Explain your Career Path

After graduation, I was hired at Lincoln Land Community College as an Institutional Research Analyst. About a year later, I was hired by IL DoIT as an Information Systems Analyst.

What was your Major at Southeast and how would you characterize the quality of that program to prospective students?

Major: Applied Mathematics and Statistics
Minor: Data Science

The math program at SEMO is phenomenal. Every professor I had was highly personable, intelligent, and dedicated to my success. The small class sizes made my professors and fellow students feel like a family. On top of all that, extracurricular opportunities (math competitions, ASA DataFest, etc.) prepared me very well for my career.

 Why did you choose to attend Southeast?

I chose SEMO for its affordability (particularly the in-state tuition for Illinois residents). I did not know what to expect from the math department -- I got very lucky!

Who influenced you most during your time at Southeast?

Dr. Lee (no longer at SEMO) was the most valuable influence on my student career. She inspired my interest in data science and statistical programming, which remain focal points of my current career and continued learning. She embodied the curiosity-inspiring spirit that all SEMO math professors share.

Share your best college memory.

My favorite memory is ASA DataFest 2023. A fellow student (Moe Toyoda) and I traveled to Mizzou to compete in a data science competition against many universities across Missouri. Despite being by far the smallest team, we came out on top and won Best in Show. This performance was indicative of the high quality of the SEMO math department despite its small size (compared to schools like Mizzou or S&T). The next year (after I graduated), SEMO even came back and won the competition again!

What is the most important thing you learned while you were at Southeast?

At SEMO, I learned to view the world with the mindset of a mathematician. In everything I do -- from grocery shopping to statistical analysis -- I utilize the problem-solving skills I learned at the SEMO math department. This mindset has empowered me to be a curious mathematician, lifelong learner, and well-rounded individual.

Describe Southeast in three words

Intimate, Challenging, Inspiring

What advice would you give current students or recent graduates interested in pursuing a career in your professional field?

If possible, work at a university or community college. We mathematicians need an environment in which our curiosity is encouraged -- higher education is filled with people who do that daily. My first job after graduation was in a department of Institutional Research and Effectiveness (every school has one). If you like statistics like me, it's the best job in the world!