I’m in a bit of a tough spot and need some honest advice. I have a BSc in IT, but I have a 3-year technical gap since graduating. During this time, I was working in unrelated fields/busy with personal matters, and I feel like I’ve forgotten 90% of my coding and math basics.
I’ve decided to pursue a Master’s in Data Science in Italy (specifically looking at Naples Federico II and Trieste).
My Situation:
Gap: 3 years since my last technical role/study.
Financials: I am explicitly pursuing this because of the Regional Scholarships (DSU/EDISU). I need the scholarship to make this possible.
Current State: Feeling very "rusty." I’m worried that even with a Master's, I might only be at a "beginner level" compared to others.
My Questions:
Has anyone here used an Italian Master's to reset a 3+ year gap? How did you explain it to employers later?
How difficult are the "Bridge Courses" at UniNA or UniTS for someone who is starting from scratch again?
Does the regional scholarship care about a 3-year study gap, or is it strictly based on income (ISEE)?
Am I "cooked" if I enter the Master's at a beginner level?
Any success stories or brutal honesty would be appreciated. Thanks!