My Journey from Cutting Bushes to Data Science Internship: A Tale of Determination and Opportunity

Reflecting on my early work experiences, I began my journey not as a polished professional, but as a young boy volunteering to cut branches and clear bushes for the Indian Army surveyors in Nandambakkam, Chennai, during my summer holidays. This experience, although seemingly unremarkable, was a stepping stone in my career path.

By 1971, when I was 14, my father had volunteered me for this task. I worked under the guidance of a gentleman named Amrish Gurung, alongside other boys from the Army, for a total of 40 days. Our days were filled with the simple but meaningful tasks that were vital during the construction of the defense officers' colony. We ate a humble meal of rice, dal, onion, chapati, and pickles during lunch, followed by watery tea and rusks for evening tea. Although the payment was unexpected, I received a fifty-rupee note, which was a pleasant surprise. Additionally, I had the unique experience of holding a gun for the first time, although the ammunition had been removed.

From Labor to Labor of Love: An Experience to Remember

This experience not only helped to earn money but also taught me the value of hard work and the necessity to serve a greater cause. Each year during the summer holidays, I was given various roles at the canteen, kitchen, or garage. It was in the garage where I first learned to drive, an essential skill that I had to do on my own. These early experiences laid the foundation for my future endeavors.

The Turning Point: A Data Science Internship

Fast forward to 2019, when I enrolled in a data science module in college. Over the past six years, no internships were available specifically for this module, leaving us demotivated. However, the fortunes changed unexpectedly when a company from Gurgaon reached out to us with an internship opportunity. I was extremely underconfident and initially decided not to apply, as there were many highly qualified candidates. This was where my mom's advice proved invaluable. She told me, 'tu apply krke to dekh internship milna na milna bhagwan ke hat Mai chd de' (You should apply and see if you get the internship, it's in God's hands). Her encouragement gave me the push I needed to apply, as I knew I had very few chances.

From Underconfidence to Triumph: A Moment of Unexpected Joy

After submitting my resume, I had a technical round interview. I was so sure that I wouldn't get selected, but to my surprise, they selected only seven or eight people, and out of those, four got the internship, while the rest were put on hold. When they announced the list of chosen candidates, they started with A and my name, Anushka, was not at the top, putting me on the edge of doubt. However, to my shock and delight, my name was placed at the bottom of the list. When the announcement of my name was made, I was overjoyed. It was the best feeling ever, and I immediately starred the email notification sent by my college.

Some of my friends claimed that I got the internship because I was a girl and the hiring manager was a guy, but I choose to not take such claims personally. What mattered to me was the opportunity to learn and grow in my field of interest.

Conclusion: The Path to Success is Often Circuitous

From cutting bushes in Chennai to internships in data science, I've learned that success often follows an unexpected path.Whether you're a boy helping surveyors or a girl pursuing data science, your journey is uniquely yours. Embrace every experience, as it shapes you into the person you are today, ready for new challenges and opportunities.

Key Takeaways: 1. The importance of volunteering and hard work in gaining experience. 2. The courage to apply for opportunities, even when you doubt your chances. 3. The unpredictability and joy that come with unexpected successes.