U of T Statistical Sciences: Tell us about how you got interested in the statistics program?
Di Mu: When I was young, I had a great interest in mathematics. I really liked how you can use math to describe problems in a scientific way.
The first time I heard about statistical science was from one of my high school alumni. He told me that stats uses a mathematical model framework to explain social phenomena – and that it may be the only field that profoundly integrates social science and mathematics. That really impressed me.
After that, I did some in-depth research and finally figured out that this is what I want to do. I know there are other programs in the statistics department, but I think my program is the one that fits my needs. I'm very happy that I chose this program.
What are your next steps now that you're graduating?
In September I will be starting my grad degree in New York with the Master of Data Science program at Columbia University.
What do you find inspiring about statistics?
Using data-driven techniques to solve problems and build strategies is becoming more and more popular. Nearly all fields need data to support and confirm decision-making. For example, many statistical models have been used by governments to design COVID-19 policies.
In the industry, there’s also a huge demand for people who have skills in analytics and modelling.
It’s amazing to be able to make suggestions based on scientific methods and models, that to some extent affect people's lives. To me, that’s the magic of statistics and why I'm so glad that I chose this field.
What are your academic and career interests?
I sincerely hope to use statistical models and some knowledge techniques to help individuals, companies or even governments to reach their goals.
Last summer, I had an internship where I learned about data science. Data science intersects with stats but is superior in predicting and modelling big data. It involves more sophisticated models with the support of cutting-edge computing skills.
That's why my next step is to get a graduate degree in data science. I dream of becoming a data scientist in the industry, building models and solving problems every day that hopefully benefit people.
What advice do you have for students who are entering the statistics program?
In general, my advice is to take advantage of all the opportunities offered by this program, the department and the University.
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