If you’re interested in something STEM-y, enjoy your math classes, and also are really interested in computer science, you might also be drawn to data science. Like comp sci, data science has gotten a lot more popular over the last few years, especially because of its broad applications for future careers and high earning potential. Or, maybe you have no idea exactly what it is you want to study, but you heard data science might be cool. That’s totally fine; we can help either way.
Because data science is becoming more competitive, you need to have a college application that stands out among all the other data science applicants. And sophomore year is the best time to start building that competitive application.
No, sophomore year is not too early to get started, in fact, it’s probably the best time to get started on the college strategy process. Let’s dive into what you can do as a sophomore to help set yourself up for success as a data science major.
Identifying the Niche
You could just apply as a data science major and call it a day, but that’s not gonna give you a competitive edge. You want to find a topic within data science that you’re really interested in and explore it deeply.
When we work with clients, we help them figure out what their niche is. We take them from something broad like data science down to something a little more narrow, like machine learning, down to something even more narrow, like how to use machine learning to optimize learning outcomes. once we identify a niche, we are really able to help craft opportunities that help you stand up.
Classes and Books
So, how do you figure out what your niche is? You have to start learning about your topic! This process doesn’t happen overnight!! we’d love to just give you a niche and say this is your niche, but it doesn’t really work like that, and that strategy wouldn’t really help you out what you’re actually excited about. So, you’re gonna have to research and learn and read and take classes.
We give our clients personalized curriculum to help them explore their interests (which is honestly a little more fun than regular homework because you’re actually interested in the topic!). We may start with a couple of entry-level data science classes, and slowly work down our funnel once you identify what it is that’s catching your interest.
Extracurriculars
Once you have your interest, it’s time to add some evidence to your college applications. The easiest way to do that is through extracurriculars! You can do extracurriculars in school or out of school. In school, it might look like joining the data science club or doing sports statistics for the school paper, which are all good things to have. However, what we really like to see are the out-of-school extracurriculars.
These are the more in-depth activities that really show the extent to which you’ve worked on pursuing your goals. Our students have done everything from independent projects, to research with college professors, to internships, to summer jobs. There is no one-size-fits-all template for extracurriculars, but we can tell you to avoid filling your résumé with things that are irrelevant to your interests. We get that you might love board game club or lacrosse, but you need to take an analytical look at what you’re spending your time on and make sure you have enough time to pursue your academic interests.
Summer Plans
And probably the most important thing on this list, summer! As a sophomore (soon to be rising junior), this summer is incredibly important to your college applications. This is the biggest block of uninterrupted time you’ll have to strategize and execute plans regarding your niche. So don’t waste it.
One way you can start exploring your niche this summer is through summer programs. Most top-tier colleges offer the opportunity to take college-level classes on campus or online, which will give you a chance to learn more about what you’re interested in and learn a little bit more about potential schools.
We also like to add in some activities that are a little bit more meaningful than just loading up on summer programs. Like extracurriculars, these things might look like research, jobs, internships, and independent projects. What every student needs to explore their niche is different, and that’s why we work one-on-one with the students to figure out what they are excited about.
Sophomore year is incredibly important in the grand scheme of college admissions. We know it can feel early, but it’s really the best time to start identifying and exploring your niche! it gives you enough time to learn what you’re truly excited about and enough time to change your mind if you realize that data science isn’t your favorite thing.
If you want to start strategizing for college, sophomore year is the best time to start. Reach out to us today if you need help with your college prep plans.