Data Science in Action: ICP Students Learn from Industry Expert

On May 15, students in the Interdisciplinary Concentrations Program (ICP) Data Analysis & Research Methods cohort were treated to an inspiring visit from a seasoned professional in the field of Data Science. Ms. Vianna Fagel, Director of Data Management, Reporting & Analytics at Diversity Lab, brought the world of data to life with real-world insights and compelling stories from her career.

Ms. Fagel kicked off the session by posing a simple but powerful question: “What is Data Science?” From there, she guided students through the seven-step Data Science Process — from data collection all the way to presenting results. Along the way, she illustrated each step with impactful examples, including her work predicting hospital-level Covid-19 outbreaks in New Jersey, showcasing the life-saving potential of data-driven decision making.

Students also had the chance to hear Ms. Fagel’s personal journey — a refreshingly honest account of how her path to becoming a data scientist took shape during college, even when she wasn’t sure what the future held. She emphasized how her career allows her to be both “creative and analytical,” to “solve puzzles,” and to make “real-world impacts.”

The visit concluded with a Q&A session, where students engaged directly with Ms. Fagel, diving deeper into the practical and philosophical aspects of working in data science.

As the year comes to a close, Ms. Wahle, who has guided these students through their foundational studies in data analysis and research, will now pass the baton to Ms. Champion, who will lead their continued exploration in their junior year.