UTA Libraries is gearing up for its second annual Datathon from April 13 through 14 at Nedderman Hall. The intensive 24-hour event will challenge students' critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills.
The Datathon event offers a platform for students to dive deep into the realm of data science, an increasingly vital field across various industries. Attendance is free and interested participants can register through Friday or find further details on the UTA Libraries website. If students do not have a team to join, they will be automatically placed with others.
Rubab Shahzad, data visualization librarian and the event’s director, said the Datathon is open to all majors and those outside of UTA, though participants need to be 18 or older. Teams of two to four students will be given data science challenges either with datasets or be responsible for gathering their own and coming to a solution. A provided problem statement will guide their analysis of the dataset.
Points will be allocated based on solutions, with up to $2,000 worth of prizes awarded to teams accumulating the highest scores.
In addition to the challenges, the event offers a variety of workshops ranging from introductory to advanced levels in data science, Shahzad said. Attendees can also enjoy games, giveaways and complimentary refreshments. Furthermore, the Datathon provides ample networking opportunities for participants. Successful projects will also have the chance to submit their work for publication.
Shahzad also advises attendees to come prepared with overnight essentials like blankets and laptops.
Pointing out the excitement surrounding the event, she stressed its importance as a unique opportunity centered on data science at UTA.
“Don’t take this as just a competition, it’s a full event with opportunities for networking, learning and enjoying,” Shahzad said. “Just come, make friends, learn about data science and, basically, have fun.”
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