CDS Student Voices & Inspirations: One Word’25

Riwaz Shrestha (CDS ’28)

If you were to describe CDS in one word, what would it be?

Passionate

What does CDS mean to you?

I was inspired to pursue a career in data science because it encapsulates the best aspects of every field I enjoy. While I initially considered computer science, I found it too theory-heavy and lacking in real-world, hands-on application. I wanted a field where my work could directly contribute to solving real-world problems. My interest in statistics and business, shaped by my high school experiences and work life, further drew me toward data-driven decision-making. When I discovered BU’s interdisciplinary approach, emphasis on practical applications, and strong industry connections, I knew that data science was the perfect fit for me.

What inspired you to pursue a career in data science?

I was inspired to pursue a career in data science because it encapsulates the best aspects of every field I enjoy. While I initially considered computer science, I found it too theory-heavy and lacking in real-world, hands-on application. I wanted a field where my work could directly contribute to solving real-world problems. My interest in statistics and business, shaped by my high school experiences and work life, further drew me toward data-driven decision-making. When I discovered BU’s interdisciplinary approach, emphasis on practical applications, and strong industry connections, I knew that data science was the perfect fit for me.

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Rheona Mehta (CDS ’26)

If you were to describe CDS in one word, what would it be?

Growth

What does CDS mean to you?

To me, CDS is a space where students are encouraged to explore and collaborate. The CDS curriculum, faculty, and staff are so supportive of all applications of data science and, therefore, foster such a diverse and welcoming community. CDS has not only taught me how to work with others, but it has also helped me sharpen my skills and ambitions, allowing me to grow both individually and as part of the CDS family.

What inspired you to pursue a career in data science?

I chose data science because the field is constantly evolving, and the possibilities with technology only continue to expand. Being at the forefront of such an innovative discipline with endless potential and so many groundbreaking achievements is incredibly exciting. The ever-updating nature of the field fuels my passion to stay at the cutting edge and continue exploring!

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Yaochen Zhang (CDS ’26)

If you were to describe CDS in one word, what would it be?

Innovation

What does CDS mean to you?

CDS is like my identity at BU. It is the place where I spend most of my time studying and working on projects during my time at school. Whenever people ask me what I study at BU, I am proud to point out the CDS building.

What inspired you to pursue a career in data science?

I enjoy working with statistics and programming. Applying statistical/technical concepts to solve real social challenges has always been my desired field of work. CDS provides me with great opportunities to pursue my career in data science.

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Marie Picini (CDS ’27)

If you were to describe CDS in one word, what would it be?

Opportunity

What does CDS mean to you?

CDS means so much to me. It means community, knowledge, and opportunity. CDS fosters all of these things and involves everyone. We have incredible speakers, events, and, most importantly, professors and admin staff. I am so glad to have discovered this major and CDS as a whole.

What inspired you to pursue a career in data science?

I always say that with data science, you can answer any question empirically, and being able to do that myself and apply it to anything I care about is incredibly important to me. The versatility and adaptability of data science is what attracted me to the field, as I have so many interests across so many topics, and being able to pursue them all is a dream, especially since I am pushing them using math and stats, my favorite subjects.

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Amruth DeVineni (MSDS ’26)

If you were to describe CDS in one word, what would it be?

Transformative

What does CDS mean to you?

For me, CDS is the very center of innovation and purpose. Curiosity meets real-world impact here. Because of the interdisciplinary nature of the program, I can keep my scope broad beyond just the technical experience of data science to other wings of itself. It is a tool for driving social change, making wiser decisions, and collaborating across domains.

What inspired you to pursue a career in data science?

I have always been fascinated by the hidden world of information behind numbers, patterns, and behaviors. What has inspired me the most is that data science combines logic and creativity to identify valuable insights that can bring change to the world. Be it predicting trends, enhancing healthcare solutions, or building smarter systems, I want to partake in shaping the world using data.

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Jingyuan Liu (MSCDS ’26)

If you were to describe CDS in one word, what would it be?

Inclusive

What does CDS mean to you?

To me, CDS means a much broader and more inclusive academic space that embraces interdisciplinary research. The beyond-programming courses offer me opportunities to apply algorithms to real-world situations, and I have received tremendous support from our faculty members. Their diverse backgrounds, including theology, sociology, and communication, give me valuable guidance across different interests and disciplines, helping me refine my academic and career goals. In many ways, CDS has opened my eyes and laid a solid foundation for the path I want to take.

What inspired you to pursue a career in data science?

I was first drawn to data science because I found data analysis and training algorithms interesting. Over time, I came to see it as a super powerful tool to explore and solve complex social issues. Whether through data analysis, algorithmic modeling, or simulations, data science provides a way to discover macro-level patterns and go beyond traditional qualitative approaches. Utilizing it can be a way to understand how systems work on a larger scale in society.

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Dhruv Gandhi (CDS ’25)

If you were to describe CDS in one word, what would it be?

Dynamic

What does CDS mean to you?

To me, CDS represents a community that fosters innovation and growth. Being a part of this community has challenged me to never stop learning and stay at the forefront of data science.

What inspired you to pursue a career in data science?

I chose to pursue a career in data science because I want to make an impact wherever I go. Data has the power to drive meaningful decisions in every industry, and I’m excited by the opportunity to produce insights that can create real change.

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Baria Mustafa (CDS ’26)

If you were to describe CDS in one word, what would it be?

Possibilities

What does CDS mean to you?

CDS is a beacon of change and opportunity. It’s the first place where I’ve truly felt like I know what I’m doing and where I belong. It has given me countless opportunities—from founding BU’s first Women in Data Science Club to joining Spark! and working on multiple projects. I’ve had the chance to attend the building’s naming ceremony, where I made invaluable connections, and I’ve worked closely with CDS’s administrative staff, gaining a newfound appreciation for the immense effort that goes into shaping the curriculum and organizing events. CDS is more than just an academic program—it’s a dynamic space that fosters growth, connection, and endless potential.

What inspired you to pursue a career in data science?

During my freshman and early sophomore years as a Computer Science student, I struggled with imposter syndrome and felt lost, alone, and unsure of my path. After my first semester of sophomore year, I took winter break as an opportunity to reflect deeply on my future. I questioned everything—should I switch to business? What drew me to CS in the first place? After a lot of soul-searching, I realized that I love coding, but more importantly, I love using technology to create meaningful impact. That realization led me to CDS, where I switched to Data Science in the spring semester—and I haven’t looked back since. With every class, project, and experience, my passion for data science grows stronger. My professors and the incredible friends I’ve made in this major inspire me daily, pushing me to learn and explore more. For example, I never thought data engineering was for me, but my close friend and VP of WiDS convinced me with her enthusiasm for databases, which made me eager to dive in. Being in CDS, surrounded by such brilliant and driven individuals, makes me excited about the future. If these are the kinds of people I’ll get to work with, then I know I’m in the right place.

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Paul Lee (CDS ’26)

If you were to describe CDS in one word, what would it be?

Supportive

What does CDS mean to you?

It means community and family to me. At a large campus like BU, it’s easy to feel like just a number in a classroom. I have never once felt unseen being part of CDS. There’s a unique closeness between students, advisors, and faculty, where you can build real relationships that would last a lifetime. Staff and faculty are always focused on creating a better positive learning environment around students. People genuinely care about your interests and growth, whether that is school-related or not.

What inspired you to pursue a career in data science?

My interest in data science was inspired by the desire to make a real-world impact. I have always been deeply interested in problem-solving and understanding the systems that shape our society. I realized that data science is at the intersection of so many fields I care about, such as education systems and sports. It’s a toolkit that can be used in any field to understand unsolved complex problems and build solutions that matter.

Support CDS 2025

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—Neeza Singh, BU Faculty of Computing & Data Sciences Communications Specialist