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MSDS Residential Student Ambassadors
2024-2025 Admissions Ambassadors
Meet the Admissions Ambassadors of the M.S. in Data Science Residential program. They represent their class and hail from a variety of backgrounds, experiences and interests.
Feel free to email a Ambassador directly with questions about the master's program and graduate student life. You can also schedule time with any Ambassador by phone or Teams – or meet them in person at an Ambassador-led tour of the school.
Christine George
(they/them)
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Hometown: Pleasant Hill, CA
Undergraduate Institution: Virginia Commonwealth University
Major: Statistics and Political Science
What made you choose UVA for your master's in data science?
I chose to do my master’s in data science at UVA because I think the curriculum is very well-rounded with courses in both computing and statistics, and I liked the idea of a cohort system. I also like the SDS’s interdisciplinary perspective, it is a nice change of pace from the typical humanities versus STEM environment. Aside from academics, I also wanted to live somewhere with mountains and green space.
What are your research/career interests?
I recently wrapped up my internship with Oak Ridge National Laboratory in Oak Ridge, Tennessee. I spent a year researching nuclear nonproliferation and applying my skills in both political science and statistical data science. I really enjoyed my time there and would like to work at the lab full-time, although I am also open to other opportunities.
I think it would be really cool to go into a career where I can combine my passion for music and data science. Regardless, I want to start my own data-driven business after working for the federal government or in the industry for a while.
What are you involved in outside the class?
During my free time, I enjoy running, going to concerts, yoga, collecting CDs/DVDs/vinyl records, playing video games, karaoke, and chilling out at home with my cat, Quinn.
Always Listening To: Alternative rock and metal!
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Vishwanath Guruvayur (he/him)
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Hometown: Mumbai, India
Undergraduate Institution: BITS Pilani
Major: Mechanical Engineering Major and Data Science Minor
What made you choose UVA for your master's in data science?
I chose UVA’s MSDS because of the great comprehensive nature of the curriculum. The courses cover everything from Programming and Git basics to Statistical Modelling to Deep Learning and AI techniques in just 11 months. The professional depth and expertise gained in the courses combined with a specific focus on Ethics in Big Data will really prepare us to become leaders ready to take on significant challenges in the Data & AI industry with integrity and innovation.
What are your research/career interests?
I am eager to broaden my knowledge and explore the application of Data Science in various fields such as Finance, Technology, Medicine, Sports, etc. I am particularly passionate about incorporating Data Science and Artificial Intelligence with Mechanical Engineering i.e. Robotics, a field that is soon going to transform our lifestyle in profound ways!
What are you involved in outside the class?
Outside of class, I have several hobbies that I’m passionate about. I love singing, mostly Indian music. I recently got a new guitar, hoping to learn to play some songs that I can sing along to this year. I enjoy watching cricket (Go India!) and playing board games and outdoor games with friends.
Always Listening To: Indian film music in multiple languages – Hindi, Tamil, Malayalam, and Telugu – and I also enjoy English pop music, especially artists like Charlie Puth, Michael Bublé, and Bruno Mars.
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Courtney Hodge
(she/her)
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Hometown: Newport News, VA
Undergraduate Institution: Baylor University
Major: Data Science
What made you choose UVA for your master's in data science?
I chose UVA because of the amazing opportunities the MSDS residential program had to offer. The 11-month program was definitely a key factor in my decision, but the diverse faculty in the School of Data Science was what convinced me to accept. The professors here are not only experts in their fields, but they also bring a wealth of real-world experience to the school that I found extremely valuable. Getting to know them and their research was a must!
I also love that UVA is close to Washington, D.C., which is perfect since I’ve always wanted to work in the federal government. I am excited about the career prospects in Washington, D.C. and the strong network that UVA has established in the nation’s capital.
What are your research/career interests?
My career interests are in geospatial data science and environmental data science. I have some experience with the two as an undergraduate researcher at Baylor University in the Statistics and Computer Science Departments. I recently grew an interest in sports analytics and would like to explore this career interest further while at UVA.
What are you involved in outside of class?
In undergrad, I was a clarinetist for the Baylor University Courtside Players which was the men and women’s basketball pep band for all their home games. I hope to audition for UVA’s pep band in the spring to carry on my love for music and the sport. I also love traveling and exploring new states, so I’ll be riding the Amtrak to New England during academic holidays.
Always Listening To: 70s classics – Elton John, Eagles, Chicago, and Steve Miller Band are some of my favorite artists/groups. My music taste comes from my parents, so that’s why it’s so good!
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Ashley Huang (she/her)
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Hometown: Bristow, VA
Undergraduate Institution: University of Virginia
Major: Cognitive Science
What made you choose UVA for your master's in data science?
I chose the UVA master's in data science because I liked the multi-disciplinary aspect of learning data science and seeing the impact on the world around us! Knowing the complete scope and implications of the data and its subsequent analysis results in a better understanding of the problems we try to tackle.
Additionally, the shorter length of the program was another positive aspect, since we can quickly join the workforce. Finally, the cohort setup of the program was another huge positive aspect. The tight-knit community is a crucial aspect of learning, and the connections and friendships the MSDS helps foster will continue even after our program.
What are your research/career interests?
My research/career interests are in machine learning and data ethics. I took some classes in machine learning as a data science minor. I liked the consideration and thought, as well as the interpretation of the results, that goes into machine learning algorithms.
Data ethics is an intriguing, yet not as highlighted, aspect of data to learn since it is very applicable and present in the modern day. In the future, I want to explore the applications of machine learning in the medical field, hopefully tying it back to my undergraduate major in cognitive science.
What are you involved in outside the class?
Outside of class, I’m involved with UVA Ballroom Club and hanging out with friends. I was introduced to ballroom dancing during my undergraduate, and I’m loving it! I also love to try new foods and travel!
Always Eating: Chips (and basically any junk food)
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Mercedes Mora-Figueroa
de Liñán (she/her)
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Hometown: Madrid, Spain
Undergraduate Institution: Universidad Carlos III in Madrid
Major: Biomedical Engineering
What made you choose UVA for your master's in data science?
I chose UVA for my master's in data science due to several factors. Some of my key considerations were studying on the East Coast of the United States to stay relatively close to Spain, and a short-term program that allowed me to start my career sooner.
Among all East Coast universities, UVA stood out for its esteemed reputation in higher education and research opportunities. But the main reason I chose the School of Data Science at UVA was its interdisciplinary curriculum and its hands-on learning opportunities such as the Capstone project. This program ensures students get a well-rounded education across various data science disciplines, equipping them with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, both essential for succeeding in a professional settings.
What are your research/career interests?
One of my research interests is controlled experimentation, especially in the field of launching product features and analyzing metrics data to determine their impact on the business. This interest was sparked during my time at Microsoft, where I was mentored by a Data Scientist on the Bing Analytics team. I am fascinated by the integration of statistics, data analysis, and machine learning to create robust business cases through these experiments.
Additionally, I recently participated in a datathon to relate different demographics to a severe form of breast cancer. This experience also sparked my interest in the application of data science in the medical industry where it is particularly important to effectively navigate large datasets.
What are you involved in outside of class?
Outside of class, I have many hobbies: I love dancing, particularly flamenco. I'm a total foodie! I am always trying new restaurants and dishes, Peruvian and Korean cuisines being my top picks. Reading is my nightly ritual. I love watching soccer, I am a Real Madrid fan. I also love traveling (I try to visit at least one new country every year), playing board games with friends, and buying vintage clothes!
Always Listening To: The Beatles or a musical
Currently Reading: “Thinking Fast and Slow” by Daniel Kahneman
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Kurt Samuels (he/him)
Hometown: Northern Virginia (NoVA)
Undergraduate Institution: University of Virginia
Major: Cognitive Science - Psychology
What made you choose UVA for your master's in data science?
I chose the School of Data Science at the University of Virginia because of the 11-month format of the master’s program, the chance to complete a capstone project, the faculty’s diverse backgrounds, and their enthusiasm for the course material. I enjoyed my time in undergrad so much I needed another year in Cville!
What are your research/career interests?
I am interested in the intersection of psychology and data science. As an undergraduate I was part of Loncke’s Applied Psycholinguistics Lab where I analyzed the data for our vocal similarities of siblings study. I like learning about how data can be used to better understand people and their decisions. I am also really interested in sports data and analytics. I would love a career that combines my passions for data, sports, and psychology.
What are you involved in outside of class?
Outside of class, I love going to North Grounds Rec. I play club and intramural basketball. The Super Smash Bros club at UVA is great if you like competing in tournaments or just casually playing Smash with friends.
I am always watching the NBA, Formula 1, and the English Premier League. You will probably see me around grounds wearing Knicks gear or a soccer jersey. I love movies, TV shows, and anime, so let me know if you have any good recommendations! My current favorite shows are The Bear, The Boys and Invincible.
Always Watching: Parks & Rec
Always Eating: Chocolate
Always Listening To: Don Toliver
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Trenton Slocum
(he/him)
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Hometown: Edmonds, WA
Undergraduate Institution: Pepperdine University
Major: Economics
What made you choose UVA for your master's in data science?
Having spent my entire life on the West Coast, I decided it was time to expand eastward a little bit. I found UVA's program almost immediately. After talking to some of the wonderful teachers, researching the extensive opportunities and resources available, and visiting Charlottesville and the brand-new data science building, I decided that UVA would be the perfect place to get my master's in data science.
What are your research/career interests?
I am open to gaining experience in many different fields of data science. I have a deep love for cars, specifically ones with internal combustion engines. I think it would be awesome to have the opportunity to apply the skills I learn in this program to the data used in the development of alternative/renewable fuel sources to keep those engines alive. My absolute dream would be to join a Formula 1 team and travel the world with them to aid in handling the data during race weekends.
What are you involved in outside of class?
I love to spend time outdoors. Being new to Charlottesville, I can’t wait to explore the area by walking all over town and taking my 4runner to find offroad trails, fishing spots, beautiful views, and much more. In the Winter, I will spend as much time as I possibly can skiing. Additionally, I like playing the guitar, going to the gym, and doing my best not to overcook my steak as I try to master the grill.
Always Listening To: 90s Seattle Grunge – Alice in Chains, Pearl Jam, and Soundgarden are on constant loop wherever I go.
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Jonathan Swap (he/him)
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Hometown: Charlottesville, VA
Undergraduate Institution: University of Virginia
Major: Environmental Science Major with a Leadership Minor from McIntire School of Commerce
What made you choose UVA for your master's in data science?
I chose UVA’s MSDS program because of the cutting-edge education, faculty, and staff; 11-month format of the masters; and the exposure to learning opportunities and experience with a diverse group of students to find out which areas and topics in data science intrigue me. I wanted to continue my education and the UVA MSDS’s commitment to ethical and responsible data science, which is first among data science programs, really attracted me.
What are your research/career interests?
I am interested in gaining experience in many different fields/areas to better offer a robust and thorough background. I am ultimately hoping to learn more about how data science can be used to inform decision-making, strategy, and everyday operations in federal departments or any company that has a good organizational culture. I hope to leverage my unique combination of education in environmental science, leadership, and data science to get out there and learn by doing.
What are you involved in outside of class?
I am involved with the MSDS Ambassadors program, UVA Honor, MSDS intramural team sports (volleyball and pickleball), Echols Scholars Program advisory committee member, Echols DEI and Outreach internship, and unsung people (a kindness journalism CIO).
Currently Reading: Mark of Athena by Rick Riordan (and the rest of the Heroes of Olympus Series)
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Disha Trivedi (she/her)
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Hometown: Richmond, VA
Undergraduate Institution: Virginia Commonwealth University
Major: Bioinformatics
What made you choose UVA for your master's in data science? I chose UVA for my master's because of their unwavering dedication to both the program and its students. Their cutting-edge curriculum, which includes everything from machine learning to deep learning, provides all the essential knowledge and skills needed to excel as a data scientist.
The extensive variety of electives further fueled my excitement to join this program. Moreover, every staff member and student I met from the School of Data Science before applying was exceptionally welcoming and kind, reinforcing my desire to be part of such an inspiring community!
What are your research/career interests?
Currently, I am interning at a startup focused on women's health, where we collect and curate data on various companies within this sector to build a comprehensive database. This experience has ignited my passion for leveraging technology to advance health, particularly women's health.
Additionally, my interests extend beyond health into marketing. In the startup environment, understanding consumer behavior and market analytics is crucial for successfully promoting a company and its products. Therefore, I am particularly interested in using predictive analytics and models to forecast future market trends for companies.
What are you involved in outside of class?
I have a wide range of hobbies outside of class! As a social person, I'm always up for a good activity. I love hiking, trying out new restaurants, singing karaoke, or simply having casual chats with friends. Being around people and engaging in activities together is my main hobby. Additionally, I practice Bharatanatyam, a classical Indian dance, and I'm also learning to play the guitar.
From a professional perspective, I currently intern for a women's health company as a database maintenance intern, which has further fueled my passion for combining technology and health to make a positive impact.
Currently Reading: Any romance novel (lol)
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Hannah Valenty
(she/her)
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Hometown: Carnegie, PA
Undergraduate Institution: Duquesne University
Major: Physics
What made you choose UVA for your master's in data science?
I was drawn to UVA’s master’s program initially by the 11-month timeframe. The quick transition from my undergraduate studies helped me keep the academic momentum rolling and then eventually jump into the workforce efficiently.
I also greatly appreciated the School of Data Science’s openness to prospective students of all academic backgrounds. I greatly enjoyed my time as a physics major but am very happy to use the skills I have gained to pivot into the world of data science.
What are your research/career interests?
I am interested in government intelligence and environmental departments, as well as leveraging data for non-profit or community-based organizations. Also, I think it would be the coolest to be a data scientist for the Pittsburgh Pirates.
What are you involved in outside of class?
As a newbie to the Charlottesville area, I am excited to explore the beautiful nature by running or biking the trails. I hope to make use of the many libraries on Grounds to relax and read books I’ve been waiting to read this summer. I’ll have to make good use of the warm weather here and swim more too!
Always Eating: Peanut butter & jelly sandwiches
2023-2024 Admissions Ambassadors
Meet the 2023-2024 Admissions Ambassadors of the M.S. in Data Science Residential program. They represent their class and hail from a variety of backgrounds, experiences and interests. Feel free to email a student ambassador directly with questions about the master's program and graduate student life, or schedule a time to speak with them by phone or Zoom.
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As current students in the MSDS Residential Program, we are here to help you and share our perspectives.
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Arnav Boppudi (he/him)
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Hometown: Chantilly, VA
Undergrad Institution: University of Virginia
Major: Sociology
What has been your favorite class?
My favorite class has been the Practice and Application of Data Science with Professor Kropko. Professor Kropko has been such a great teacher, continuing to ignite my passion for Data Science through his passion for it.
What are your research/career interests?
I wish to apply my skills in the realm of sports. The prospect of delving into sports analytics seems extremely interesting to me. As data science continues to be recognized as a key contributor to a team or player's competitive success, I aspire to be a part of the significant societal and cultural relationship that exists between sports and analytics.
What made you choose UVA for your master's in data science?
I chose UVA for my MSDS because I completed my undergraduate program here and formed friendships with several members from past cohorts who absolutely loved their experience. As my interest in data science continued to grow, I couldn't think of a better place to meet my learning needs than the MSDS Residential program here in Charlottesville.
What is a fun fact about you?
I really enjoy playing tennis.
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David Diaz (he/him)
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Hometown: San Diego, CA
Undergrad Institution: Georgetown University
Major: Physics
Do you have previous work experience?
I worked in the granite countertop business with my dad during my gap year last year, interacting with various clientele throughout the San Diego region and learning about business systems and management.
What upcoming class are you excited about?
I am looking forward to taking Ethics of Big Data this Fall.
What are your research/career interests?
Given my fascination for business, as well as my love for physics, my career interests lie in the intersection of business and technology. I want to leverage the skills I learn in this program to help derive ethical solutions for the world’s current pressing problems in this sector, ultimately helping lead positive innovation.
What made you choose UVA for your master's in data science?
I chose UVA due to its forward-focused curriculum, its mission statement, and its 11-month program length.
What is a fun fact about you?
I studied abroad in Scotland for a semester!
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Quinn Glovier (she/her)
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Hometown: Virginia Beach, VA
Undergraduate Institution: University of Virginia
Major: Political Theory
What class are you looking forward to taking?
I am looking forward the most to taking any class having to do with data visualization! I love customizing graphs with different colors, shapes, and other formatting options to convey a message depending on the task.
What are your research/career interests?
I am interested in how data science impacts fashion and other creative industries and hope to have a career in a creative or marketing field.
What made you choose UVA for your MSDS?
I chose UVA because of the amazing faculty, small class size, and plethora of student resources provided by the School of Data Science. The faculty and staff go above and beyond to not only welcome students but to make them feel wanted and supported throughout the enrollment process.
What is a fun fact about you?
I learned to ski when I was 5 years old and try to go skiing at least once every year!
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Chaitali Harge (she/her)
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Hometown: Mumbai, India
Undergraduate Institution: University of Mumbai, India
Major: Statistics
Do you have previous work experience?
I worked as a vehicle certification and regulation specialist at Mitsubishi Motors, Okazaki, Japan for 4 years.
What has been your favorite class in the program so far and what class are you looking forward to?
I liked Programming for Data Science (DS 5100) in the Summer term. Since I am from non-programming background, this class helped me pick up the pace in the fundamentals of programming. In the upcoming terms, I am looking forward to taking Bayesian Machine Learning (DS 6040) and Deep Learning (DS 6050).
What are your research/career interests?
With data science training, I am planning to progress my career in the field of vehicle automation. However, looking at the adoption of Data Science in almost every field and its impact on business and society, I am keeping my options open for other fields as well.
What made you choose UVA for your MSDS?
UVA offers an accelerated M.S. in Data Science without any compromise in the curriculum. This was perfect for me to take a short break from work and upgrade my career.
What is a fun fact about you?
I can speak Japanese fluently and I have traveled to 25 prefectures in Japan.
Rachel Holman (she/her)
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Hometown: Memphis, TN
Undergrad Institution: Miami University in Ohio
Major: Data Science and Statistics
What has been your favorite class?
My favorite class has been Practice and Application of Data Science with Professor Kropko!
What are your research/career interests?
I am interested in data visualization and spatial analytics, but I know there are so many applications of data science I haven’t explored yet so I’m keeping my career options very open.
What made you choose UVA for your master's in data science?
This program allows me to explore many avenues of data science without having to specialize in only one. I’m also excited that there are so many career opportunities in this area!
What is a fun fact about you?
I try to pick up a new hobby during every break from school. Right now, when I’m not in class you’ll find me either rock climbing, painting, baking, hiking, making pottery, or going to the farmer’s market.
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Noah McIntire (he/him)
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Hometown: Harrisonburg, VA
Undergraduate Institution: University of Virginia
Major: Computer Science
Do you have previous work experience?
I was a Big Data Intern at Jewelry Television in Knoxville, Tennessee for the summer between my third and fourth year. I was able to learn a lot about data pipelines and data visualizations on a large scale, and using big data to gain more insights into business practices.
What class are you looking forward to?
I'm looking forward to DS 6050: Deep Learning. I'm excited to learn more about neural networks, the tools needed to complete them, and some of their applications.
What are your research/career interests?
I'm interested in working with machine learning, neural networks, and linear models. I'd love to end up using these tools within the data science field in my career, especially if it could be done within the field of sustainability!
What made you choose UVA for your MSDS?
I chose UVA for my master's in data science because I already had a sense of how amazing the faculty is from my time as an undergrad here at UVA. I also knew that the curriculum was great and the cohort style learning was right for me.
What is a fun fact about you?
I can cook a mean Paella - feel free to ask me about my family's food truck that makes it!
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Michael Vaden (he/him)
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Hometown: Newport Beach, CA
Undergraduate Institution: University of Virginia
Major: Computer Science with a Minor in Data Science
Do you have previous work experience?
I spent the summer of 2022 as a product management intern, where I gained exposure to an agile environment and worked cross-functionally with many stakeholders. Since, I’ve been working as a data science research assistant at the UVA Biocomplexity Institute. Specifically, I worked a lot with census data to analyze food insecurity in Virginia and created many data pipelines and visualizations.
What class has been your favorite?
It is hard to choose one favorite class from all of the great ones we have had so far, but I really enjoyed the Practice and Application of Data Science course with Professor Kropko. In this course, we got to survey a wide range of topics such as database design, web scraping, data frame manipulation, and dashboard creation.
What are your research/career interests?
I am incredibly interested in sports (particularly the NFL), and would love the opportunity to do analytics for a professional team. Additionally, I see a future for myself in the world of tech working as a product manager, data scientist, or software engineer to inspire change and contribute to meaningful products.
What made you choose UVA for your MSDS?
I completed my undergraduate degree at UVA, and felt as though I missed a year of college due to COVID. I was not ready to leave Charlottesville behind and decided that I had more to contribute to this wonderful community. The UVA MSDS program presented the perfect blend of incredible opportunity and familiarity.
What is a fun fact about you?
Everybody in my immediate family is left-handed!
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Elisabeth Waldron (she/her)
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Hometown: Richmond, VA
Undergraduate Institution:
Randolph-Macon College
Major: Accounting
What class are you looking forward to taking?
I am looking forward to taking SYS 6023: Cognitive Systems Engineering because I am interested in how the human brain works, and what influences our thoughts and actions. I believe learning these topics will help us address significant issues that we are facing today concerning mental health and equality.
What are your research/career interests?
I would like to research and have a career in environmental, social, and economic sustainability. I believe studying sustainability is an important concern for the future state of the world. Eventually, I would like to start a career in politics to improve these issues in the United States and worldwide.
What made you choose UVA for your master's in data science?
There were multiple reasons why I felt UVA was the right school out of my choices: Charlottesville is an amazing town to live in (everything is within walking distance). The connections that I made prior to even starting: a previous Admissions Ambassador, Bella Samper, and the very patient and understanding Sadie Royal Collins, Director of Academic Operations & Admissions. Lastly, UVA is one of the top-ranking public institutions in the country, and hearing testimonies of what the MSDS program offered, I believed that I would receive an exceptional education.
What is a fun fact about you?
I have two cats. An orange tabby named Minion, who will be ten in April 2024 and I have had him since I was fourteen. And my second cat’s name is Woody. He is a tuxedo cat and is a little over one.
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Grace Zhang (she/her)
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Hometown: Kunming, China
Undergraduate Institution: The University of Texas at Austin
Major: Chemistry
What has been your favorite class so far and what class are you looking forward to?
Linear models so far is my favorite class, and I’m looking forward tolearning more about predictive modeling from different classes.
What are your research/career interests?
I’m interested in applying cutting-edge data science and data analytics techniques to solve problems in the healthcare field.
What made you choose UVA for your MSDS?
I wanted to explore a new place while I’m pursuing a master’s degree indata science.
What is a fun fact about you?
I have never tired of having avocado toast for breakfast!
Tae Yoon Kim
Hometown: Seoul, South Korea
Undergrad institution: Rice University
Major: Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering
What has been your favorite class in the program so far?
Practice and Application of Data Science with Professor Jonathan Kropko
What are your research/career interests?
Tech – Product Management
What made you choose UVA for your master's in data science?
I am part of the MBA/MSDS dual-degree program and am also enrolled at the Darden School of Business. The ability to complete both degrees without having to attend an additional year is an attractive proposition to any career-oriented individual.
What is a fun fact about you?
I lived in Hong Kong, Malaysia, Japan, and South Korea while growing up.
2022-2023 Admissions Ambassadors
Meet the 2022-2023 Admissions Ambassadors of the M.S. in Data Science, Residential program. They represent their class and hail from a variety of backgrounds, experiences and interests. Feel free to email a student ambassador directly with questions about the master's program and graduate student life, or schedule a time to speak with them by phone or Zoom.
Jose Diaz-Rivera
Hometown: San Juan, Puerto Rico
Undergraduate Institution: University of Virginia
Major: Politics, Foreign Affairs
What has been your favorite class in the program so far?
Professor Alvarado's Programming for Data Science course was an excellent introduction to programming with Python and very beginner-friendly, especially for someone like me whose undergraduate major was in non-technical. I am very excited to learn more about machine learning in the fall and deep learning in the spring!
What are your research/career interests?
In terms of research interests, I want to learn more about machine learning and deep learning applications. In regard to career interests, I am exploring opportunities for social applications of data science and how they might better serve marginalized communities.
What made you choose UVA for your master's in data science?
The University of Virginia has always been my dream school since I was in high school. When I decided that I wanted to study data science, it seemed too good to be true that UVA offered a master’s degree in the School of Data Science. Moreover, the cohort model and year-long project were both highly appealing to me for their emphasis on a tight-knit community and hands-on learning.
What is a fun fact about you?
I used to be very active in theater when I wanted to act and attend arts school. Although I am no longer pursuing theater, on the plus side, it has made me a better public speaker!
Minah Kim
Hometown: Hanam, South Korea
Undergrad institution: Macalester College
Major: Psychology
Do you have previous work experience?
I was a research fellow at the Yale Child Study Center and Seattle Children's Research Institute.
What has been your favorite class in the program so far?It's a three-way tie between Linear Models for Data Science, Practice and Application of Data Science, and Programming for Data Science.
What are your research/career interests?
I am currently also a Ph.D. student in the UVA Department of Psychology and am interested in the biological underpinnings of social behavior and well-being.
What made you choose UVA for your master's in data science?
UVA has am MSDS/GSAS-PhD Fellowship that lets doctoral students in the Graduate School of Arts & Sciences supplement their learning with data science training.
What is a fun fact about you?
I love to pen pal as a way to keep in touch with people and own a solid collection of stationary paper.
Tae Yoon Kim
Hometown: Seoul, South Korea
Undergrad institution: Rice University
Major: Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering
What has been your favorite class in the program so far?
Practice and Application of Data Science with Professor Jonathan Kropko
What are your research/career interests?
Tech – Product Management
What made you choose UVA for your master's in data science?
I am part of the MBA/MSDS dual-degree program and am also enrolled at the Darden School of Business. The ability to complete both degrees without having to attend an additional year is an attractive proposition to any career-oriented individual.
What is a fun fact about you?
I lived in Hong Kong, Malaysia, Japan, and South Korea while growing up.
Tatev Kyosababyan
Hometown: Gyumri, Armenia
Undergraduate Institution: American University of Armenia
Major: Computer Science
Do you have previous work experience?
I worked in software development and data analytics.
What has been your favorite class in the program so far?
Programming for Data Science
What are your research/career interests?
I am still exploring and keeping my options open.
What made you choose UVA for your master's in data science?
The length of the program and the integrated curriculum were selling points, as well as the fact that the program was in its own School of Data Science. I also spent a year of high school in Virginia as an exchange student so UVA was my natural go-to.
What is a fun fact about you?
I was once the director of a Bollywood-style short film.
Chelsea Le Sage
Hometown: Reston, Virginia
Undergraduate Institution: James Madison University
Major: Computer Science
Do you have previous work experience?
I worked for two years as a frontend software developer.
What class are you looking forward to the most?
I hope to take Advanced Use of Geographical Information Systems in the spring semester as an elective.
What are your research/career interests?
I'm interested in geographic information systems and data visualization but looking forward to exploring more facets of data science throughout the program!
What made you choose UVA for your master's in data science?
The beautiful campus, caring faculty, and all the fun things to do in Charlottesville!
What is a fun fact about you? I used to volunteer at an animal sanctuary with rescue cows, horses, chickens, and goats before starting the program.
Anneda Rong
Hometown: Midlothian, Virginia
Undergraduate Institution: University of Virginia
Major: Statistics with a Biostatistics Concentration
Do you have previous work experience?
I worked at the Global Infectious Diseases Institute as a student researcher.
What has been your favorite class in the program so far?
My favorite class so far would have to be Linear Models because I’ve enjoyed learning how to perform hypothesis testing and make predictions with a high level of confidence. It feels like looking into the future and performing magic, if you ask me. The class that I am most excited for is definitely the Capstone course because we’ll be tasked to solve real-world problems that don’t necessarily have a “right” answer and we’ll have the opportunity to pioneer a solution.
What are your research/career interests?
I am keeping my mind open to the many fields that data science is integrated into and also to any cool opportunities that may come my way. However, I do think I would really enjoy being a data scientist in healthcare.
What made you choose UVA for your master's in data science?
UVA is close to home so logistically it made sense for me. Most importantly though, I had the amazing opportunity to experience first hand UVA as an undergrad. UVA is determined to serve a purpose in every sector, so it was honestly a very simple decision for me.
What is a fun fact about you?
I love to cook– so much that I actually sometimes pretend to have my own cooking show (with no audience, unfortunately) and will challenge myself to use random ingredients like on Chopped.
Bella Samper
Hometown: Spring, Texas
Undergraduate Institution: Randolph-Macon College
Major: Psychology with a minor in Mathematics
Do you have previous work experience?
I worked at Stats Perform as a data insights intern and also worked at Randolph-Macon College for a year as an Annual Giving and Athletic Fundraising Specialist.
What class are you looking forward to the most?
We haven't taken very many classes yet, but I am very excited for the spring to take the Data Visualization elective.
What are your research/career interests?
I would like to go into Sport Analytics after graduating.
What made you choose UVA for your master's in data science?
I chose UVA's M.S. in Data Science because from the beginning, when I spoke to faculty, staff, and students, I could tell they wanted their students to succeed. I was very impressed with all of the resources available to me. My favorite part is the small cohort style and emphasis on collaboration. It really gives you an opportunity to get to know your other classmates and get real world experience in working with people for a common goal.
What is a fun fact about you?
I played lacrosse in college.
Jake Weinberg
Hometown: Blue Bell, Pennsylvania
Undergraduate Institution:University of Virginia
Major:Commerce
Do you have previous work experience?
I spent four years at Dean & Company, a boutique management consulting firm.
What has been your favorite class in the program so far?
Statistical Learning
What are your research/career interests?
I plan on either pursuing a career in sports analytics or at the cross section of data science and business.
What made you choose UVA for your master's in data science?
The one-year turnaround, integrative curriculum, and capstone opportunity were all exciting features of the program.
What is a fun fact about you?
I have a fake front tooth.
