Catalyzing Change: Alia’s Journey Through Motherhood and Career Switching with FTW

In the ever-evolving landscape of tech careers, Maria Alia Aguila or Alia to us, the recipient of the Above and Beyond Award from GCash x FTW Data Science Scholarship Program Batch 8, stands at the cusp of an inspiring journey. As a devoted mother navigating the complexities of career-switching, Maria personifies resilience and determination.

In this insightful Q&A, Maria shares her unique perspective on the challenges faced by mothers venturing into a career shift and sheds light on the invaluable role that FTW Foundation plays in her ongoing preparation for this transformative leap.

Representing Batch Excellence: The Above and Beyond Award

How does it feel to be chosen to represent your batch?

To be chosen to represent my batch as the recipient of the FTW Above and Beyond Award is a humbling experience. I feel grateful and honored. Amid the challenges posed by the 14-week Data Science scholarship program, the camaraderie we've built is nothing short of inspiring. The simple exchange of experiences, from navigating DataCamp assignments to conquering the Capstone project, has created a really supportive environment.

What truly warms my heart is knowing that I play a role in motivating others to persevere. In these conversations, we reaffirm our shared commitment to this path, reminding each other that we are the chosen 2% of scholarship applicants. It's a collective journey, and together, we reinforce the belief that each one of us has what it takes to become a data scientist.

To all aspiring data scientists, especially those considering a career shift, let this be a testament that the journey is challenging but immensely rewarding. You are not alone, and the support of the community-FTW tribe can make all the difference.

FTW's Distinctive Approach: A Practical Perspective

What do you think sets FTW apart from other programs aimed at helping women?

FTW Foundation distinguishes itself from other programs aimed at supporting women through a multifaceted approach that blends technical and non-technical aspects seamlessly into the curriculum. Unlike traditional classroom setups dominated by lectures, FTW's program takes a practical approach. Data Camp courses serve as a preparatory ground for the weekend face-to-face classes, where collaborative group activities allow batchmates to apply and showcase their learnings, fostering a dynamic environment that helps overcome stage fright and boosts confidence in public speaking.

In addition to the technical components, FTW recognizes the importance of non-technical skills. The curriculum includes sessions on Presentation Skills, emphasizing techniques in speaking, voice command, body movement, and eye contact – critical elements that connect data scientists to their audience and enable effective communication of insights. Data Ethics is also a vital part of the program, instilling a sense of responsibility in data gathering and promoting caution about the impact of data application, with a focus on contributing to the common good.

FTW goes beyond traditional training by incorporating valuable lessons on practical aspects of the job search. Scholars learn how to optimize their LinkedIn profiles, making them visible to headhunters seeking data scientists. Mock interviews with industry executives provide a real-world simulation, offering a glimpse into the expectations and dynamics of the job market. Moreover, the unyielding support from the FTW community, including mentors and alumni (Big Sisters), underscores the program's commitment to ensuring scholars overcome challenges. This collective effort reflects a genuine "paying forward" mentality, showcasing the strength of a community invested in the success and growth of each participant. Inspired by this experience, I am eager to contribute to the foundation's mission by helping identify potential sponsors, recognizing the need for organizations to invest not only in individuals but also in fostering diversity and excellence in the field of Data Science.

Challenges for Mothers in Career Switching: Navigating Time and Sacrifice

Is it difficult for mothers to switch careers?

I must admit that there are challenges for mothers who want to career-switch. First, is time management. Imagine in a day, you have to squeeze in your time for full-time work with overtime work, time for your family like attending to their needs and being present for your kids, doing household chores, quality time with your husband, and time for yourself.

The thing is, time for yourself, is usually the first to be sacrificed during a career change since the decision to change your career starts with oneself.

Becoming a Better Mother through FTW

Do you feel like FTW helped you become a better role model for your children?

I believe that being accepted as one of the FTW scholars helped me become a better role model for my children in the sense that I want to show them that if there is anything you want at any certain point in your life, you can achieve it as long as you put your mind, heart, and giving all the best of what you can do. Truly, nothing is impossible.

I involved my family, including my children, in every step of my FTW Data Science Scholarship Program journey – from the initial application and timed diagnostic exam to the engaging Spotify dataset project, passing the exams, and becoming a scholar. They witnessed my commitment through Zoom and face-to-face classes, daily DataCamp assignments, Tableau for data visualizations, and collaborative meetings for the Capstone Project. Their involvement extended to the final face-to-face presentation on Graduation Day, where I shared this transformative experience with FTW founders, fellow scholars, mentors, and distinguished guests from various companies.

Throughout these activities, I share the experience with my family through stories, recounting our face-to-face classes, discoveries, and learnings. They not only hear the Zoom meetings and discussions with group mates, mentors, and sponsors during Capstone preparation.

I also included them in the presentation and Graduation Day, not only to see the fruit of my hardships but to also see my classmates as they presented their projects – to inspire them that there are others who are striving hard to achieve their dreams and taking courage to speak in front of a public audience, and telling them that they can do it as long as they want and work hard for it. As they say, you have to practice what you preach. I involve my children as much as possible in every step of my journey, to show them the importance of continuous learning no matter your age.

One of the reasons I applied for the scholarship program is the dream and eagerness to provide a better life for my family, especially for the future of the kids. I also want to be more present to support them as they work through their dreams and achieve their own milestones in life. One way I can do this is by upskilling and future-proofing my career through learning and becoming a data scientist.

Alia's Message to Mothers Considering a Career Switch

What message would you give to fellow mothers out there who want to career switch or come back to the workforce?

Choosing a career switch or getting back into the workforce is one of the most important and hardest decisions one can make in her life. It will take more than 100 times of thinking and questioning if you will make the first step and continuously push through this. It's scary especially if you are a mother, you will think "What if it doesn't work?", "What if it is not for me?" and many other things that will make you doubt yourself and of course, the thought of going out of my comfort zone is terrifying.

For my case, before I applied for the scholarship program, I prayed for it – asked for the courage, wisdom, and guidance from the one above for this decision that I am going to make. And I know everything happens for a reason and falls into place in its own time. I also asked for my husband's love, support, and understanding during my career transition, hoping that these steps I’m taking will better our relationship and family.

As a mother, you need to be courageous to make the first step towards your dream to career switch or come back to the workforce. This is the point where you will turn your dreams into reality. Taking courage even if it is scary means you are ready to reveal the best version of yourself. As the famous quote from Oprah Winfrey says, “You get in life what you have the courage to ask for.”

Supporting Women in Achieving Career Transformation at Every Life Stage with FTW Foundation

Maria's journey not only underscores the challenges faced by mothers striving for a career switch but also highlights the indispensable support and guidance offered by FTW Foundation. As we celebrate Maria's accomplishments and her role as an inspiring figure for fellow mothers, FTW remains committed to empowering women in data science.Alia's story is a beacon of hope for those contemplating a similar path— Join FTW in championing diversity, resilience, and the pursuit of knowledge as we shape the future of tech, one empowered woman at a time.

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