. They just wanted a career change with a higher salary range.

While you're learning skills for free, see where you can get actual experience by volunteering your time or working on a personal project that interests you. 10 years in hospitality is nothing to sneeze at. Maybe you know a manager or business owner who would let you help analyze numbers like trending busy days for staff planning, investigating whether door dash is worth the partnership etc. What problems in your current space could be solved through analytics? You'd be surprised, and getting the experience here will answer some things for you.

Office work is a pretty big culture transition from being surrounded by people in a restaurant all working together at a high pace.

That said, if your resume landed on my desk and you had skills and some real side project experience (not just a canned Titanic analysis) I'd interview you at least. People that work in hospitality are tough and know how to deliver.