Image
Building Data-Driven Solutions: Muhammad Amjad’s Vision for the Future
Muhammad Tayyab Amjad
Education
M.S. in Data Science 2026, University of Virginia
B.S. in Commerce 2021, University of Virginia
Hometown
Gujranwala, Pakistan
Meet Muhammad Amjad, a graduate student in the University of Virginia’s (UVA) M.S. in Data Science (MSDS) Residential program. Originally from Gujranwala, Pakistan, Amjad completed his undergraduate studies in commerce at UVA before returning to Grounds to pursue data science. With a passion for solving complex problems at the intersection of technology and business, he’s eager to apply both his technical and managerial skills to help organizations embrace data-driven strategies.
In this Q&A, Amjad shares what drew him to data science, what has surprised him about the program so far, and a few fun facts, including a full-circle story about UVA’s old Cavalier Inn and the School of Data Science’s new home.
Q: Tell us about your path to data science.
During undergrad at UVA and in my career since graduation, I’ve noticed how intertwined traditional technical fields like computer science and traditional social sciences like business have become. I’ve always enjoyed solving complex problems in different areas and that passion has led me to data science, where I can learn how to be more efficient at doing what I love most – problem solving.
Q: What do you hope to do with a M.S. in Data Science degree?
With an M.S. in Data Science, I hope to leverage my technical and managerial skillset in helping organizations implement data-driven strategies to solve any complex problem.
Q: What has surprised you about the MSDS program so far?
I’ve been surprised by how interdisciplinary the faculty’s expertise is. Learning from experts and classmates with backgrounds in healthcare, economics, computer science, and other fields really enriches the classroom experience.
Q: What class do you look forward to taking?
The MSDS capstone project – the integrated research and consulting aspects of the capstone should be fun.
Q: What advice would you give to someone considering a Master’s in Data Science?
Data Science, as a proper academic field, is newer than the iPhone. There is no perfect program, so consider the program that gives you the best opportunity to leverage your background and intellectual curiosities.
Q: What are some fun facts about yourself?
- I can speak 5 languages: English, Urdu, Hindi, Punjabi, and French.
- I’ve traveled to more than 15 countries; Malaysia has been my favorite so far.
- My family stayed at the Cavalier Inn during first-year orientation in 2017. The Cavalier Inn has since been demolished, and that site now houses…the School of Data Science.
