
MDS 2024 graduate, Jiayu Yang, shares his inspiring journey from student to Data Curator with us, exploring how the MDS programme helps students combine knowledge and passion to create impact
The Master of Data Science for Public Policy (MDS) is a transformative two-year programme designed to equip the new generation of policymakers with the skills to address pressing global challenges. This programme empowers students to develop their analytical skills and bridges the gap between policy and data to create impactful solutions. Within the immersive and international environment of the Hertie School the Master of Data Science for Public Policy (MDS) offers students a unique opportunity to learn from the instructors of Data Science Lab and engage in discussions, debates, and practical projects. To help you have a deeper glimpse of the MDS programme, we interviewed an accomplished alumnus of the Hertie School, Jiayu Yang. Jiayu shares his personal experience and unique insights from his time at the Hertie School and reflects on the career path that awaited him after graduation.
Hertie School: Please introduce yourself. What was your background before joining Hertie’s Master of Data Science for Public Policy (MDS) program?
Hi, my name is Jiayu and I am an alumnus of the first MDS cohort. I am currently working as a data curator for the Africa Cluster of Excellence at the University of Bayreuth. As for my study background, oh, it's a bit complicated. I studied polymer material engineering as an undergraduate. After graduation, I started studying political science and then came to Hertie.
Were there any specific courses, professors, or projects that were particularly impactful on your learning journey?
I was influenced by many people at Hertie who made me better. Due to space constraints, I can't list them all, but here are a few who stand out:
- Dr. Will Lowe: A brilliant political methodologist and my master's thesis supervisor. He is incredibly knowledgeable in statistical text analysis and causal inference.
- Prof. Simon Munzert, an exceptional teacher and scholar who leads the MDS program, continually elevating it to new heights.
- Prof. Joanna Bryson, who taught us Governance and Politics of AI. Profoundly knowledgeable, cool, and engaging - the insights you gain are truly invaluable.
I also took a course called Getting Things Done in Politics, taught by Armand Zorn, a member of the Bundestag, and Prof. Sven Siefken, an expert in German public administration. This course was instrumental in deepening my understanding of German politics.
Could you tell us more about your professional year in Rwanda?
It was an incredible experience! I spent 10 months in Kigali working on the GIZ “FAIR Forward - AI for All” project, which is also part of the Digital Transformation Center Rwanda. My primary focus was supporting the development and capacity building of the local NLP community, as well as contributing to the development localized AI applications (e.g., a large language model in Kinyarwanda, an agricultural chatbot and a landslide monitoring system). I was also involved in researching African AI policy. This experience had a profound impact on me, significantly broadening my understanding and perspective on Africa's digital transformation process and allowing me to connect with many outstanding professionals.
How did the program equip you to tackle real-world public policy challenges through data science? What skills or tools did you learn in the program that you find yourself using most often in your work or daily life?
It is crucial to study and deeply understand both data science and its relation to policy and governance aspects. Data science is like a key that continually helps me unlock and expand my understanding of the world. The reflections on the ethics behind artificial intelligence, the technology itself, and the exploration of what constitutes good governance have been immensely rewarding for me.
What was the job search process like? How was the transition from being a Hertie student to Data Curator?
It's always stressful at first, but make sure you adjust your mindset and don't give up! The working visa application can also be a challenge, preparing all the required documents.
Working as a Data Curator at the Africa Cluster has given me the opportunity to apply the knowledge I gained at school and the insights from my internship in Rwanda. In some ways, I find being a student more demanding than working. At Hertie, I dedicated the vast majority of each day to my studies and am often the last one to leave the library. In contrast, I find it easier now to balance my life outside of work but always keep studying!
How has the Hertie School and its network helped you in your career progression?
I am grateful to the Hertie School and all the research centers for consistently inviting outstanding guest speakers to share their insights. I actively participated in these public events and seminars. Whenever a topic piques my interest, I make a conscious effort to ask questions and connect with the speakers. This has been immensely valuable in broadening my horizons and connections.
Looking back, what advice would you give to prospective students considering the Master of Data Science for Public Policy program?
First, clearly define your goals. Know what you truly want to achieve and dedicate yourself fully to pursuing it.
Second, never stop learning! The fields of artificial intelligence and related regulatory policies evolve rapidly, so staying up to date is essential.
Finally, keep an eye on updates and insights from experts in your area of interest, such as through LinkedIn. Staying informed is key to staying ahead.
Are you keen to learn more about the Master of Data Science for Public Policy programme? Attend one of our upcoming events and don’t miss out on the opportunity to apply for our Data For Good full scholarship before 15 February.