Jan

Why did I choose my programme (and CBS)?
During the two years of working before starting my master’s, I figured out that I wanted to study a programme that sits at the intersection of business and IT - and the Data Science programme at CBS does exactly that. It is perfect for people like me who are passionate about data science, but are more interested into its business applications instead of, for example, deep diving into small mathematical details. 

I also specifically chose CBS due to its reputation and contacts to industry-leading companies - and hugely benefited of both during my studies. 

What do I like the best?
I really like that the programme always looks at data science topics from a business perspective - for example by going through case studies or by lectures given by industry experts. This way, you always get the feeling that what you are learning about is of relevance, and the skill set you acquire really is needed on the job market.

Also, the programme gives a lot of opportunities to shape it to your individual needs. You can easily go on exchange, integrate an internship or take classes at other universities in Copenhagen (DTU or ITU).

How do I experience the difference in academic level between my bachelor and master programme?
The difference was quite big in many aspects. I'm coming from a non-technical background (social sciences), which posed quite some challenges to get acquainted with very new fields of research I wasn't experienced with. Second, most of the classes in the Data Science programme come with multiple assignments during the semester which need to be passed in order to take part in the final exam. While this facilitates the learning processes throughout the class, I wasn't used to this examination form from my bachelor programme.

What are the biggest challenges in my study programme?
Coming from a non-technical background with my coding knowledge being based on taking a few online classes before starting this master’s programme, the biggest challenge definitely was about catching up in all the technical courses. Yes, there are introductory classes in the beginning in order to bring everyone on the same level, but the pace picks up super quickly - so be prepared to put in the extra hours if you don't have that much of a technical background. But it is manageable and definitely worth it! 

What would I have liked to have known before starting my programme?
Retrospectively, the programme was more technical than I expected it to be before study start, considering that CBS is still a business school. This of course is nothing negative - in the course of the programme, I learned an incredible amount and always had the feeling that I was acquiring relevant skills. However, if I had known how technical it turned out be, I would have definitely invested more time in preparation (online coding classes etc.) before starting the programme, as it would have made the start a lot easier.

What do I want to do after finishing my programme?
A very long and very well deserved vacation ... 

... after which I'll start as a Data & Analytics Consultant at one of the big consulting firms. As this job is located directly at the intersection between business and IT and it requires acumen in both these areas, I think the Data Science programme sets a perfect foundation to succeed in this position. 

In general, I really want to continue in my work life what I am passionate about and why I studied Data Science at CBS: building a bridge between business and technology.

If I could give myself a piece of advice, before starting it would be…
Studying a full-time master’s programme in an academic area I was new to while also working part-time on the side (which you kind of have to do as a foreigner if you want to afford living in Copenhagen) was tough. I was often stressed about never-ending to-do lists and a full calendar. If I could start again, I would tell myself to still prioritise a healthy balance of work/study life and social life and take more days off - after all, Copenhagen is still an incredibly beautiful and liveable city, which I at times forgot to enjoy.