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MSDS Residential Student Profile: Chris Van Niekerk
Chris Van Niekerk
Education
M.S. in Data Science 2025, University of Virginia
B.S. Data Analytics and Statistics 2024, High Point University
B.S. Actuarial Science 2023, High Point University
Minors in Computer Science, Math, Finance, and Economics
Hometown
Sasolburg, South Africa
Q: Tell us about your path to data science.
I started out in undergrad with an Actuarial Science major. It was during my first few years of undergrad that I really started to enjoy the statistics and data-related classes I took.
Due to COVID-19, all student-athletes were given an extra year of eligibility. Fortunately, this allowed me to add the second degree while still competing at the collegiate level. From that point onward I changed my focus to data science and haven't looked back since.
Q: What do you hope to do with a data science master's degree?
Being an athlete myself I am very interested in the world of sports analytics. I hope to use this degree as a stepping stone to enter a career in this realm. Data is becoming more and more important for professional sports teams. I hope to work with a professional sports team and use data to help them make informed decisions. By leveraging the skills I learn in the Master’s in Data Science (MSDS) program, I aim to uncover insights that can lead to a competitive edge.
Q: What has surprised you about the MSDS program so far?
Two things have really surprised me up to this point. Firstly, how accessible and friendly the faculty and staff are. They genuinely care and are always willing to help with your journey on an individual level. Secondly, getting to know everyone in the cohort. This is genuinely a great group of people who are becoming good friends along the way.
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Q: What are you involved in outside the class?
Outside of class I am involved with the track and field team here at UVA. Alongside being a volunteer coach, I am training post-collegiately with Coach Brandon Amo for the 2028 Olympic Games. This has always been my biggest dream and being able to do this while pursuing my passion for data science is really a blessing.
Q: What advice would you give to someone considering a master’s in data science?
My advice would be to do your research. Really look where the alumni of the schools end up and what kind of jobs they get afterward. After seeing the great jobs alumni got after UVA, the choice to come here became very easy. Your time in the master's program goes by fast, especially with the UVA program only being a year. Don't waste time and build as many marketable skills as you can.
Q: What are some fun facts about yourself?
I grew up on a farm in South Africa and we farm with Angus cattle. This is also something that I am passionate about.
