Sona Yavrumyan, University of Bologna, Italy
What inspired you to choose an EMOS-labelled master’s programme for your studies?
When I was looking into master's programs, I was drawn to those that focused on how statistics are used in practice. The EMOS label immediately caught my attention because it pointed to a clear connection with public institutions and real-world applications. My interest in the role of data in public policy grew during my undergraduate studies, where I first saw how statistical tools could be applied to social and economic issues, so a program that combined strong academic training with opportunities to collaborate with statistical institutes felt like the right fit. Earning the EMOS certification also gave my degree an additional layer of
relevance and recognition in the field I want to work in.
During your studies, have you participated in any activities dedicated to EMOS students?
Yes, I’ve had several experiences that highlighted the value of being part of the EMOS community. It started with the Coding Lab, where I worked with students from other EMOS universities across Europe to replicate a Statistics Explained article. That collaboration led to an invitation to attend the 10th EMOS Workshop in Wiesbaden, an experience I genuinely enjoyed. It gave me the chance to understand how national statistical institutes and Eurostat operate, what kinds of challenges they face, and how EMOS helps connect academia and statistical institutes.
The workshop was also a great opportunity to meet people I had previously only seen online and to build new connections with peers and professionals. In fact, I secured my current thesis traineeship at Statistics Netherlands (CBS) through contacts I made there. Later, I presented at the NTTS 2025 conference in Brussels about my Coding Lab experience. I really appreciated the chance to engage with experts in the field and expand my professional network. EMOS has provided me with invaluable opportunities for learning and networking beyond the classroom.
Have you already completed your EMOS internship?
Yes, I have just completed my EMOS internship at Statistics Netherlands (CBS), working in the methodology department on a project applying machine learning to improve data editing in business survey statistics. I was fortunate to connect with a senior methodologist from CBS during the EMOS workshop in Wiesbaden,
which eventually led to this internship placement. Being at CBS in the Netherlands was an invaluable opportunity, and I was impressed by the institute’s professionalism and collaborative environment.
I built up knowledge under the guidance of my academic supervisor at CBS, whose vast expertise in statistical methodology and frequent feedback significantly helped to shape my approach to conducting and presenting research. I also had the chance to present my work at a student symposium at the organisation, attended by CBS statisticians, where I also met other EMOS students, learned about their projects, and exchanged ideas. The event also reflected that EMOS plays an active and integrated role within CBS.
Through this experience, I deepened my understanding of official statistics in practice, strengthened my ability to communicate complex results clearly, and expanded my network of students and professionals in the field.
Would you recommend a fellow student to choose the EMOS track at your university?
I would definitely recommend the EMOS track because it offers a wealth of valuable opportunities and experiences. Through workshops, conferences, symposiums, and the Coding Lab, students can gain practical skills while building a strong network with professionals and peers across Europe. The chance to
secure a funded internship at a renowned statistical institute is another major benefit that helps bridge academic learning with real-world application and prepare students to enter the workforce.
That said, non-EU students like myself may face additional challenges when seeking internships, and even more so when pursuing official statistics roles within EU institutions after graduation. This is not meant to discourage anyone, but rather to encourage careful planning - having a clear research focus and career plan before starting EMOS can make a significant difference.
Overall, EMOS offers invaluable opportunities for growth, learning, and networking that make it a rewarding path for anyone passionate about official statistics and data science.
July 2025
>> Find out more about the University of Bologna, Italy