Data science isn’t always the most obvious path for students coming from backgrounds like microbiology, finance, or economics. Yet at the KDI School of Public Policy and Management (KDIS), it’s exactly this diversity of experience that shapes the unique journeys of its students. For Brigid, Alieu, and Ilva, their path to data science and KDI School’s Master of Data Science for Public Policy & Management was less about following a straight line and more about discovering a toolset that could make a real-world impact.

Starting from Curiosity

For Brigid Egbikwe, a microbiologist from Nigeria, her interest in data science began in the lab during the Ebola and COVID-19 outbreaks. “There were so many conspiracy theories and false narratives,” she recalls. “Working in medical research, I saw how micro biome data and epidemiological models could be used to track diseases and improve public health responses. That’s where data science started making sense to me.”

Alieu Cessay, who works at the National Accreditation and Quality Assurance Authority in The Gambia, had a more policy-focused entry point. “I collect enrolment and graduation data from higher education institutions. Over time, I started asking myself how I could use better techniques to analyze this data and guide decision-making,” he says. That question eventually led him to pursue formal training in data science.

And for Ilva Prifti, a finance professional from Albania, the pivot came while working in public administration: “At the Ministry of Finance, I was involved with EU fund management. One day it hit me: What if we could use machine learning to detect irregularities more efficiently? That moment really sparked my curiosity.”

Choosing KDIS

Despite coming from very different backgrounds, all three students found themselves drawn to KDI School for similar reasons: its interdisciplinary approach, international environment, and a curriculum that blends policy with technical skills.

Brigid points out that most Master’s programs in Data Science require a computer science or IT background: “What stood out for me was that KDI School offered a path even for someone like me coming from microbiology. The school’s structure and curriculum gave me confidence that I could grow here.”

Alieu appreciated how KDI School’s Master of Data Science for Public Policy & Management program integrated data science into real-world policy problems.: “It wasn’t just about coding. It was about using data for practical applications, which fits perfectly with my current role.”

And for Ilva, a recommendation from a friend who had attended KDIS sealed the deal. Ilva says, “She spoke very highly of the academic quality and the inclusive environment. When I looked deeper, I saw that the program really focused on data-driven policy, which is where I want to be.”

First Semester Impressions

The transition wasn’t without its challenges. Moving to a new country, adapting to an unfamiliar academic system, and diving into a technically demanding program took effort.

“My first semester was an eye-opener,” says Brigid. “It’s not just about learning to code, it’s learning how to think differently.”

Alieu agrees, but found support in the KDIS environment. “The professors are experts in their fields and always ready to help. We even had a sports day where our team won,” he adds with a smile.

For Ilva, the experience started with doubt but gradually turned into something more rewarding. “Everything was new the field, the school, the country. But over time, I found my rhythm and started really enjoying the learning process.”

Looking Ahead

Each of them has their own plans for the future, but they share a common goal: to use what they’ve learned to make a difference in their respective sectors.

“In the short term, I’m focused on building a strong foundation,” says Ilva. “Long term, I want to apply data dcience in public sector projects.”

Alieu wants to bring his skills back home: “I’ll return to The Gambia and use what I’ve learned to support better policy decisions. Eventually, I’d like to mentor others and maybe even pursue a PhD.”

Brigid also sees her journey as just beginning. “Data Science has given me a new lens to approach health research. I want to keep building on that.”

Advice for Future Students

When asked what advice they’d offer to students considering KDIS, their answers were practical.

“Have a good foundation in research and computer skills,” says Brigid. “And come with a resilient mindset.”

Alieu emphasizes statistics and programming. “Know some Python or R, and be open to thinking computationally,” he advises. 

Ilva adds, “More than anything, be curious. This isn’t just about tools—it’s about how you use them to ask meaningful questions.”

To incoming students: the journey won’t always be easy, but it will be worth it—and the KDIS community will be there with you.