This page is specifically for high school and younger students who may be considering a career in research and analytics. In addition to the written information there is a video linked at the bottom of the page that discusses a lot of these same topics.
Before we begin, let me say “awesome for you!” I commend your thinking ahead and your ambition to join this profession.
Research and analytics is a great profession that continues to grow because it is all about solving problems, finding answers, and finding ways to make things better or more efficient. Because of this continuous onslaught of challenges, the profession is never boring.
People who enjoy this profession tend to be intelligent and enjoy solving problems.
Analytics can include a combination of math, coding, problem solving, rational thinking, and even psychology and sociology skills. While this diversity of skills can seem daunting, it also opens the doors so that people with a variety of interests can make a valuable contribution to the profession.
One great aspect of this profession is that it can apply to almost every area of life. If you have an interest in medicine, there is a role for research and analytics. If you have an interest in the economy or the stock market, there is a role for research and analytics. If you have an interest in owning a store, sports, cars, exercise, or just about anything else in life, there is an opportunity for research and analytics to answer questions or make improvements.
Still, if all of these diverse skills are involved then you may wonder where you should focus your efforts.
Successful analysts typically have strong skills in coding (e.g., python, R, etc.), strong statistical knowledge (e.g., modeling, regression, correlation, segmentation, etc.), and writing.
Research Study Coordinators typically have strong skills in writing, particularly persuasive writing, which is beneficial for explaining the purpose of research and recruiting participants. They also often have strong skills working with a variety of software programs including the proprietary software used for conducting surveys or hosting online focus groups. They can also benefit from knowledge of secondary data sets including the various forms of Census data.
If you are choosing HS classes, you should consider any classes that help you write better, understand people (sociology, psychology, social studies), perform mathematics (particularly statistics), or work with computer programming.
If you are choosing a college major and you want to be in analytics you should consider majors in research, or economics. A lot of people who are in research and analytics, but not in the analyst role choose majors of psychology or sociology.
Not too long ago, we partnered with the the KY Chamber of Commerce for their Bus to Business program. They interviewed myself, one of my Analysts, and my Research Study Coordinator. If you are a high school student, you should check out the video for yourself.