Ryan Jensen chose to major in data science because it was a combination of what he was good at – math, statistics, and computer science. He appreciated the ability to concentrate on a specific part of data science.
As part of his concentration in data science, he was taking statistics courses. After enjoying the combination of data science and statistics courses, he added a minor in statistics.
Jensen is now a junior with a data science major and minors in statistics and computer science.
His favorite courses so far have both been with statistics assistant professor Lynna Chu. DS 3030 (Concepts and Applications of Machine Learning) taught him statistical learning methods, when to use them, and how to work with data. STAT 4279 (Statistical Computing for Data Analysis) was about how to code in R and what R can be used for.
He appreciates when coursework has real-world applications, “Seeing how your coursework turns into actually being used in the real world puts it more into perspective.”
Jensen will be a data analyst intern at Mom’s Meals in summer 2026. After graduating, he plans to become a data analyst. He is also interested in graduate school after becoming established in his career.
Beyond his internship, Jensen has worked since his freshman year. As a freshman, he worked with supply chain management assistant professor Sukrit Pal. Using Python, Jensen examined the relationship between company-provided auto insurance and driving behaviors for meal delivery apps in Hong Kong.
Jensen is also a Supplemental Instruction leader for STAT 1010. He attends class and provides additional help outside of class for students who need it.
Jensen is involved across campus in club lacrosse (previously serving as vice president), Alpha Sigma Phi fraternity, Data Science club, and Undergraduate Statistics club.