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Stephenson Scholar Eissa Albathigi Brings Data-Driven Thinking to Business and Financial Literacy
Eissa Albathigi
Majors: Data Science and Psychology, General Business Minor
Expected Graduation Year: 2029
Hometown: Richmond, Virginia
As a Stephenson Bicentennial Scholar, Eissa Albathigi sees his selection as both an opportunity and a responsibility: a chance to pursue his goals with the support of the UVA School of Data Science community, and ultimately give back to the people and communities that have invested in him.
A Richmond, Virginia native pursuing degrees in data science and psychology with a minor in general business, Albathigi is interested in helping businesses make stronger, evidence-based decisions while making financial information more accessible and useful to everyday people.
Beyond the classroom, he brings that same commitment to community through student leadership, mentorship, and service across Grounds.
Q: What does being selected as a Stephenson Scholarship recipient mean to you personally, and how do you hope this opportunity will influence your journey at UVA?
Being selected as a Stephenson Scholarship recipient means both opportunity and responsibility. I have the opportunity to learn and achieve my goals knowing that I have the support of the people around me, but also knowing that the end goal is to give back to the people and community that have invested so much in me.
Q: When did you first realize data science was something you wanted to pursue? What sparked that interest?
I became interested in data science as I got older and began making more important decisions in my life. Before making a decision, I always wanted to gather as much information as possible so I could make the best choice. That mindset naturally led me to appreciate the value of data and sparked my interest in data science.
Q: What problem or challenge would you love to use data science to help solve?
I am interested in using data to help businesses make better decisions based on evidence instead of guesswork. I also care about improving financial literacy, and I think data can make financial information easier to understand so people can make more informed decisions about their future.
Q: The School emphasizes responsible data science for the common good. What does that idea mean to you, and how do you hope to put it into practice?
Responsible data science means using data to solve problems while thinking about the people affected by the results. I hope to always consider the bigger picture and make decisions that have a positive impact on others.
Q: What extracurriculars, clubs or sports are you involved in?
Students Who Advance in Technology, Treasurer; Kids Enjoy Exercise Now, Finance Chair; Arab Student Organization, Academic Liaison; Middle Eastern/North African Mentoring Program; Muslim Student Association.
Q: What is a fun fact or two about you?
I can speak Arabic and Spanish.
Learn more about the Stephenson Bicentennial Scholarship program. The Stephenson Experiential Learning Fund (SELF) supports high-impact, hands-on experiences and opportunities for BSDS students including internships, career treks, and micro-internships. For more information, please contact the Office of Student Support at stephensonscholars@virginia.edu.
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