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A Week in the Life: Residential MSDS Student Mercedes Mora-Figueroa de Liñán
I’m Mercedes, a graduate student in the Master of Data Science (MSDS) residential program at the University of Virginia. After working for three years at Microsoft in Madrid (Spain), my hometown, I decided to take a year off to pursue my master’s in data science.
My lifestyle and schedule now look a lot different from what they did a year ago. While there’s plenty of time to study, work, and have fun, balancing it all requires pacing and planning. Let me show you what a week in the life of a graduate student looks like!
Weekly Schedule
My day starts with a battle against my alarm clock, as I hit snooze an average of three times before finally waking up at 8 AM. I take half an hour to enjoy my morning caffeine and a savory breakfast (turkey, spinach, and avocado sandwich is my favorite) to power through the morning. Then, I prepare for school and hunt for the closest Veo scooter to ride to class. I plan to get a bike soon, but for now, the scooters do the trick and add a bit of adventure to my morning commute.
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Currently, we’re in the summer term, and classes run from 9 to 11:30 AM daily, with additional sessions from 1 to 4:30 PM on Tuesdays and Thursdays. On the shorter days, I head to the newly renovated Shannon Library on Grounds. The crystal ceiling room on the second floor has a beautiful design and it’s the perfect combination of AC with natural light. It’s my favorite spot to work on homework and personal tasks while enjoying an iced coffee from Saxbys.
On Tuesdays and Thursdays, I pack lunch and use the break to work with peers in the 4th-floor study room. It’s connected to the terrace in the brand new Data Science building so it’s perfect if you get frustrated with the lab and you need a well-deserved break.
After classes and study sessions, I take a 30-minute walk home to get some fresh air and stretch my legs. I get home, relax for one hour or two and change into my gym clothes and head to the North Grounds Rec Center, which is just a 10-minute walk from my place. The gym is super well-equipped, and working out there helps me stay motivated.
After the gym, depending on the recipe for the day, I’ll stop by Kroger for groceries on my way back. Back home, I cook dinner. I’m taking this time to learn new recipes and improve my cooking skills. My latest discovery: spicy cauliflower tacos! I make it once a week.
After dinner, I ensure all my assignments for the day are submitted, and then close my day with some reading.
Life as a Residential Student
Classes are engaging and challenging, with a mix of lectures, hands-on projects, and collaborative work. The faculty are incredibly supportive and always available to help.
One of the best parts of being a residential student is the vibrant community. Every week, there are various events to participate in, from relaxation series events and workshops to social gatherings and cultural events.
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Charlottesville has so much to offer, and I’m gradually exploring its many facets. The local food scene is fantastic, with a variety of restaurants and cafes to try. Bodo’s Bagels and Taco Tuesdays at Asado are classics, but a personal recommendation of mine is Inka Grill, a Peruvian place on the Corner.
If you are an outdoor person, Charlottesville is well-known for its hiking trails, and a great chance to explore the natural beauty around the city. If you prefer indoor activities, I’ve heard DraftHouse cinema offers discounts on Tuesdays.
Personal Life and Fun
Outside of academics, I can’t wait for the University clubs to kick off in mid-August! I plan to join dance and sports clubs once they do. These activities are a great way to meet new people, stay active, and have fun.
There are also social plans every week at UVA. For example, The Thursday Evening Sunset Series at Carter Mountain runs from mid-April to the end of September. They have live music, food trucks and it's a great way to enjoy a beautiful sunset view with friends.
Being a part of the MSDS program at UVA is an enriching experience, filled with learning, growth, and new friendships. I know it’s going to a year of hard work, but also a very rewarding and enjoyable period in my life.
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