Joining the Master in Applied Data Science programme at FS has truly been one of the best decisions of my life. It’s been a transformational journey – not just academically but personally and professionally. This programme gave me the confidence to follow my passion for data, helped me build a strong network, and opened doors I never imagined. If I had to decide again, I would do it in a heartbeat.
I’m someone who truly thrives on analysis. There’s something incredibly satisfying about starting with messy, unstructured data, building a clear overview, and deciding where to dig deeper. For me, analysis isn’t just a task. It feels like solving a puzzle, where every insight brings me one step closer to understanding the bigger picture. I love asking new questions, spotting trends, and figuring out how everything connects. And once I have that clarity, I enjoy translating it into a story by visualizing the results in a way that makes sense to others and supports smart decision-making.
The MADS programme allows me to do exactly that. It offers the perfect mix of technical depth and strategic thinking, giving me the chance to explore both the computational side of data science and the economic logic behind it. It goes beyond just coding or theory and teaches you how to use data to make sense of complex problems and take meaningful action.
Today, with the rise of AI tools, almost anyone can run analyses or generate charts. But what sets me apart is the ability to understand what’s happening beneath the surface. It’s not just about pushing buttons or running models to produce the output you want. It’s about understanding what the output actually means, where it comes from, and how to apply it in the right context.
The programme keeps me curious, and that’s what I love most.
One of the main reasons I chose Frankfurt School was the small, interactive classroom environment. You’re not just a face in the crowd; you really get to engage, ask questions, and grow through discussion. What makes it even more special is the diversity in the program. My classmates come from all over the world and bring completely different academic and professional backgrounds. Some studied engineering, others business or economics, and each person offers a unique perspective.
This creates a collaborative and open atmosphere where you learn just as much from your classmates as you do from your professors. Frankfurt School also offers a very practical and industry-focused approach to teaching, which I truly value. I’ve had the chance to attend inspiring events, connect with professionals working on the latest AI tools, and stay up to date with what’s happening in the tech and data world.
One of the things I love most about the MADS programme is its unique 3-day model. Instead of scattered short sessions, we spend full days on campus, which allows us to really dive into the material and stay focused without distractions. During those three days, I can fully switch into study mode. I’m engaged, concentrated, and surrounded by motivated classmates, which makes learning incredibly productive and fun.
The rest of the week, I work as a working student three days a week, and this structure fits perfectly into my routine. I know exactly when I’ll be at university and when I’ll be at work, which brings a clear rhythm to my week. It helps me stay organized and be fully present in both environments without constantly jumping between tasks.
Having this balance has made my life so much easier. It gives me space to focus on each part of my week without feeling overwhelmed, and it keeps me grounded. I still have time to breathe, to recharge, and to enjoy life outside of work and study – which I think is just as important.
If you’re thinking about taking this path, just do it. Some weeks are intense, and some projects will push you out of your comfort zone, but every moment is worth it. Even halfway through the programme, I have already grown in more ways than I expected. I feel more curious, more capable, and more excited about everything that’s still ahead. And who knows – maybe one day your blog post will help someone take the leap too.