Image
From Concepts to Code: Inspiring the Next Generation of Data Scientists
Adam Tashman, an associate professor of data science at the University of Virginia's School of Data Science, was recently featured on CBS19 to promote his new book, "From Concepts to Code: Introduction to Data Science." We spoke with Tashman about his news feature, his book signing at the University Bookstore, and advice that he would give to aspiring data scientists.
Q: From having a book signing on Grounds to discussing your recently published book, From Concepts to Code on CBS19, how has it felt getting to see so much excitement around your new book?
A: I've really appreciated access to these platforms to spread the word about my book and meet some of my fans! At the book signing, there were students considering further study in data science, and I could see the excitement building.
Q: The field of data science is vast and ever-evolving, your book opens a door into an accessible and approachable world of data science. Can you tell us why it was important to you to write a book that is so inclusive to a wide variety of people?
A: There's a massive divide that is growing in our society, where a few are enriched by the majority. It's sustainable. Meanwhile, the typical K-12 curriculum can do a lot more to help students prepare for careers of today and tomorrow. These careers will require skill in working across disciplines to solve important problems with data.
Students are already learning building blocks like math and statistics. However, the skills are typically learned in a vacuum, which removed the context and excitement from process. As a result, many students find the subjects dry and intimidating, and the run from them. I wrote my book to get people excited about solving the hard problems of the future. I believe that with the right motivation, we can get more people willing to learn the skills necessary to meet the challenges of the future. As a side effect, people will develop satisfying careers and lives.
Q: What is one thing you hope that people will take away from your book?
A: Data science can be broadly impactful, but it requires much more than technical skill. It also requires careful planning, effective communication, and critical review to ensure things are working properly.
Q: What was your writing experience like for From Concepts to Code? Did anything unexpected or interesting happen during this process that has impacted the way you think or even teach data science currently?
A: I loved writing every morning and recording my thoughts. The process brought together different aspects and learnings acquired over my career. The walk down memory lane was very enjoyable, as it reminded me of important projects and people who influenced my thinking and values. The book is now an opportunity for me to share this with others.
Q: If you could give any advice to aspiring data scientists, what would you say?
A: Data science provides skills that are broadly useful. At the same time, after we filter out the hype, the daily work can be challenging, with ups and downs — like many endeavors. Try to find applications that are personally engaging and meaningful. This will keep you going. A side effect is that others will notice your enthusiasm, which will elevate the team and you personally.
Image
Adam Tashman is an associate professor of data science and former director of the Online M.S. in Data Science Program. Courses taught include big data systems, programming for data science, R programming, mathematical finance, actuarial statistics, probability and statistics, and survival analysis.
Research interests include natural language processing, machine learning, deep learning, computer vision, biomedical informatics, and quantitative finance.
Prior to joining the School of Data Science faculty in 2021, Tashman was a Visiting Lecturer at the University of Virginia and Visiting Associate Professor at the University of California, Santa Barbara. Tashman’s extensive industry experience includes Director of Data Science and Artificial Intelligence with CliniComp, VP and Head of Data Science for Carpe Data, and Head of Data Science for FinMason. He also served as Senior Risk Consultant with Citizens Financial Group, Biostatistical Consultant with Fresenius Medical Care, VP and Senior Quantitative Analyst for the Royal Bank of Scotland, Statistical Consultant with Yahoo!, and VP of Quantitative Research with Citi.
Tashman holds a Ph.D. and M.S. in Applied Mathematics and Statistics from Stony Brook University, an M.A. in Mathematics and Finance from Columbia University, and a B.A. in Mathematics from the University of Virginia.
