Viktoria Zruttova
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About
Viktoria Zruttova (CDS MS'25), a current MSDS student with a unique blend of athleticism and analytical skills. Originally from Slovakia, Viktoria’s passion for data science grew from her past internship, which led to pursuing the MSDS program.
Can you share a bit about your background before joining the MSDS program?
In high school in Slovakia, I focused on chemistry and biology, but I eventually realized that chemistry and I were not meant to be. I found myself way more excited about computer science classes and math. Thanks to rowing, I was able to get to the US, join the BU women’s rowing team, and I chose to study Statistics and Computer Science for my undergrad.
Did you have any professional experience in data science before coming to BU? If so, how has that experience shaped your journey in the program?
Yes! During the summer after junior year, I interned at a company where I evaluated hate speech detection models. It was my first time working on a real data science project, and I loved it. That experience opened my eyes to how data science could be used for social impact, and it inspired me to take CS506 in my senior year. From there, I applied to the MSDS program and I got accepted.
Has your experience in sports influenced your approach to problem-solving in data science?
For sure. Rowing has taught me to push through pain, work under pressure, and always be a team player. In data science, you also hit walls, just with code instead of lactate. My sports background has made me resilient and helped me stay focused when fine-tuning a model feels like rowing into a headwind for 2k straight.
Do you see an intersection between sports and data science? Have you come across any interesting applications of data science in rowing or athletics in general?
Yes—but I’ll be honest, rowing is still a bit old school. We do use tools like the Peach system to measure stroke efficiency, and that’s cool. Although the manufacturing of rowing equipment is quite high-tech—the optimization of boat shapes and the balance between rigidity and weight - it does not affect athletes directly on a day-to-day basis. As an athlete, the most data-driven tool I use is my WHOOP bracelet, which helps me track recovery, strain, and sleep. But compared to other sports, data science in rowing is still catching up. In sports like Formula 1, data is everywhere and drives every decision.
Balancing a rigorous MSDS program with your career as an athlete is no small feat. How do you manage your time effectively, and what strategies have helped you maintain good grades?
Rowing takes up at least 23 hours of my week, which feels like having a full-time job on top of a full-time master’s program. On top of that, I’m also a course assistant for two classes, so things get intense fast. I’ve had to become intentional about time management and my sleep schedule. One of the best decisions I made was getting a bike—it cut my commute time by 3/4, which makes a huge difference when every minute counts. I’ve also learned the value of prioritization: my schedule is packed, so I’ve had to step back from things that aren’t currently essential. To focus, I’ve realized I work best alone, behind closed doors, no distractions, just me and my assignments. That quiet time is where I get the most done. And honestly, having a team full of smart, studious women helps a lot. Knowing I’m not in this alone makes the chaos feel a little more manageable.
What challenges have you faced as a student-athlete in the MSDS program, and how have you overcome them?
Honestly? Stress. I’ve learned to leverage stress and turn it into focus and energy. When I’m racing or dealing with four assignments and a regatta in the same week, that adrenaline helps me perform. Stress isn’t my enemy—it’s my boost.
What are your goals post-graduation? Do you see yourself working in a data-driven role within sports or another industry?
My dream job is to work as a data scientist for a Formula 1 team—ideally, McLaren. I’m a huge papaya fan. Until I get there, I’m open to any role where I can use data to drive meaningful decisions.
What is one fun or unexpected fact about you that people might not know?
I’m a massive sneakerhead. I love sneakers—I cannot stop buying them. If I like your sneakers, I will compliment them, no hesitation. It’s my favorite icebreaker and my worst financial decision.