Application Tips From New York's First Data School Cohort

We here at The Data School New York have been lucky enough to be part of The Information Lab's first cohort in The United States, but of course, it was more than just luck! My knowledge of the application process is purely based on what I have experienced, so I decided to solicit some advice from my fellow future consultants so that you can be better informed and more prepared when your time to apply arrives. Click on the names of my teammates to check out their profile pages!

1. Yad Pannu

"Make the attempt! Don't think you won't have the skills to create a dashboard."

It can be intimidating to apply for this job knowing that you're being compared against a bunch of other qualified applicants. Furthermore, you may check out the successful applications and see some quality products! Don't be intimidated by all of this; focus on your own performance and remember that everyone starts somewhere.

2. Eric Williams

"This application is very different than what we are used to. Don't focus on perfection because you will overwhelm yourself. The lack of skills and ability in this new space is part of the process."

There's a reason that connecting with the team for feedback throughout the application is a big part of the process. Everyone understands that you are learning and improving as you create. By focusing on continuous improvement over perfection you are displaying the skills and attributes of a good data schooler.

3. Quinn Serfass

"Do your research on the topic. There is value in having background information on what you are visualizing."

When we have supplementary information around our data, we are not only giving ourselves context on what we are looking at, but the story is being refined. Bring in information from outside sources to enhance the data story and affirm to the team that you have authority on the topic.

4. Pooja Srivastava

"Whatever you create, just own it!"

A level of confidence in what you have created is important when presenting to the team. It not only shows a level of authority over your data product but shows you have pride in your product.

5. Islande Derazin

"Find a story in the analysis, it will make everything easier."

Similar to Quinn's point, when we uncover a story within the data we are not only given a path to explore it more thoroughly, but we are showing that we fully understand the data. This comprehension is incredibly valuable to an applicant.

6. David Yang

"During the interview, ask a lot of questions. It shows passion and interest, but also there is less time for them to hit you with tough questions!"

By engaging with your audience during the interviews you are showing a genuine interest that the team wants to see. A healthy dose of curiosity is important in data analytics, and questions about the position or the interview process highlights that character trait. Of course, David is also right in saying the more questions you ask, the less questions you'll be hit with.

7. Karen Hamilton

"Take a moment to look Tableau Public. Get some inspiration, but then shut it down. Don't be intimidated by the quality dashboards people are creating with Tableau. Remember you are still learning, and focus on your story."

Looking at previous, successful applications is highly recommended during the interview process. That said, it can be quite intimidating looking at the amazing products people have created while you are just making your first bar chart. Get inspiration from these people, but don't hold yourself to the same standard as them. Everyone has a different level of experience.

8. Tristan Kelly (Yours Truly)

"Connect with the data community. Although it may feel a little weird at first to solicit advice and assistance from strangers, the resources and guidance will prove invaluable to your progress in the application."

The data analytics industry space is very open and friendly. Don't be afraid to ask for help during the process! This could be going onto LinkedIn and asking someone you are connected with for help, or just reaching out to the team here at TIL during the application process. No matter how you connect with the community, it will be beneficial to your application, and people will take note of the effort you have made.

Per usual, if you have any questions or need some advice, feel free to connect with me by clicking on my name above. Good luck!

Author:
Tristan Kelly
Powered by The Information Lab
1st Floor, 25 Watling Street, London, EC4M 9BR
Subscribe
to our Newsletter
Get the lastest news about The Data School and application tips
Subscribe now
© 2025 The Information Lab