Daijin's story

When I decided to apply for a Masters, I wanted to study at a university that provided the best of both worlds in data science and development studies.” DAIJIN JUNG
Human and Social Data Science MSc

“My background is in international development, where I planned and implemented projects around the globe. Making evidence-based decisions is key to success in my field, so I felt increasingly drawn to the world of data science.

When I decided to apply for a Masters, I wanted to study at a university that provided the best of both worlds in data science and development studies. Many of my colleagues happened to be Sussex graduates, and I was drawn to the MSc in Human and Social Data Science as it felt like a good fit.

I loved the fact that my course started with the basics, which included the fundamentals of computer science, mathematics and statistics. My dissertation enabled me to focus on my chosen area of interest, which involved using remote-sensing satellite data to monitor and evaluate the Great Green Wall initiative in Senegal. Although it was tough to explore a single topic in such great depth, I was really passionate about it, and the time I spent doing so was invaluable.

Living on campus was the right choice for me – I could get to lectures super quickly, and the surroundings were especially beautiful during summer. As someone who thinks the weather plays a crucial role in our lives, Brighton and Hove is the right place to be as we have more sunny days than most of the cities in England. It’s such a safe and student-friendly city, and offers lots of places to explore.

I’m currently working at the British Academy as a Monitoring and Evaluation Officer, where I’m in charge of reporting Official Development Assistance (ODA) programme data to the British Government. I believe this is a great stepping stone to becoming a data scientist who knows how to incorporate data skills and solve problems within international development.

My advice for anyone who’s thinking about studying for a Masters in Data Science is that it’s important to begin your course with a clear vision in mind. What you want to get out of it should be determined by you, not defined by others.”

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