Georgia Davidson Talks Taking Home Bronze and the M.S. in Data Science Program

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M.S. in Data Science Candidate at University of Virginia, Georgia Davidson, discusses taking home a bronze medal in the USA Karate Women’s Elite 61 Kg., what interested her in applying to the M.S. in Data Science program at the UVA School of Data Science, and her training experience at the U.S. Olympic Training Center. 

Q: How did you first get interested in karate?

I started with American Freestyle Karate when I was six years old, inspired by my older brother, John, who started karate first. I was jealous and wanted to join him, so I signed up, too! I earned my black belt seven years later and began to teach classes. My passion for karate took a new turn in 2018 when I was a junior in high school, upon hearing that karate would make its Olympic debut in Tokyo 2020. I had won state and regional-level karate tournaments, and I wanted to take it to the next level. That announcement sparked an intense desire in me to pursue Olympic-style sparring. So, I joined a new dojo and began transitioning into the new style. It was a difficult but rewarding transition, and I have continued training in this style ever since.

Q: You are now the third-ranked woman in the United States after taking home a bronze medal in the USA Karate Women’s Elite 61 Kg. What does this incredible achievement mean to you?

I am infinitely grateful to my coaches, family, team, and friends who have supported me along the way. I had come close to medaling before. For example, at the national championships in Spokane in 2022, I upset the #1 seed in the quarterfinals, only to fall short in the semifinals and then miss making the podium on a tied score. To finally take home a medal this year is an incredible feeling. It’s a testament to the hard work and perseverance I’ve invested, as well as an affirmation of the support I’ve received from those around me.

Q: How do you balance the rigorous training for karate with the demands of the MSDS program?

It can be tricky to balance both school and karate, but I’ve developed a system to manage both effectively. I prioritize my academics while trying to fit in time to stay on track athletically with:

• Weekend training: I visit my dojo on weekends for 1-on-1 sessions with my coach, and I attend our competition team practices on weekday evenings when I can.
• Personal workouts: I practice technique and footwork in the UVA combatives room at Mem Gym and also in the sparring area we have built in my basement at home. I also head to the AFC as much as I can for weightlifting and plyometric exercises for explosiveness.
• Tournaments: I compete in tournaments as frequently as I can. Karate is a timing sport, and my timing will be off if I get rusty. I try to get things done before leaving for a tournament whenever I can. While I have a structured approach, I also remain flexible and ready to adapt my schedule as needed to accommodate any unforeseen challenges, ensuring that I maintain balance without compromising either commitment.

Q: What specific aspects of the UVA School of Data Science program appealed to you when you were making your decision to enroll?

The UVA School of Data Science is fabulous. I did my undergraduate work here at the University. I majored in biology but minored in data science. (This was before the new major in data science was created). As an undergraduate data science minor here, I got to know several faculty members and learn about the School’s offerings, direction, and growth. What impressed me the most was the approachability of faculty and leadership. For example, in the spring of my third year of undergrad, I was seriously thinking about going to grad school for data science. Both Dean Phil Bourne and Professor Brian Wright took time out of their busy schedules to meet with me personally and offer me their advice about grad school. That willingness to meet with just some random undergrad made a huge positive impression on me. It made me think that the School really cares about the success of its students and grads. Also, you can’t beat going to grad school in a beautiful brand-new building!

Q: What are you most looking forward to learning or experiencing during your time in the MSDS program?

I’m excited about preparing for the working world and exploring the many options available to me. I’m passionate about diving deeper into data science and mastering the latest programs and tools used in the field. I look forward to gaining hands-on experience with real-world data challenges that will help me excel in my first job and beyond.

Q: Are there any specific industries or fields within data science that you are particularly passionate about?

I’m particularly passionate about applying data science to areas such as sports medicine, orthopedics, neurotrauma, and sports performance and analytics. My interest stems from my background as an athlete and having experienced sports-related injuries (such as a concussion… karate is tough!), as well as from my undergraduate degree in biology. But at this early stage, I am still wide open. The classes I am taking now and in the fall may well point me in an entirely new direction!

Q: What advice would you give to fellow students who are trying to balance their academic goals with their personal passions?

The number one piece of advice I would give to fellow students is to prioritize your well-being. Your physical and mental health, and your family, always come first. Focus on eating well, exercising, getting enough sleep, and making time for family. And remember to be kind to yourself, doing your best is all anyone can ask. I also would suggest setting goals for yourself and breaking them down into smaller and more manageable steps along the way. Planning ahead and using a calendar to track assignments and important dates can help you avoid last-minute stress and stay organized.

Lastly, don’t hesitate to ask for help if you need it! Whether it’s reaching out to professors for academic support or seeking help from counselors if you’re feeling overwhelmed, remember that these resources are there for you! It truly takes a village, as there is not a single person out there that can do it all on their own.

Q: You were able to train at the U.S. Olympic Training Center last winter, what did you enjoy the most about this experience?

I enjoyed experiencing the incredible atmosphere and energy at the Olympic Training Center. From the moment you step into the complex, you immediately feel the intensity and drive as everyone is passionately striving for their goals of representing Team USA and qualifying for major events.

I was also excited to meet athletes from various sports. I had the chance to connect with several Olympic wrestlers and boxers, which made the experience even more inspiring. The environment and friendships formed there make the place truly special.

(And on a side note, the food there is excellent - highly recommend the sesame ginger chicken and the chocolate milk!)