In the world of data analytics, we often hear about tools, technologies, and trends but we rarely get to hear the real stories behind career transitions. That’s why I invited Izabela Witczak to this conversation. She’s a member of KajoDataSpace who went from zero experience to working as a data analyst in Norway – all within just nine months.
What makes her story remarkable is not only the speed of her transition, but also her persistence, strategic planning, and the community she built along the way. This is a story full of inspiration, grit, and yes – Excel.
Becoming a Data Analyst
Kajo: Hi Izabela, thanks for agreeing to this interview. Let’s start from the beginning: how did your interest in data analysis come about?
Izabela: Honestly, it was triggered by a life situation—specifically some minor health issues. That was the starting point. I was starting completely from scratch, having had no previous experience with data. In my previous job, I only used Excel.
Kajo: So it was a decision driven by the need for change. But why data analysis specifically?
Izabela: Kind of by accident. I went to a Career Center where they did a career aptitude test. It turned out that data analysis was a field I had strong potential for. I started listening to your YouTube channel, reading more about the profession, and then I found some free Excel courses.
First Steps and Learning Plan
Izabela: Excel clicked right away – I liked it. So I decided to join KajoDataSpace. Your offer resonated with me the most.
Kajo: Weren’t you worried that the job market was saturated or that it would be hard to break in?
Izabela: No. When I saw that there were more job listings for data analysts in my city than for regular office jobs, I felt it was a realistic path. I researched the technologies required, made a list of must-have and nice-to-have tools, and started learning them one by one.
Kajo: That’s a very methodical approach. What motivated you the most?
Izabela: Just the learning itself! I love learning new things. I had a specific goal—like in sports: there’s a plan and a path to the goal, which was getting a job. I treated it like a training program.
On Aptitude and Challenges
Kajo: Do you think aptitude plays a role?
Izabela: Maybe a little, but motivation is more important. For example, I really struggle with learning languages. I’ve been learning Norwegian for years and it’s tough, but learning data analysis was enjoyable and logical. It confirmed that this was the right path for me.
Learning Path
Kajo: What was the order in which you learned the tools?
Izabela: I started with Excel, then SQL, then mixed in some Power BI and Tableau. I left Python for the end. Meanwhile, I enrolled in postgraduate studies in data analysis.
Kajo: How do you evaluate those studies?
Izabela: I wanted to have a certificate. I had previously studied in Poland, but I live in Norway. Studying in Norway would have been very expensive, whereas the Polish postgraduate course cost me about 4000 PLN per year. For me, it was worth it.
Kajo: Did that investment pay off?
Izabela: Yes, because I was asked about it during job interviews—especially about databases. It gave me credibility. Even though not everything was useful (like a very theoretical AI subject), overall, it was worth it.
Job Search
Kajo: When did you start sending out your CVs?
Izabela: Around January, four months after I started learning. In March, a company helping students find internships contacted me, and by July I had a full-time job.
Kajo: Wow, so the whole process took less than a year.
Izabela: Yes, but it wasn’t a straight path. The same company rejected me two or three times. First for a data analyst position, then for internships. But I was persistent – I kept reaching out on LinkedIn, having conversations, making contacts. Eventually, they said I had potential and hired me.
LinkedIn and Networking
Izabela: LinkedIn was my main networking platform. I didn’t know anyone from the field in Norway. I would look up junior analysts, check their profiles, what technologies they listed, what degrees they had.
Kajo: So a bit like digital stalking, huh? (laughs)
Izabela: Exactly how it felt. But it helped me understand what I needed to learn.
Creating Data Acolyte
Kajo: You also mentioned your own community. How did Data Acolyte start?
Izabela: I took a break from KajoDataSpace but missed being part of a community. I asked if I could stay on the Discord without the subscription, but it wasn’t possible. So I created my own server. I invited some classmates from my postgraduate studies – and then it started growing.
Kajo: It turned out great for everyone. Your community is free, independent, and very objective.
Izabela: That was the idea. I wanted beginners to get honest feedback on courses and be able to share experiences.
Kajo: And you’ve really nailed it technologically too. Your server is more advanced than many “professional” ones. Respect.
Data Analyst Work in Practice
Kajo: So how’s the full-time job? Does it align with what you learned?
Izabela: Somewhat yes, somewhat no. I had to learn additional things like Power Apps, data flows, and automation. And most importantly: I no longer create dashboards for myself, but for business stakeholders with specific needs. It’s a different mindset.
Kajo: And were you disappointed?
Izabela: Not at all. On the contrary, it motivated me even more. I realized there was still so much to learn. And during my internship, I already had a strong foundation – stronger than some colleagues.
Kajo: That’s very common. People who’ve been in a company for a while often don’t feel the need to update their skills. You came in fresh and current.
Izabela: Exactly. I’m still learning and still hungry to grow.
Kajo: So from that first career center visit to a full-time job took nine months. That’s impressive—especially considering the initial rejections.
Izabela: Yes. They said no to me three times. But I didn’t give up. Eventually, it worked out.
Kajo: And that’s the kind of story that really inspires.
Summary – how to becoma a data analyst with no experience
Izabela’s journey proves that entering the data analytics field isn’t just for those with technical degrees or years of experience. What truly matters is determination, a solid plan, and the courage to keep going even after a few “no’s.” It’s also a great example of how important community support can be – whether it’s through Discord, LinkedIn, or learning groups.
I hope this interview inspires you to take action. If you’re thinking about switching careers into data – remember, it’s absolutely possible. You just have to take the first step.
Links we mention in this conversation:
📊 Izabela Witczak:
Prefer to read in Polish? No problem!
Other interesting articles:
- How to Start Analyzing Your Own Data? 5 Steps for Aspiring Data Analysts
- What to Do with a Weak Resume? 5 Strategies That Actually Work
- The Modern Programmer – Interview with Kamil Brzeziński
The article was written by Kajo Rudziński – analytical data architect, recognized expert in data analysis, creator of KajoData and polish community for analysts KajoDataSpace.
That’s all on this topic. Analyze in peace!
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