Student Experience

Q&A: What took this Hoo from athletics to analytics?

From competing in national cheerleading events to analyzing data at NASA, Virginia Beach native Jasmine Waller has taken an uncommon path to the field of data science. Currently an assistant financial analyst, Waller is working toward a master’s degree through the University of Virginia School of Data Science’s online program.

Jasmine Waller aims to make an impact across industries, using data, AI and machine learning. (Contributed photo)

A retired professional cheerleader, Waller worked with the National Cheerleaders Association for 13 years as a head instructor, traveling the country to assist in the improvement of cheerleading programs.

Here she shares how her experiences in athletics, analytics and research have shaped her journey and how she hopes to use data science to make a difference across industries.

Q. What has been your path to the field of data science?

A. After earning my bachelor’s degree in applied mathematics, I knew I had many opportunities ahead of me, though I hadn’t yet decided which path to pursue. My analytical skills led me to a position as an assistant financial analyst at a startup, where I discovered a growing interest in analytics, data visualization and storytelling through data.

To build on that interest, I enrolled in Google’s Data Analytics course on Coursera, which gave me a clearer picture of the field and deepened my enthusiasm. Motivated to advance further, I explored graduate programs in data science and was fortunate to be admitted to the University of Virginia’s School of Data Science.

Q. Can you share your recent internship experience?

A. This past summer, I had the opportunity to intern as a contracted data scientist at NASA’s Langley Research Center through Amentum. While working under the Center of Maintenance, Operations and Engineering contract, I was tasked with analyzing 10 years of work order data to find trends, calculate asset performance and identify low-performing assets.

In collaboration with engineers, analysts and subject matter experts, I reached insightful findings and shared them in presentations with upper management on a weekly basis. While there, I also had the opportunity to tour the wind tunnels and other facilities, learning about the history of the Langley Research Center. The experience and growth developed during this internship encouraged me to continue to expand my knowledge in data science, and I hope to one day return to NASA as a full-time employee.

Q. What do you hope to do with a master’s degree in data science?

A. I hope to solve problems using data, AI and machine learning. A mentor at NASA taught me that if you have the hard and soft skills of a data scientist, you can apply them to any industry with the collaboration of subject matter experts. I want to explore and help as many people as I can through data.

Q. What excited you about UVA’s program?

A. Academic integrity, real-world projects and community. UVA is the original pioneer in having a dedicated school of data science, which puts it ahead of the curve. The accumulation of staff from different industries gives us the opportunity for realistic projects in our coursework to test the application of our knowledge.

The emphasis on community in both residential and online programs ensures that you are never on your own. There are a multitude of resources for you to use while you’re here if you only take advantage of them.

Q. What advice would you give to someone considering a master’s in data science?

A. As with any investment, do your research. I highly recommend taking an introductory analytics course or consulting with a data scientist to determine if this is something you want to explore further. From there, I would highly recommend UVA’s School of Data Science program. The online program gives flexibility, community and the opportunity to attend events on campus to extend your network in data science.