The Challenge and Beauty of Being a Woman In Data Science
When I first decided to pursue my passion and study data science, it took a lot of courage to step into for a man-dominated field. My passion and determination were much stronger. What I didn’t know back then was that it will take double the strength and courage every single day to remain an authentic woman working in data science.
How does it feel to be a woman in a man-dominated field?
The Challenging Part
Being a woman in data science means that I have to think twice about every other thing that I do and say; to perceive the expected interpretation given the common biases associated with women. So I have to think twice whether I should show my passion or excitement, lest I get labelled as “emotional.” I have to think twice before cracking up a joke, lest I get labelled as “not serious.” And I have to consciously choose to stay kind and empathetic, even though I would be risking being seen as a “pushover.”
Being a woman in data science means that a good performance is not good enough. Because I am different from the majority, I have to keep proving that I truly deserve to be here over and over again. The only “good enough” performance is being the best of the best: graduating top of the class, delivering double the projects in half the time and quantifying my ROI in millions of euros. Yet, none of these feel like an over-achievement. Each of those is only a justification that I truly deserve my spot as a woman in a man-dominated field.
Being a woman in tech means that I have to consciously choose not to fit in a manly world. Indeed, it feels uncomfortable to walk into a room and be the only woman present. And it requires strength to choose to wear a dress over a hoodie that morning. You see, wearing a hoodie would make me fit into this manly world a bit more. It requires strength not to compromise with my feminine side, inside out. And it requires conscious determination to be who I truly am, without taking the easier way of fitting in.
The Beauty Part
But most importantly, being a woman in data science means that I am truly privileged to experience the incredible power and peace of being authentically unique rather than a conforming copy.
Privileged to be pursuing my passion.
Privileged to be different.
Privileged to be a Woman In Data Science and keep reminding myself that I’m good at what I do, and that I bring skills and qualities to the table that are important and valued.
Stay tuned for my next blog!!