Q: What does a semester look like for a Cornell Data Journal (CDJ) member?

A: At the start of the semester, members will be placed into project teams based on their preferences. From there, Project Leads will guide members through weekly meetings and checkpoints towards the goal of publishing an article on a selected topic by the end of the semester, and presenting during our Symposium.

Q: What is Symposium?

A: Symposium is CDJ's culminating event. Members create research posters based on their projects, and present their work to other CDJ members, Cornell students, and professors. The event is typically kicked off with an industry-leading guest speaker, to speak about data journalism.

Q: How are Project Leads selected?

A: The Project Lead role is typically reserved for returning members. At the beginning of the semester, they share their ideas with Leadership and–if approved–they pitch their project to the rest of the club. Impactful projects typically seek to answer some question about the world, using data as evidence.

Q: How does New Member Education (NME) work?

A: NME consists of 6 hour-long meetings. During each meeting, the instructor will walk through interactive notebooks on various data science concepts, with members following along on a forked copy. There are no “take home” assignments, nor is there baseline knowledge required. In addition to NME, there are also optional workshops that teach members miscellaneous coding and writing skills.

Q: When does G-Body take place?

A: G-Body is on Mondays, from 5-6pm.

Q: What does the application process look like?

A: Within a few days of submitting an application, students that are selected to move forward will be invited to an interview with a handful of current CDJ Leaders and members. After completing all interviews, we will send invites to join CDJ to a select batch of applicants. There will only be one “round” of interviews.

Q: Is there any technical knowledge required?

A: No. CDJ accepts students at Cornell from all backgrounds, majors, and levels of experience. We prioritize learning and exposure to the discipline of data journalism. Please do not hesitate to apply, even if you have no formal background in this field–there is a place for everyone in CDJ!

Q: Are coffee chats available?

A: Yes! A form to submit a coffee chat request will be posted on our Instagram page and on this site, at the start of the semester. Shortly after submitting the form (within 3 days), a CDJ member or Leader will reach out to you to schedule a meeting time.