Janel Schermerhorn is an MSc Student at the University of Edinburgh Studying Data, Inequality & Society.
Janel Schermerhorn is currently pursuing her MSc in Data, Inequality & Society at the University of Edinburgh, a program that explores the intersection of data science, social justice, and policy.
As a podcast producer, volunteer, and advocate for inclusivity, Janel is dedicated to using data-driven insights to understand and address systemic inequalities. Through her studies, she hopes to deepen her expertise in data ethics, research methodologies, and the role of data in shaping policies that impact communities worldwide.
About the Data, Inequality & Society Course at the University of Edinburgh
The MSc in Data, Inequality & Society at the University of Edinburgh is a pioneering program designed for students interested in examining the social implications of data and how it influences economic, political, and societal structures. The course provides an interdisciplinary approach, combining social science, policy analysis, and data science to better understand how digital technologies and algorithms impact social inequality.
Janel’s coursework covers key topics such as:
- Data and Social Justice – Examining how data is used to shape policies and address disparities in access to resources.
- Ethical Data Use – Exploring the ethical considerations behind AI, automation, and big data analytics.
- Quantitative and Qualitative Research Methods – Gaining practical skills in data collection, analysis, and visualization.
Janel Schermerhorn’s Learning Goals:
Janel’s background in psychology, business consulting, and nonprofit leadership informs her passion for storytelling, inclusivity, and community building. Through this program, she aims to:
- Develop a data-driven approach to solving social inequality issues.
- Learn how to use data to advocate for marginalized communities and drive meaningful change.
- Gain skills in data visualization and research analysis to support her work in nonprofit organizations and advocacy efforts.
Connecting Research and Real-World Impact
Beyond academics, Janel continues to be involved in community-driven initiatives. As a former President of the American Women’s Club of Berlin, she worked on projects supporting local nonprofits, such as Common Ground Berlin and the AWC Berlin Charity Auction. She is also an active volunteer with Nourishing Networks’ Food Box Program, helping to address food insecurity.
Her experience as a two-time Moth Story Slam Winner reflects her dedication to storytelling as a tool for change. Whether through podcasts like Mom’s Secret Fort or research-driven policy work, Janel continues to explore the power of data, narratives, and advocacy in building stronger communities.