Jayda Hamilton is a junior data science major from Denair, CA, whose family holds the record with the most-blood relative family members to attend PUC. To help add to her family’s list, she decided to come to PUC and spend a year with her brother, who was a senior, and be close to home.

After a family friend suggested the data science program, Jayda decided to commit to the major since she likes math a lot and wanted to study something math-related. “As I looked into data science more, I figured I would try out the program,” she shares. “And I ended up really enjoying it.” 

What do you like the most about the program? 

I enjoy learning and implementing math and programming skills into projects I can see results from. Plus, all the different classes I have to take for the data science program are super fun and challenging, my favorite combination for learning. 

How has studying at PUC been beneficial to your education and future? 

The classes prepare me for a future job, and I gained lifelong friends.

What are some valuable things you’ve learned from your program?

I’ve learned some very field-specific skills that will help in internships and my future career, such as programming languages and how to prepare presentations. 

What class have you taken that you think everyone would benefit from?

I think classes like ultimate frisbee or tennis that I’ve taken are really great to take because exercise helps you destress and take a break from all the school work that takes a toll on your mental health. 

Can you give any advice to high school students who are interested in pursuing your major? 

The first year as a data science major is more nerve-racking and full of uncertainty than anything. If you’re interested in the major, you can expect to not fully understand how everything you learn from the intro math, statistics, and programming classes all fit together for the field. As time goes on, you’re able to see the bigger picture and actually start to understand what a data science job would look like. After pushing through and sticking with it because I enjoyed the challenge, I can definitely see that it’s going to be worth it. 

Are there any activities or events your program throws during the school year? 

At least once a quarter, different professors will open their home to host a math/science department pre-vespers for food and worship. 

What is your favorite thing about being in the Pioneers family? 

My favorite thing is simply being a part of the PUC community. It is so welcoming, and I’ve been able to meet really great people and make a lot of awesome friends.