“Working at Data School fundamentally changed what I wanted to do with my degree. It shaped my research interests, my Master’s profile, my thesis, and my PhD applications. I developed very high standards for what academia should look like. In terms of broader impact, what Data School does very well is breaking down the ivory tower of academia.”

Lea Stöter, PhD Candidate at University of Kassel

“My time at Data School shaped how I see privacy, algorithms, and data collection, which became a big part of my thesis. Nowadays, as a lecturer, I make sure to include that critical data aspect that Data School introduced me to in my teaching practices. In terms of broader impact, Data School truly cares about research results having societal relevance. Everyone there is always working to bring action, using academia to make a real difference in society.”

Luana Sousa, Lecturer at Hogeschool Utrecht

“I grew a lot at Data School, taking on responsibility, trying new things, and stepping out of my comfort zone. Work-wise, I learned a lot about data ethics, which helped shape the way I work at my current job and gave me a step forward. It truly made me who I am today. In terms of impact, Data School has played a key role in establishing data ethics as a serious field in public institutions, encouraging critical thinking about how we use technology, which is more important than ever.”

Lisa de Graaf, Consultant Digital Transformation at Berenschot

“Working at Data School, you’re thrown in the deep end and gain confidence in approaching people and conducting practical research. What I value most from my time there is the confidence it gave me in action research methods. I remember thinking, ‘Wow, if this is research, then I’m fully in.’ I think Data School’s true impact lies in bridging the gap between academia and huge societal challenges in a fun, valuable, and effective way.”

Sofie de Wilde de Ligny, PhD Candidate at Utrecht University

“Data School hires people with little experience because they see potential in them. That’s why so many young scholars are there – it’s one of the few places where this is possible. In that office at Drift 13, ambition thrives, and certain aspects of a researcher naturally develop. Looking back, what I appreciate most is that, at least for a time, it provides plenty of room to grow and valuable opportunities to be part of.”

Tim de Winkel, Senior Researcher at Hogeschool Utrecht