Tacos and Think Tanks: Master’s Students Map Their Ideal Student Experience 

Students from the M.S. in Data Science, Residential program recently joined the Office of Student Affairs for a “Tacos and Think Tanks” brainstorm activity. 

Students were invited to map their ideal student experience by placing colorful sticky notes around the room, highlighting the type and frequency of programs they believed would enhance their time as graduate students. 

A bake-off and Friendsgiving were among the suggestions, though not all were food related. Students also mentioned attending or hosting data science conferences, exploring Charlottesville, hosting service-learning opportunities, and building a “strong support network.”

While the tacos from Farmacy were a fan favorite, students say it was just a bonus to the day’s activity. The opportunity to give voice to their ideal student experience was priceless and they welcomed the opportunity to lend their voice. 

Ali Rivera (MSDS ’23) said, “I feel like this was an opportunity to share a lot of the things that we've been talking about over the last couple of weeks. Having a space to do that makes me feel supported, and having a space to elaborate on these topics makes me excited for the months to come.” 

Students appreciated the Office of Student Affairs for inviting their creativity and ideas. Assistant Dean of Student Affairs Dahlia Hylton said the goal was to do just that. 

“As the Office of Student Affairs evolves, it's important to have student voices at the center of how we operationalize our support efforts. Today’s program served as a way to not only check in to see how they are doing but for the students to be invested in their own experience,” said Hylton. 

Students in the residential master’s in data science are now five weeks into their 11-month program. Hylton says the event's timing was intentional. 

“Recognizing how rigorous the program is and striking a gentle balance to encourage a rounded experience is important,” said Hylton. “Those present held such great energy and suggested exciting ideas. I'm excited to get back into the ‘lab’to develop them further. I'm also excited about co-creating these events with the students, such as the Friendsgiving event.”

Next month, Student Affairs will kick off the fall semester with a suite of student-centered events during “Wahoo Welcome.”