Mahdieh Taher graduated from the School of Information with a master’s in information and data science in 2020. Taher worked at Gap, Paramount, and Google before transitioning to entrepreneurship. She is currently the co-founder of a stealth startup and a member of the World Economic Forum.
Why did you choose the I School?
I would say its strong reputation in data science and its alignment with my career aspirations. With a background in computer science, I began exploring the field of data science and became eager to deepen my knowledge and expertise. I was particularly attracted to the unique resources and opportunities offered by the I School and UC Berkeley, including the industry connections and hands-on learning experiences. Interestingly, I only applied to the I School, so I told myself it was going to be a hit or miss!
What was your favorite thing about the I School?
One of my favorite aspects of the I School is the strong sense of community. It’s not just the other students — the faculty are a big part of it too. Even now, I’m still in touch with my capstone advisor and my classmates. There’s this great support system where everyone’s genuinely invested in each other’s growth, which makes the whole experience so much more meaningful.
What was your favorite class?
I truly enjoyed DATA SCI 241: Experiment and Causal Inference.
Can you share any thoughts on how your identity has shaped your path?
I’ve learned that growth can be non-linear and that setbacks or obstacles are often part of the process. Embracing this reality has helped me develop perseverance, which is essential when facing adversity. Understanding that progress isn’t always immediate has allowed me to stay focused on long-term goals and adapt when necessary. This mindset has been key in overcoming difficulties and moving forward, even when things don’t go as planned.
What advice would you give your past self as an I School student? To someone interested in starting their own company?
I would encourage myself to leverage study groups from the first semester. I wish I had taken greater advantage of collaboration and problem-solving in group settings. Engaging with peers in this way can make a significant difference in both comprehension and motivation.
If you are interested in having your own company, take side projects more seriously. Side projects help you test the waters and learn a ton along the way.
