Frequently Asked Questions

Our frequently asked questions:

• What is the cost associated with the event? 

This event is free and open to all members of the Virginia Tech community and beyond.

• Will there be an option to attend virtually? 

Unfortunately, there will be no virtual attendance option this year.

• Would you like me to register? 

Yes, registration is required to have an appropriate head count for the refreshments and promotional goods. The links will be updated on the registration page.

• How much of a data science background do I need to participate? 

None. We have tried to ensure that everyone (from those with no background to experts) can get something out of the whole event. The keynote talks and career panel will be accessible to everyone. At the same time, other parts of the event will allow participants to break into smaller groups based on their interests and experience. Dinner will be at round tables, with specific topics for discussion at each table.

• I’m not a woman; can I participate?

Absolutely! Everyone is encouraged to participate. One of the event's primary goals is to support and inspire women in data science, which is best achieved through the involvement of the entire data science community. While our keynote speakers and panelists are women, their presentations will focus on data science methods and applications. We strongly encourage aspiring and current data scientists to actively engage in these important conversations.

• A teacher or guardian must accompany students under 18.

• I have a conflict for part of the event. Is it okay to attend just part of it?

Yes. We’d love to have you join us for any part of the event you are available. 

• Where can I park during the Women in Data Science (WiDS) Conference?

  • • Visitors attending the WiDS Conference can park in several locations around campus. We recommend using the following lots and garages, which are convenient for conference activities:

      • • Perry St. Parking Garage

        • Data and Decision Science Lot

        • The Inn at Virginia Tech

    • Restricted areas include ADA spaces, loading zones, service vehicle zones, timed areas, sidewalks, grass, etc.

    • Please note: You must have a valid parking permit to park on campus between 7 a.m. and 10 p.m., Monday through Friday. Visitors can park in any faculty, staff, visitor, or student space if they have a valid permit and the space is not restricted by signage.

• How do I obtain a parking pass for the event?

  • • You have several options for obtaining a parking pass:

      • • Purchase a daily permit online through the Parking Services website. (https://parking.vt.edu/parking/visitors.html)

        • Use the ParkMobile app for convenient parking payment.

        • Purchase a daily permit in person at the Parking Services office (if you plan to buy multiple permits, please visit in person).

• Where are the Data and Decision Science (DDS) and New Classroom (NCB) buildings on Virginia Tech's Campus? 

The addresses for the building locations are:

• Data and Decision Science (DDS) Address: 727 Prices Fork Rd, Blacksburg, VA 24060

• New Classroom Building (NCB) Address: 1455 Perry St, Blacksburg, VA 24061

  Additionally, here is a map to illustrate the location of the building: