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Finding Your Fit: Getting Involved at UVA as a Future Data Science Major
Your first year at the University of Virginia (UVA) is full of opportunities, but sometimes, it can feel overwhelming. If you are considering applying to the B.S. in Data Science (BSDS), your involvements can help you explore interests, build skills, and discover your path.
“Don’t pick involvements just because you think they will make you ‘look good.’ If you’re not excited about it, you won’t stick with it,” said Helen Bedsole, a BSDS student ambassador. She emphasizes selecting involvements intentionally, leaning into growth, and reflecting on how involvements relate to the BSDS major.
Follow what excites you
It can be tempting to join a club just because you think it will look impressive on a resume. But the truth is, you’ll stand out more if you pursue involvements you genuinely enjoy. When you’re excited about what you’re doing, you’re more likely to stay committed, take on leadership roles, and make a real impact. If you’re not sure what interests you yet, that’s completely fine. College is the perfect time to explore. UVA has thousands of clubs, organizations, and research opportunities, so you can try new things, see what clicks, and move on if something isn’t the right fit.
Step up and stand out
Once you’ve found your niche, lean in. That could mean applying for a leadership position, showing up consistently to meetings, or connecting with older members who can mentor you. These kinds of experiences reflect the curiosity, collaboration, and initiative the BSDS program values.
Build on strengths, try new skills
Think about what you’re already good at and how you might bring that strength into your involvements. Maybe you love problem-solving, so you join a business case competition team. Or perhaps you have always been creative, and you channel that into a CIO focused on design, writing, or performance. On the flip side, ask yourself: Where do I want to grow next? If you’ve never had experience investing, maybe you join an investing club. If you want to improve your public speaking, consider a debate team or storytelling group. Don’t be afraid to try something new. Many clubs welcome beginners.
Diversify your activities
It’s great to join a professional or data-focused group, but your involvements don’t all need to be academic. In fact, it’s better if they aren’t. Consider balancing your time across a few different areas like physical (sports or fitness), creative (arts or performance), intellectual/professional (academic or career-oriented clubs), and social (organizations that help you connect with others).
This variety not only makes your college experience richer, but it also helps you showcase different sides of yourself when you apply to BSDS, such as your leadership, collaboration, creativity, and communication skills.
Bringing It Back to BSDS
There’s no single formula for getting involved at UVA, and there’s no checklist of activities that guarantee admission to the B.S. in Data Science. What matters most is that you follow opportunities that excite you, challenge yourself to grow, and reflect on what you’ve learned along the way. That curiosity and commitment are exactly what make for strong data scientists—and strong BSDS applicants.
If you’re ready to take the next step, we encourage you to explore School of Data Science upcoming events, connect with a student ambassador, or reach out with questions to the admissions team at any time.
