10 Years of transformative impact and counting
Ten years ago, Data 8 began as a bold experiment: a small course created by faculty with a vision for an inclusive and interdisciplinary approach to teaching data science. Fewer than 100 students enrolled that first semester. Today, that vision has flourished into the nation’s #1 data science program and the largest major (and minor) at UC Berkeley.
This anniversary, we celebrate the people who made it possible. Our students, alumni, faculty, and staff are part of a legacy still in progress, building an interconnected community of learning and support that continues to grow and inspire. Together, we’ve shown what’s possible when innovation and inclusion come first — and the next chapter is just beginning.
We invite you to celebrate with us this fall through special events and initiatives honoring all that we’ve built together—and all that lies ahead.
Celebrating 10 Years of Stories
From UC Berkeley classrooms to California Community Colleges, Data 8 has inspired thousands over the past decade. This fall, our community is reflecting on ways Data 8 changed their trajectory, built their confidence, or inspired them in ways that continue to this day. Share a favorite memory, reflection, or photo and help us honor the legacy of Data 8 together.
Read stories from students and alumni and submit your own on our Data 8 Story Wall.
Francie McQuarrie, B.A. '20
The first Data8 lecture was my first lecture on the first day of freshman year at UC Berkeley. In it, Professor Adhikari walked through an example of how analyzing the rate of sentences in Little Women was associated with the (now outdated) 140 character limit for a Tweet. My mind was blown - you could use data to find solutions in the real world? After that lecture, I knew my future was in Data Science. [...] Now I work as a machine learning engineer at a tech company in the Bay Area, and I used techniques taught in Data100 everyday.
I liked Data8 so much that I was a tutor, UGSI, and a summer lecturer from my second semester freshman year to senior year. I also taught Stat88 and Data100 my senior year. I wanted to provide accessible ways to learn basic coding, statistical, and reasoning skills for everyone of all backgrounds.
Asbah Wasim, B.A. '25
Data 8 not only sparked my passion for the field, but also inspired me to give back to the growing Data Science community at Berkeley. As a Data Science Peer Advisor—and later as Lead Peer Advisor—I guided over 2,000 students in navigating courses, research, and career opportunities, while mentoring new advisors and fostering a supportive environment. I also served on course staff for two upper-division Data Science courses, where I evaluated assignments, provided feedback, and discussed pedagogy with instructors. Both roles deepened my understanding of the field while finding fulfillment from empowering others. Teaching and advising have been some of the most rewarding parts of my journey, reminding me that Data Science is not just about analyzing data, but also about building community and supporting the growth of those around us.
Rashmi Bhoj, B.A. '21
Taking Data 8 catapulted me into a world of opportunity and discovery I never thought possible. [...] Now, I feel extremely fortunate to be in a field that allows me professional fulfillment and excites me to make a difference every day. Within my larger data science alumni peer community, I continue to feel motivated and inspired to reach new career milestones, even if we're no longer all in the same place. UC Berkeley's education not only motivates and accelerates growth, but also serves as a cannon to reduce the barriers to economic growth as well, no matter anyone's background. Go Bears forever :)
Upcoming Ways to Celebrate
Career Webinar: the Technical Interview
UC Berkeley Data Science Undergraduate Studies is teaming up with alum Ojasvi Khanna, Senior Data Scientist at Xbox/Microsoft, for a webinar on acing the technical interview. As someone who’s interviewed candidates for a range of positions, Ojasvi will share insider tips and practical strategies you can use to feel more confident and prepared as you apply to your next, or very first, data science job.
Open to students and alumni.
Data Science Undergraduate Instruction Crowdfund Campaign
Celebrate 10 years, empower 10 more...
To celebrate the 10-year anniversary of Data 8, we invite your support to sustain the data science program's legacy of innovation and impact. Your contribution to our crowdfund supports critical academic resources such as tutoring and student instruction, empowering the next generation of Berkeley students to explore, excel and lead in data science.
Oct 1 - 31
Homecoming Alumni Career Panel
Thank you to our 2025 Homecoming panelists who shared how Berkeley’s Data Science major prepares students for success in today’s ever-evolving career landscape. At this special Homecoming panel, alumni shared their journeys from classrooms to careers, reflecting on how their experiences at Berkeley shaped their professional paths. They offered practical advice for students eager to launch their own careers and insights for parents curious about the opportunities a Data Science education can unlock.
Data Science Student Course Staff Gratitude Day!
Celebrate the student instructors and tutors who make our data science courses thrive! These dedicated individuals have guided thousands of students through teaching and hands-on support, shaping both academic and personal journeys.
On Oct 14, make someone's day by tagging a current or former student instructor or tutor in a message of gratitude on LinkedIn, sharing how they made a difference in your journey. Use #Data8Anniversary so we can highlight meaningful posts and include the link: cdss.berkeley.edu/dsus/Data8Anniversary.
Don't miss a moment of the anniversary festivities!
More celebrations and opportunities are coming throughout the fall! Stay connected and be the first to hear about new events by joining our mailing list.
Data 8 Anniversary Crowdfund Donor Honor Roll
Celebrating the supporters of our Data 8 10-Year Anniversary Crowdfund whose generosity earned them a place on our donor honor roll. Thank you for powering the next generation of student leaders!
Want to see your name here? Check out our crowdfund before October 31!
Francie McQuarrie, B.A. '20
Eric Tilenius
Sadhana Shastri, '24
Shui Yu
Sophie Hu
Shoumik Jamil, B.A. '19
Sepehr Khosravi, '24
Marjorie Ensor
Richard Takagi
Christina Teller
Angela Guan, B.A. '21
Vinitra Swamy, '17 (M.S. '18)
Uday Thoota
The Stier Family
Ann Schlaffman
Questions about the Data 8 10-year anniversary or supporting data science? Contact Brandilyn Buckley, DSUS Communications Director, at brandilyn@berkeley.edu.