Communications professional returns to UVA to enroll in online Master of Science in Data Science and acquire transferable skills for a changing world

Meet Andrew Hogue, who graduated from UVA in 2016 with an undergraduate degree in Statistics. After earning his first Master’s, in Sports Leadership, in 2017, Andrew embarked on a career in communications with a focus on graphic design. Today, Andrew works in communications for the Colonial Athletic Association. Lured back by fond memories of his alma mater, Andrew joined UVA’s online MSDS program.

Why did you choose to come to UVA for your Masters in Data Science?

I have a Statistics degree, and I know Data Science is a field that’s growing by leaps and bounds. When I graduated from UVA, the on-campus program was just getting off the ground. I actually considered applying to that, but ended up getting another degree first, then coming back and enrolling in the online program last fall.

Why did you choose to do the online program?

I work full-time, so an online program was my only option. Coming into it, I was a little biased towards the MSDS. I had some friends from my undergrad class go through the residential program who were extremely happy with their experience. Now, they work for companies like CarMax and Capital One. Knowing about their experience with the MSDS and the doors it opened for them was a big endorsement. Having already attended UVA as an undergraduate, I knew their high standards, So that made it easier to make the decision and take the leap to enroll in the online program.

How has the online learning experience been thus far?

For a young professional like myself, I think an online program can be advantageous. I use Zoom for work a lot, so I’m familiar with how to be productive with that kind of interaction. So, for my academic life, it wasn’t that big of a transition to just hop on Zoom and listen to the professors and just go to the modules each week.

Why data science?

I think data science is so interdisciplinary that you can use it in any field. Even if you’re not required to use data intensively at all times, there are a lot of benefits to be reaped from expanding one’s knowledge of data. Right now, I like the work I’m doing a lot. But a Master of Science in Data Science can open doors and make a variety of positions possible. Whether I stay in athletics and communications or move to another field like healthcare or finance, having my MSDS, especially from a distinguished school like UVA, will continue to be an asset.

What has been the highlight of your time in UVA’s online MSDS program so far?

UVA is such a well-oiled machine. I think the high point has been UVA’s resolve to keep making this a functional program, something that you can get value out of no matter what, especially given the current situation in the world. I also value the sense of community within the online program. In addition to sending out newsletters, the school takes the time to interact with all of its students in a meaningful way, like hosting fireside chats with Dean Bourne that students are able to attend virtually. I’ve also been impressed by the response to COVID-19. This is a crazy time, but there’s a lot of data to be pulled from it. The program has gone out of its way to demonstrate what the school is doing with that data to give us a real world picture of how we can apply our skills, be it in a classroom, professional setting or real-time crisis.

An online Master of Science in Data Science can help you become more of an asset in your current role or enable you to pivot your career and professional trajectory. If you’re thinking about earning an M.S. in Data Science, apply here today.