This month, we spotlight Naren Prakash, an aspiring statistician and researcher based in Katy, Texas. Prakash answered the following questions so we could get to know him better.
How did you become interested in statistics and/or data science?
I really enjoyed taking AP Statistics in high school, but my real interest didn’t really flourish until I took a thermodynamics class when I was in college. Though I was a biology major then, I really loved the concept of statistical entropy. I soon realized I enjoyed the mathematical portion of chemistry more than the chemistry itself, so I switched to studying statistics and the rest is history.
What do you consider your dream job?
I would love to be a statistical researcher and expert of some sort. I really want to make a contribution to the field and profession that lasts beyond my career, and, of course, gather all sorts of know-how along the way.
What do you hope understanding statistics and/or data science helps you accomplish?
I hope understanding statistics allows me to reach a point of influence where I can contribute to the betterment of society. In particular, I would like to influence policy and help churn the wheel of scientific advancement. Though this is a broad answer, I hope that growing my understanding will bring with it specific ideas I can focus on.
Is there a particular group of statisticians you would like to reach out to you?
The Houston Chapter, Section on Bayesian Statistical Science, Section on Statistical Learning and Data Science, and anyone else who’d like to talk in general!
What is your favorite hobby?
I love sports, so I am quite into modding old sports video games. I currently have heavily modded versions of several basketball, football, and soccer games (including several of each category). I like to spend my free time tinkering with game databases and textures while also making programming scripts for more precise or tedious edits.
What is something you would like people to know about you that we haven’t asked?
I’m extremely interested in statistical research, and I am looking to get involved in any way I can. If you happen to know of any opportunities for someone with a bachelor’s degree, I would really appreciate any guidance. Other than that, I’ve really enjoyed all the virtual presentations and even a conference I’ve gotten to attend through my ASA membership, and I couldn’t be happier with my decision to join.
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