The first cohort of the Master of Computational Social Sciences (MaCSS) program has officially graduated, capping off a year-long journey of discovery, innovation and transformation.
Over the past year, these students have learned to use computational tools to answer complex questions about human behavior and the social world, a pioneering combination of technology and social science that reshapes how we understand the world.
MaCSS graduates were filled with joy and excitement as they celebrated this milestone with friends, family and faculty, being recognized not only for their academic successes, but also for their distinction as the very first group of Berkeley students to earn this degree.
Social Sciences Dean Raka Ray congratulated the graduates on their momentous achievement, telling them: “You have done it in what I always believe is the Berkeley way — Berkeley students certainly want to do well, but they also want to do good.”
The MaCSS program was made possible by a generous $5-million gift from political science alumnus and Guitar Hero founder Charles Huang, who delivered the keynote address. He spoke to the graduating class about his fond memories of his own graduation from Cal 30 years ago, offering insightful advice to them as they move forward into their next chapters.
Several student speakers also shared personal reflections of their time in the MaCSS program, expressing their gratitude for faculty advocates and the lasting bonds they’ve created through this shared experience.
“We stand here today because we refused to sink. Because when faced with the choice of standing in the lazy river or venturing into deeper waters, we chose depth. We chose growth. We chose to do more,” said MaCSS graduate David Camper. “As we move forward from this moment, remember the ocean of possibilities stretches before us. The journey doesn’t end here — this is merely where we learned to navigate new currents.”
MaCSS graduate Nayeli De Anda added: “As we close this chapter, we enter a world full of new challenges. But we now face them with new tools, with a community of people who will be there for us as long as we are willing to reach out.”
MaCSS Interim Executive Director Cathy Garza recognized the graduates not only for what they have achieved personally, but also for the strong foundation they have laid for the future of the program.
“This moment is not just about your academic accomplishments, it’s also about your courage to lead. To step into a brand new program, to help define its identity, and to leave it stronger than you found it. You have not only earned your degree, you’ve helped build a legacy.”
With this historic achievement, MaCSS students are now prepared to enter the workforce in a wide range of sectors, equipped with the unique skillset to make a real-world difference.
