MSDS Student Profile: Raymond Mora

Raymond Mora

M.S. in Data Science 2023, University of Virginia
B.S. in Astronomy 2021, University of Virginia

Q: Tell us about your path to data science.

My research experience as an undergrad studying astronomy showed me the power of computational analysis, data exploration, and data analysis. From there, I realized that these things could be applied to any industry and started learning about the new emerging field of data science. Realizing that this field combines my interests in math and computing, I decided to research it more in depth and found things that interested me more and more, like building predictive models using machine learning. I now plan to develop my data science skills to apply these methods in the projects I pursue to get a more nuanced understanding of them. 

Q: What do you hope to do with a data science degree?

There are several industries I'm interested in. In the public and consumer sectors, I want to help stakeholders make more equitable decisions that will best serve their audience while meeting their goals. In the academic and research sectors, I hope to build tools that allow scientists to more easily work with their data. Fields like astronomy are entering exciting, data-rich eras that will greatly benefit from carefully curated pipelines to prepare this data and have it ready for researchers. Gaining the ability to help make these tools is exciting. 

Q: What has surprised you about the MSDS program so far?

The amount of autonomy granted to us in our work. Professors are always available to answer questions, provide demonstrations, and guide us through a lesson, but they still show that they trust us to get through complex problems by allowing us to use different approaches. 

Q: What advice would you give to someone considering a master’s in data science?

Data science is a broad field and pursuing a master's in data science is one of the many ways you can further develop your skills in an area you are passionate about. Before making the decision to pursue a master's in data science or not, you should examine your current career trajectory, think about career goals, and ask if a master's program could help those two better align or shorten the path. 

Q: What are some fun facts about yourself?

• I like to practice my photography. I like to do all types of photography but especially enjoy doing landscapes and astrophotography. 
• I enjoy working on cars and hope to start work on my own project car one day. 
• I fist bumped Kirk Hammett.