Today, I have the pleasure of speaking with Magda Kostrzewska, the author of the popular Instagram profile MyDataStory. Magda is an experienced data analyst and data scientist, and in this interview, she will share her fascinating career journey, the challenges she faces, and the tools she uses daily in her work. Main topic: data scientist vs data analyst.
Interview
Kajo Rudziński: Hi, welcome everyone to KajoData. Today we will be talking with Magda Kostrzewska, the author of the Instagram profile MyDataStory. Magda, thank you very much for your time. To start, tell everyone what you do besides working with data.
Magda Kostrzewska: Hi everyone, thanks for the invitation. This is my first interview, I’m a bit nervous, but I’ll try not to show it. My work involves both data analysis and data science. I started as an analyst, but now I lead projects typically focused on data science, machine learning, and artificial intelligence. Data analysis is the foundation for development, so both fields overlap.
How Did Your Journey with Data Begin?
Kajo: Let’s go back a few years. How did you get into working with data?
Magda: My journey with data began with my love for mathematics. I was always an analytical mind, even in elementary school. I studied at SGH, where after the first year of general studies, I chose the quantitative methods and information systems program. This combination of mathematics, business, and economics seemed ideal to me.
Kajo: Do you think mathematical predispositions are essential in the work of a data analyst?
Magda: They are not essential. Nowadays, we have tools that allow you to work as a data analyst without advanced mathematical knowledge. Many people with humanities or artistic tendencies also find themselves in this field.
Challenges and Breakthroughs in Your Career
Kajo: Were there moments that convinced you that this is definitely what you want to do?
Magda: Yes, there were such moments. I started as a Data Visualization Analyst, which seemed like an interesting job, but after some time, I realized that data visualization is not what I want to do. I transitioned to programming and data science, where I found more creativity and variety in projects.
The Role of Programming in Data Science
Kajo: What do you like most about your job?
Magda: I most enjoy the creative part of the job. I like getting a problem and figuring out how to solve it. Programming in Python offers many possibilities, from automation to AI-related projects. Every project is different, making the work interesting and full of challenges.
Explanation of Terms and Tools
Kajo: What is CI/CD and why is it important in the work of a data analyst?
Magda: CI/CD stands for Continuous Integration and Continuous Deployment, processes that enable continuous software delivery to servers. They automate testing and deployment, ensuring faster and more reliable code delivery.
Kajo: What technologies and tools are crucial for you in your daily work?
Magda: I mainly work with Python, SQL, Power BI, and cloud tools like AWS. Tools for data visualization, such as Power BI, are also important as they allow for the creation of intuitive dashboards.
Challenges and Team Collaboration
Kajo: What challenges do you face in your work?
Magda: The biggest challenge is working with stakeholders and explaining why certain solutions take time. It’s important to be able to translate technical aspects into business language.
Kajo: Do you think artificial intelligence can replace data analysts?
Magda: I think AI can support our work, but it will not completely replace data analysts. AI can automate certain tasks, but human intelligence and the ability to formulate thoughts are still necessary.
Advice for Beginners
Kajo: What advice would you give to people who are just starting their careers in this field?
Magda: It’s important to learn from the experiences of people already working in this field. Don’t wander aimlessly, but learn from others. Set a goal and strive to achieve it by learning from mistakes and gaining new experiences.
Kajo: Thank you very much for the interview. Where can people find you if they want to learn more about your work?
Magda: You can find me on Instagram under the name MyDataStory and on LinkedIn as Magdalena Kostrzewska. Feel free to reach out!
That’s all on this topic. Analyze in peace!
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