ASA International Data Quest Inspires, Connects Students in Underserved Areas

Shailaja Suryawanshi, Amitava Mukherjee, and Diane Uschner, Committee on International Relations in Statistics

The American Statistical Association Committee on International Relations in Statistics celebrates the success of the ASA International Data Quest, a month-long competition designed to inspire students in underserved areas and connect them with the global statistical community. By providing access to real-world data and international mentorship, Data Quest serves as a vital bridge to help students develop their skills and turn complex data into meaningful stories.

A Healthier Approach to Data Science

Modeled as a thoughtful alternative to the high-pressure “hackathon” culture, Data Quest allows students to work asynchronously throughout the month of October. This format, inspired by the ASA DataFest and the Undergraduate Statistics Project Competition, focuses on deep engagement rather than overworking. Students collaborate in teams to analyze a data set with global relevance, culminating in video presentations that showcase their statistical insights.

Global Impact and Growth

In its first year, the competition saw strong participation across three continents, with students from Brazil (12 participants), Indonesia (100 participants at the undergraduate and master’s levels), and Türkiye (61 participants). The program’s roots are closely connected to the ASA Education Ambassador program, with ambassadors such as Paulo C. Rodrigues of Brazil, M. Fariz Fadillah Mardianto of Indonesia, and Ceylan Yozgatligil of Türkiye advocating for the program within their home countries.

“We are grateful to the American Statistical Association Committee on International Relations in Statistics for organizing this impactful Data Quest and for giving us the opportunity to turn complex data into meaningful stories,” said participant Önder Akkaya, an undergraduate statistics student at Hacettepe University in Türkiye, via LinkedIn.

To ensure the competition is inclusive of educational structures worldwide, CIRS has expanded eligibility to include both undergraduate and master’s students. This decision ensures students in regions without dedicated undergraduate statistics degrees can still participate and thrive. The competition is limited to World Bank–defined developing countries.

Collaborative Excellence

Data Quest is the result of a collaborative effort. Donna LaLonde originated the idea, and Mine Doğucu developed the vision and implemented the competition. Each year, data curators such as Wendy Martinez—who selected this year’s World Development Indicators data set from the World Bank—ensure students tackle pressing, real-world challenges. Data sets are typically provided in .csv format along with documentation details.

A network of mentors supports students throughout October with guidance on statistical methodology and effective communication. Submissions are reviewed in a two-step process: Judges evaluate entries within each country, and national winners advance to the international competition.

Winners of the competition in each of the categories (Best Data Visualization, Best Statistical Insight, Best Consideration of Ethics) receive an official certificate and a one-year ASA membership, welcoming them into the world’s largest community of statisticians.