Grad School Gameplan: Paths for Data Science | October 2nd from 5:30pm-7, Wilson 103
Trying to figure out how to make your way towards that career in analytics or a data driven role, but now quite sure how to get there? Are you still considering whether grad school is the right choice for you, and which programs are the right fit? A first- or second- year student just trying to plan for the future? Graduate school applications have opened up and deadlines are just around the corner, so this is a GREAT time to plan for your future! For all of these cases – we’ve got just the thing for you in this VandyPASS career event, free with Bar Taco!
Join us for an informative event designed to help undergraduates explore graduate education opportunities in data science. Whether you’re weighing the decision between industry and graduate school, or trying to understand the differences between MS and PhD programs, this event offers essential insights for planning your academic future.
Talks from the Experts | 5:30pm – 6pm
Advanced Degrees in DS
Director of Graduate Studies for the Data Science Institute Master’s in Data Science program will guide you through the graduate school landscape in data science. Learn the key differences between master’s degrees and doctoral programs, and discover which path might align with your career goals. This session will cover:
- What top data science graduate programs seek in successful applicants
- The distinction between professional MS programs and research-focused PhDs
- Financial considerations including funding, assistantships, and program costs
- How to evaluate whether graduate school is the right next step for you
- Opportunities within Vanderbilt’s Data Science MS program
Get answers to critical questions about the graduate school application process, timeline planning, and how to strengthen your candidacy during your remaining undergraduate years.
Learn from Current Students | 6pm – 7pm
Advice from Ahead!
Connect with current graduate students who’ve recently navigated the path you’re considering. Our panel brings together unique perspectives on the graduate school journey in data science:
- Ida Rose Metiam -1st year DSI MS Student and and former Asurion analytics manager, can uniquely address the transition undergraduate directly to industry, and motivation to attend from graduate school after industry experience
- Benardicta Allotey -1st year DSI MS student and Vanderbilt University alum who majored in Child Studies and minored in data science, who can shed light on a successful transition into data science from a non-CS background
- Hyunjoon Lee – PhD Student in Biomedical Informatics, will share insights on pursuing data science through interdisciplinary doctoral programs
What You’ll Learn
Our panelists can help you navigate questions such as:
- Should I go straight to graduate school or gain industry experience first?
- What’s the real difference between MS and PhD programs in terms of daily life, commitment, and outcomes?
- How do funding and finances work for different types of graduate programs?
- What strategies help non-CS majors break into data science careers?
- How do I know if research is right for me?
This event is perfect for students at any stage – from those just beginning to consider graduate school to those ready to start applications. Bring your questions about program selection, application strategies, and long-term career planning!
Free Bar Taco will be provided!
RSVP on Anchorlink to reserve your spot and propose questions for our panelists!