Close
Learn about the experience of Data Science and Public Policy MSc student David
Tell us a bit about yourself, and your background.
I’m David, I am 27 years old and am currently studying my MSc in Data Science and Public Policy (Economics pathway) at UCL. I’m undertaking further study following a few years working at Deloitte and the Department for Transport across a range of analytical roles. Before then I completed my undergraduate degree in Economics at the University of Exeter, from which I graduated in 2020.
Why did you apply to Economics Department, UCL?
I applied for a few courses, but this one stood out to me for a few reasons; firstly, the department has an excellent academic reputation, offers a high standard of teaching and is well respected internationally. Beyond that, I was seeking a master’s in economics with an applied focus on contemporary analytical methods - this course ticked all the boxes for me!
What do you like best about your course so far?
I would say the challenging mix of content and how we are taught - initially learning about methods in class and having the independence to put these into practice with problem sets almost every week. It’s a balancing act to keep on top of competing deadlines, but I find it very helpful for consolidating.
What is the rest of your cohort like?
We are a diverse bunch from different walks of life and nationalities - people have come to the course for different reasons, be it straight from undergrad, after a year out, or after a few years of working.
What is the teaching and learning like?
It depends on the module - to give a general guide, each tends to have around 2-3 hours of lectures per week followed by a problem set due the following week. I’ll usually dedicate about 5 hours to a problem set - depending on my workload and my understanding of the lecture - which we will then talk through in a tutorial after submitting online.
What are your career aspirations and how do you envisage the programme helping with these?
My aspiration is to build on the analytical skills I have gained on this course and in my career to rejoin industry after this master’s - currently I am open to roles that allow me to create impact as an experienced analyst - whether in the private sector, public sector or in a collaborative role between both.
What’s your favourite spot on campus to relax or hang out with friends?
Whilst central London can be challenging to find ‘relaxed’ spots, I’m still discovering new places every week! I enjoy the Waterstones cafe (when there’s space) and the Print Room cafe. Otherwise, Gordon square is probably my favourite green space in the immediate vicinity.
Give us your top three things to do/see/go to in London.
Tough question! Three places I always enjoy visiting around London are Richmond Park, the Natural History Museum and Battersea Power Station. Each offers a totally different experience, although I always enjoy exploring new places, too.
Who inspires you and why?
To sound cliche for a moment, I draw inspiration from lots of people - not just the famous but also family and friends! Anyone who inspires authenticity to be oneself, demonstrates compassion to others, or finds nuance in any debate.
If you could implement one policy in the world today, what would it be?
From my experience in a UK government department, I would advocate in some way for more effective data-driven decision-making within public-private partnerships; in essence, anywhere where the public sector guides the overall industrial strategy but outsources day-to-day operations to private businesses (many public services operate on this basis). I would look to implement policies which increase incentives to improve data sharing between these organisations, particularly for key strategic metrics.