In our BSc Data Science & Society programme, students are pioneers who push boundaries and shape the future! What makes them choose such a cutting-edge path? Since February, we have been looking into this question with the series "Leading Change with Data Science - A Bold New Path." Each month, students share their motivation for joining and envision real-world application of the lessons learned. Today, we read about Jochem's insight!

Hello, Jochem! Thank you for participating in this new blog series. Could you tell us what initially sparked your interest in the programme Data Science & Society?

Sure! Before this, I studied commercial economics at an applied sciences university. During an internship at a consultancy firm that was heavily involved in data-related projects, I found working extensively with data, visualizing it, and deriving insights from it incredibly enjoyable. I felt like I was making a significant contribution, something I didn’t experience much during my previous studies, which mostly revolved around selling products, a field I realized wasn’t truly for me. This experience sparked an interest in finding fulfillment in my work, leading me to explore data-focused programmes.

Were there any specific experiences or events that influenced your decision to pursue this field over more conventional ones (law, medicine, international business...)?

I had applied to multiple bachelor programmes at different universities. However, the only one that contacted me was the Data Science and Society programme. That was a nice surprise! I was going through a rough time, and their interest in me served as a motivating factor. I believe Maria, the Admissions Officer, reached out to me, and that was really appreciated. I feel like most universities wouldn’t have accepted me at the time because I only had my HAVO completed, which typically doesn’t meet the requirements for university admission. They guided me on what steps to take and how to proceed, which was very helpful.

How did you weigh the pros and cons of choosing Data Science & Society against more traditional fields?

My situation was somewhat different because I realized that other universities required a higher level of math that I didn’t have. I was simply grateful for being given the opportunity to follow my ideal programme here.

I appreciate the small-scale nature of the university. Large classes can be somewhat daunting for me, so I really value the interactive aspect of the programme. Additionally, I specifically looked for programmes that required me to relocate. As I come from North Holland, near Haarlem, I was happy to move to Leeuwarden.

Another aspect that motivated me in choosing the programme was my interest in the societal aspect. Unlike many other universities I applied to that focused solely on data science or information technology (IT), this programme offered a combination of both, which really spoke to me. During my consultancy internship, I often engaged in discussions about societal issues, so I knew this aspect would be highly relevant as well.

❝During my consultancy internship, I often engaged in discussions about societal issues, so I knew this aspect would be highly relevant as well.❞

Did your family or friends have reservations or expectations about your choice over more traditional paths?

After stopping my previous study, I had a gap year. Mostly, my brother and former colleagues were really encouraging me to pursue this path because they knew I was passionate about it and would likely enjoy it. I had a lot of supportive people around me who motivated me to take this step. Generally speaking, the people around me are very supportive of pursuing higher education. On top of that, as I said before, I had a positive first interaction with the university, which quickly made me feel connected with it and played a significant role in my decision-making process.

❝I had a positive first interaction with the university, which quickly made me feel connected with it and played a significant role in my decision-making process.❞

How do you anticipate your chosen field will enable you to contribute to society or create meaningful change?

When I reviewed the curriculum beforehand, I noticed that the subjects were applicable to most jobs. For example, learning coding is almost a necessity for many positions. In my previous job, many colleagues didn't have backgrounds directly related to the sector we worked in. My perception is that completing the study, coupled with the right work ethic and skills, can be highly beneficial. Last but not least, I believe attending a reputable university like this one definitely helps.

❝When I reviewed the curriculum beforehand, I noticed that the subjects were applicable to most jobs.❞

Do you feel that current events, like the pandemic, influenced your perspective or determination to pursue this particular path?

Absolutely. That was also my motivation for leaving my previous programme and starting a new one. During my previous study, I experienced lockdown and had to attend online classes, which was demotivating. I felt a strong desire to return to traditional in-person learning, move out, live independently, and truly experience college life!