The career paths that lead to The Data School are as unique as the individuals who walk them. For Erlina Cahyadi, her journey began not in data, but in the world of TV advertising. While working in the marketing sector, she also served as a data analytics captain for a program called COOP Careers.
“I was a data analytics captain at COOP Careers, but I was working in TV ads, which is marketing and unrelated to data analytics,” Erlina explained. “When I was teaching my students, I couldn't really talk about real-world experiences with them because I didn't have real-world data analytics experience… that part kind of felt out of touch for me.” Recognizing this gap, she knew she needed to transition into a role that would give her that crucial hands-on experience.
The turning point came during a networking meetup event with The Data School. Despite being happy at her current job with no intentions of leaving, a conversation with Collin Smith, the Director of Operations, changed everything. "I spoke to Collin, and I mentioned, 'Oh, I'm not looking for a job,'" she recalled. "He's said to me, 'Just do it.' And I did it."
This unexpected leap of faith led her to The Data School New York, where the environment was a perfect fit. She praised her coach, noting that "if you didn't understand one way, she would try to teach you in a different way." The positive culture was what stood out most to Erlina. "Everyone was always so supportive and so kind," she said, highlighting a quality she came to value in every workplace.
Today, Erlina is a Senior Tax Analyst at Radius Global Infrastructure. Her experience at The Data School directly prepared her for this role, particularly her time spent in placements. "During my three placements, I worked with a company called Irvine Company... and I think that experience helped a lot in translating what I'm doing right now," she shared. "That definitely made me a really strong candidate when I was interviewing."
While her current job is rewarding, it presents a new challenge. Erlina is considered to be the subject matter expert of Alteryx for her team. Thus, if a roadblock presents itself, she is unable to ask those around her. Luckily she is still in communication with colleagues from The Data School
Looking ahead towards her future, Erlina sees herself still at the same company, hopefully in a management role. "I'm the only analyst on my team... I think I would like there to be room for an analyst manager," she said. Her core values remain the same, focused on people and environment. "How supportive they are, how kind they are. That's what's most important to me." Ultimately, her journey showcases the power of taking a chance. As she advised, "Don't reject yourself before a company rejects you." By not saying no to herself, she took a small, unexpected step that led her to an entirely new and fulfilling career.