#MADEINHEC - Charting her own path in the multifaceted world of data

Although we’re moving in the right direction, women are still underrepresented in the fast-moving world of data. In this interview we asked Khouloud El Alami, a graduate of the Data Science for Business (DSB) Master and now a Data Scientist at Spotify, to reflect on her experience at HEC Paris, her career, her aspirations, and her personal experience as a woman in the data science sector.

Why did you choose this particular Master?

I did a one-year data science program at NYU, but coming from a non-technical background, I realized that this wasn’t enough to gain a deeper understanding of the field and kickstart my career in a quality company. I didn’t want to just blindly apply algorithms - their true value lies in grasping their mathematical foundations and distinguishes a great data scientist from others.

Following a double degree with such renowned Engineering and Business Schools really appealed to me. Being able to delve into the mathematical foundations of data science and machine learning in the first year at Polytechnique, and then being able to apply all the techniques to the real-life issues of companies in the second year at HEC Paris, was the perfect combination.

What were the highlights of the program?

One highlight was the direct collaboration with companies on real-life challenges. We had to work with messy real-life data, which provided us with hands-on experience of the complexities and the realities of being a data scientist. Access to top companies through internship fairs was another key advantage as they enabled many of us to secure competitive internships.

Our program coordinator, Catherine Ly, played a crucial role. Her kindness and attention to our needs made the entire experience smoother. She ensured we made the most of our program, acting as a supportive presence throughout.
Another highlight was the personal interaction with Vincent Fraitot, the Academic Director. Getting to know the mastermind behind the program, coupled with his kindness, enhanced the overall experience.

 
What were the most important things you learned during the program?

I gained invaluable skills from the program, particularly in mathematics and statistics, which remain crucial in my daily work. Beyond coding and machine learning, I developed essential skills in applying data science to business projects like I do at Spotify.

I also learned that data scientists are so much more than programmers – they’re detectives, storytellers, and creators. Soft skills and communication play a crucial yet underestimated role in data science. Being able to understand user needs and translate complex concepts in an accessible way, especially to stakeholders from non-technical backgrounds, is vital.

What is your role at Spotify and how has it evolved?

My role at Spotify is multifaceted and there are no typical days. In many ways I’m more of a decision scientist than a data scientist. A lot of my work revolves around exploring opportunities, supporting innovation, and assessing new product development through experimentation such as AB tests and analyzing the metrics that set us up for success. I also empower other stakeholders by building dashboards that enable them to get their own insights from the data.

I’ve had the opportunity to move through different teams at Spotify and explore different aspects of data science. I currently work in the team that is developing Spotify for TV, desktop, consoles, and smart displays. Being part of a major project that will shape the future of the company is genuinely exciting.

What aspects of your job do you enjoy the most?

Working at Spotify is like being at Harvard. My colleagues are kind, fun, and exceptionally talented. Collaborating with more experienced team members has enabled me to learn best practices directly without having to go through the trial-and-error process. This wealth of knowledge and support is something that I value highly.

I’m a violinist and I’ve always had a deep connection with music. Getting to work on a product that everyone knows and loves, is in many ways a dream come true. I’m not only a Spotify employee, but I’m also an active user of the product. This really helps me to relate to the users and understand their needs.

What is it like being a woman in the world of data?

At Spotify there is a very even balance between men and women data scientists, but I know that women are still underrepresented in the world of data. It depends on the country, but I don’t think women are actively encouraged to pursue their studies and careers in this field. Having role models, like Cassie Kozyrkov, the former Chief Decision Science Officer at Google, who can guide and inspire women to enter data science is crucial.

I think women hesitate to take the leap because they’re worried about finding themselves in a male dominated culture. My advice would be to stop overthinking and just go for it. Preparation is key to avoid feeling overwhelmed and setting yourself up for success.

What was the inspiration for creating your blog?

Having successfully completed my degree and found a job in my dream company, I needed a more personal project. When I started working at Spotify, people from all over the world contacted me to find out about my experience at Spotify and what it’s really like to be a data scientist. I quickly realized that people were asking these questions because the information out there was practically nonexistent.

I wanted to give back to the data science community and help as many people as possible, so I wrote my first article on the top 5 things that every junior data scientist should know, and I’ve continued sharing my experiences ever since. The feedback has been incredibly positive, and the blog has really helped me to find a new sense of purpose. It’s fun, it’s energizing, and it’s been a tremendous source of personal growth. It has also motivated me to launch my own newsletter and YouTube channel.

What are your future aspirations?

I’m very happy at Spotify and I don’t want to leave. Having the freedom to choose the job and learning opportunities that align with the skills I want to develop at specific moments in my career is important for me. There are so many different branches of data science that are popping up, especially with the new wave of AI, which I would love to explore hands-on.

I think at some point I will want to do my own thing, as either a freelancer or by setting up my own business. Whatever happens in the future, I know that I want to have the freedom to choose the projects I want to work on and chart my own path.

How would you sum up your HEC Paris experience?

The reputation of HEC Paris, the hands-on approach, the project work, and the internships are incredibly valuable for aspiring data scientists and give you a strong competitive advantage in the job market.

It was hard work but a lot of fun. You get to meet like-minded, smart, and driven people with similar aspirations who become close friends and who enrich your life in many ways. The HEC Paris network is amazing, and its true value lies in the connections you make, which foster both mutual support and personal growth. 
 

Find out more about the MSc Data Science for Business École Polytechnique - HEC