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Finding Harmony in Music and Data: Marissa Burton’s MSDS Story
Marissa Burton
Education
M.S. in Data Science 2026, University of Virginia (2025-2026)
B.S. in Psychology; Minor in Data Science and Statistics; Minor in Mathematics 2025, University of Richmond
Hometown
Scotch Plains, NJ
Meet Marissa Burton, a student in the University of Virginia’s (UVA) M.S. in Data Science (MSDS) Residential program. With a background in psychology, statistics, and mathematics from the University of Richmond (U of R), Burton brings an interdisciplinary perspective to her studies. Inspired by her early experiences with coding and research, she chose to pursue a master’s degree to build the skills needed for a career in data, ideally in the entertainment industry, where she hopes to combine her interests in music, television, and analytics.
Outside of class, you’ll find her working in UVA’s music library, spending time with her MSDS classmates around Charlottesville, and staying connected with the family and friends who continue to inspire her journey. Read on to learn more about Marissa Burton.
Q: Tell us about your path to Data Science.
In my first year as a psychology student, I discovered data science through my methods and analyses course, where we coded in SPSS. This prompted me to join a research lab in my second year at the University of Richmond (U of R). However, little did I know that this lab specialized in qualitative data analysis techniques, such as thematic analysis.
After not being able to practice my quantitative analysis skills for the entirety of my second year, I was itching to get back into coding. Luckily, I discovered the small Data Science and Statistics (DSST) department and decided to branch out from psychology in my third and fourth years.
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Although I enjoyed my time in the DSST department at U of R, they did not have a major for the discipline; I still felt unprepared for a career in data science with just a minor. Thus, I was determined to find a master's program that properly trained me for a bright future in data.
Q: What do you hope to do with a Data Science Master's Degree?
I’m looking to go right into a career at the end of this program. Although I’m not quite picky about what industry I want to go into, working for an entertainment corporation in either music or television is very appealing to me.
Q: What has surprised you about the MSDS program so far?
Honestly, I was surprised at how much I already knew going into my first week of classes. Sure, I do not understand everything that goes on across the four courses (who does...), but having basic foundational knowledge in the mathematics and technical aspects of the program content has proven helpful thus far.
One huge advantage of the MSDS program is the free R and Python Bootcamps offered the summer before the program starts; if you are a student who needs a refresher on coding techniques or has no coding experience whatsoever, these bootcamps are invaluable.
Q: What are you involved in outside of class?
Outside of the classroom, you can find me working at UVA’s music library! I also worked at U of R’s music library in undergrad, so I’m enjoying the continued consistency in my schedule. You may also see my roommates and me (they are also in the MSDS program!) grabbing a bite to eat at Bodo’s, attending Sunset Series at Carter Mountain, and buying out all the shops at the local farmer’s market.
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A core principle I hold as well is having the time to maintain the relationships I hold outside of the UVA bubble. I will always, always leave time to call my parents, my boyfriend, and my best friend from U of R. They were the ones who supported me through my undergraduate career and are the reasons why I’m where I am today, so I’ll forever be thankful for them.
Q: What advice would you give to someone considering a Master’s in Data Science?
Do not underestimate your knowledge! Through most undergraduate prerequisites and major requirements, you will learn the core aspects of data science. If you want to get a head start and take data science and statistics courses, I say go for it, but also do not feel like you cannot apply to master’s programs in data science without extensive math and/or coding experience. You know how you learn best!
Q: What are some fun facts about yourself?
I’ve always loved singing and music in general. I’ve been involved in choirs and musical groups throughout my whole life; most recently, I was in U of R’s Off the Cuff a cappella group, where I got to meet so many people who shared my passion for music. I’m also still learning how to play the guitar, so I can play and sing along to my favorite songs.
