Undergraduate

I am studying Data Science at WPI. Coming into freshman year, my initial focus was on pursuing Mechanical Engineering. However, it wasn't until my best friend, Matt, introduced me to the captivating realm of data science that I swiftly made the right decision to change majors. The Data Science curriculum has given me the opportunity to collaborate with intellectually fascinating peers. In my most recent project, a one-term FinTech endeavor with an alternative investment company based in New York City, I teamed up with students majoring in Computer Science, Mathematics, and Data Science. Our goal was to develop an interpretable investment document appraisal model. In the project, my team and I implemented text and image parsers for extracting financial metrics from deal documents and running a GPT-4 model for categorizing these documents based on their “investability’. The Data Science community is close-knit. I connected with fellow students in classes, and many of these connections have blossomed into enduring friendships and in my case my closest companion. My best advice is to get out there as much as possible. Join as many clubs as possible and organizations that interest you because having a large network has always been valuable to me, both in and outside the classroom.          

As a student in the WPI DS program, I have found the curriculum to be extremely valuable in preparing me for real-world data science challenges because of its hands-on learning approach. The program places a strong emphasis on both technical and soft skills, through its unique combination of mathematics, business, computer science, and core data science classes. This breadth of courses from a wide array of disciplines has given me the necessary tools to understand data science modeling techniques and best practices for applying them to tackle challenges in many different domains. Equally as valuable to my learning in the classroom has been my experience as the President of the Data Science Club. It has helped me grow my leadership skills, learn how to motivate other students, and work to create a collaborative and enriching environment for students in the club. By organizing events, workshops, and collaborations with companies, I have gained valuable insights and problem-solving skills that extend far beyond my technical skills. Throughout my time in the program, I’ve become more confident in not only my ability to navigate complex data landscapes but also to lead others who share my passion for the subject.

As a student passionate about the intersection of business and technology, I have found the WPI Data Science program to be a perfect combination of my interests. WPI’s project-based curriculum has equipped me with the confidence and skills necessary to pursue various internships and research experiences. My internship last summer at Travelers in Hartford, CT introduced me to the practical applications of data science and business intelligence within the insurance industry. I am excited to continue exploring the various applications of data science through additional course projects, my returning internship with Travelers this summer, and my upcoming MQP with the sports betting company DraftKings. Perhaps the most rewarding aspect of my undergraduate experience has been my time on the executive board of the Data Science Club. Through this organization, I have had the opportunity to connect and share my experiences with fellow students across a variety of departments on campus. I advise all future students to get involved and take advantage of the amazing resources within the WPI Data Science department. The tight-knit community of students, faculty, and staff at this school are always willing to help and are excited to watch you succeed!

Meet Esther Mao, '26, a true WPI rockstar!  As a Data Science & Policy Studies major, she’s all about blending theory with hands-on experience—thanks to WPI’s awesome project-based learning!  Whether she’s diving into a course project, tackling an IQP or MQP, or collaborating across disciplines, Esther’s always learning and applying her skills in the real world. 🌎

When she’s not hitting the books, Esther is all in on campus life!  She’s a proud member of Alpha Phi, the Data Science Club, Omicron Delta Kappa (National Leadership Honor Society), and serves on the School of Arts & Sciences Student Advisory Council. What’s her favorite part? Working with amazing people from all walks of life and learning from their unique perspectives!

With a ton of awards under her belt (hello, Dean’s List and Data Science Community Building Award 👏), a faculty mentor who’s helped her push boundaries (shoutout Dr. Krueger!), and a passion for making the world a better place, Esther is the ultimate GOAT 🐐 Keep an eye on this one—she’s just getting started!