Journal on the application of math in real life

Personal Statement

In my elementary and high school, math and science remained my favorite subjects. I found joy and satisfaction in solving mathematical problems most of the time. While the inspiration during this time was highly vested in recording exemplary grades, the application of math in real life remained fictitious. However, I remained focused and believed that investing in mathematics in my undergraduate studies would pay the best interest in the career domain. It was not until when I was introduced to complex mathematical and statistical principles like calculus, linear algebra, and time series analysis that I almost shattered my dream of becoming a statistician. However, giving up was not an option, considering that I firmly believe there is a way where there is will.
Fortunately, as I climbed the academic ladder, my purpose in life started taking shape as math, statistics, and computer science became my cup of coffee. The introduction of operations research, design and analysis of experiments, and programming quenched my thirst for understanding the vitality of math and statistics in addressing fundamental human problems. It was fascinating to learn how the design and analysis of experiments play a pivotal role in optimizing productivity in different spheres of life. Since then, I have developed an insatiable appetite for mathematical and statistical modeling knowledge to uniquely conceive and process real-world problems. The complexity of challenges facing humanity in the vastly changing world call for a multifaceted approach that frontlines mathematical, statistical, and computing skills, and that is where my passion and potential lie.
Besides math and statistics, my computing and programming journey took off during my undergraduate classes when I realized the mutual relationship between the subjects. My curiosity about database management systems and programming is rife whenever I seek to understand daily routines such as queuing systems in banks, online money transactions, and social media. Indeed, we live in exciting times where voluminous data is produced and requires exceptional artificial and human intelligence to process it within a blink of an eye. Such times affirm Alvin Toffler’s assertion that the illiterate of the twenty-first century will be those who cannot keep learning, unlearning, and relearning. The growing interest in understanding the power behind a combination of math and science forced me to engage a college friend who introduced me to Data science.
My previous studies have equipped me with the requisite skills to pursue my Master’s degree in Data Science at Rutgers University. While pursuing my undergraduate degree in Applied Statistics with Computing at Moi University, Kenya, I majored in Algebra, Statistics, Calculus, Probability, and Programming, which inspired me to pursue Data Science. Besides possessing excellent abilities in Microsoft Excel, R, and SPSS, I have undertaken rigorous training in SQL basics and Python over the past year. However, such minor steps are unsustainable in the current competitive and dynamic labor market that demands mastery of skills.
After conducting online research on the best universities offering a Master’s in Data Science, I settled on Rutgers University- Camden for several reasons. First, it is one of the largest, oldest, and top-ranked universities in America and undoubtedly the best in New Jersey/New York. Secondly, it is a safe haven for international students with greater ambitions as it gives equal opportunity to all students globally. Notably, the University is on a mission to solve problems facing residents of local and state governments through innovative research. Therefore getting access to opportunities and resources as an international platform will be a great privilege.
In retrospect, the recent covid-19 pandemic that almost brought the world to a halt demonstrates that the future of humanity rests on the accuracy of current data-driven decisions. Big data analytics has accelerated growth in medicine, technology, and the economy. After completing my Master’s, I envision getting an opportunity to gain experience in an established organization. I hope to face human challenges like corruption and pollution head-on by developing advanced models. At the end of it all, I will embrace the culture of Rutgers University by giving back to the community by sharing knowledge and resources.
With utmost humility, I request that you acknowledge my application. Thank you.