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During the four-week University of Chicago Data and Policy Summer Scholar (DPSS) Program, top global students and young professionals gain a foundation in data analytics. They also have the opportunity to build community while exploring all that Chicago has to offer. We asked the 2019 DPSS graduates to tell us about their experiences outside of the classroom. 

How would you describe the cohort experience? 

“The highlight of this program is definitely the peers that you meet. The program directors clearly put effort into recruiting. Even though the program is only four weeks, I've formed some pretty solid friendships just working through problem sets and hanging out together.”

Simon Zhang, B.S. Applied Mathematics, University of California Los Angeles

“Everybody has such a diverse range of goals and initiatives that they're pursuing. Being surrounded by different perspectives has really given me a new way to look at the world.”

Irene Franco Rubio, B.A. Journalism and Mass Communication, Public Service and Public Policy, Arizona State University

Tell us about exploring Chicago.  

“This was my first time in Chicago. It was great because I got to experience two unique environments: First, the beautiful, historic UChicago campus, which is full of great spots to study and hang out with friends. Second, the city itself, which is full of places to explore such as theaters, museums and shopping centers. The locals give good recommendations and my cohort made great company.”

Betty Wang, B.A.  Business Management and English Literature, University of Western Ontario

“While in Chicago, my cohort and I emerged ourselves in different activities. We explored the city and its many neighborhoods, trying all kinds of different food and cultural activities. We also enjoyed the nightlife and other entertainment that this city has to offer.”

Mayra Hoyos Benitez, B.A. International Relations and Political Science, Universidad De Monterrey

“In the Hyde Park neighborhood, where the campus is located, we went to Promontory Point and had a picnic there in the grass facing Lake Michigan. That was really nice to relax together. We did get to explore the greater Chicago as well, especially some of the touristy areas like the Bean in Millennium Park. We also went to the Art Institute–that was really cool.”

Simon Zhang, B.S. Applied Mathematics, University of California Los Angeles

What is one of the most fun memories you had with your peers and cohort? 

"The most memorable part of the program was when my cohort spent the whole day exploring Chicago on the 4th of July. We visited the Shedd Aquarium, then biked down the lakefront trail to enjoy a gorgeous view of the skyline. Then we wandered around Navy Pier and found a place to watch the fireworks over Lake Michigan. To be able to have that moment with all my friends was really meaningful."

Michael Senters, B.A. Political Science, University of Kentucky 

“Although I really enjoyed exploring the city with my cohort, I would say my favorite activity with them was definitely the photo challenge. Each week the cohort submitted photos of ourselves exploring the city, hanging around campus, etc. to compete against the photos from other cohorts. My cohort was really creative! These moments will stay with me.”

Mayra Hoyos Benitez, B.A. International Relations and Political Science, Universidad De Monterrey 

 

Click here to hear more from our alumni.

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