Advice about Data Science Transfer

I’m stoked to be a data science transfer student starting next fall, but I have some questions for those who are/were also data science transfers.

I noticed that there is a listed “8 quarters” required to complete the program as a transfer, but I was able to condense the program into 6 quarters through summer session and increasing the course load from 12 units to 16 units in some places.

1. Have any transfers graduated in 6 quarters by taking summer session and a busier schedule? Do you recommend (or regret) it?
2. For those who did take 8 quarters, did you find that the 2+ years was especially beneficial for you?

Any general advice is welcome regarding data science, transferring, or making the most of the opportunities on campus. Thank you!