Megan Mason changed her major to statistics because she realized how much she enjoyed predictive modeling and data visualization.
Initially, Mason thought she wanted to work in backend programming, but she discovered a passion for modeling and data visualization, “I like it when data science and art combine to visualize results and reveal patterns.”
Mason will graduate in Fall 2026 with a statistics degree and data science minor.
Mason knew she had found the right major and fit during STAT 3010 (Intermediate Statistical Concepts and Methods) with Associate Professor Amy Froelich. Course topics included selection processes to pick variables and models.
Within the class, Mason realized, “This is what I want to do with my life.”
Other favorite courses for Mason have included:
- STAT 3410 (Introduction to the Theory of Probability and Statistics I) with Professor Arka Ghosh introduced practical applications while including examples and theory.
- STAT 4279 (Statistical Computing for Data Analysis) includes an introduction to R and emphasizes programming, which are in high demand in industry. Mason appreciates knowing she will know how to use R in the future.
Mason is also involved in the department beyond classes, serving as the Undergraduate Statistics Club’s event manager. Within her role, she coordinates with faculty and guest speakers to organize demos and workshops.
She is particularly proud of the growth of the club, as she worked with President Gwen Hammond to start the club. It has been rewarding to watch the club grow while making connections to faculty, alumni, and industry professionals.
Mason’s favorite memory at Iowa State is connected to the club. She attended the department’s fall picnic with Hammond and recruited for the club at the event.
Mason is also putting her coursework to use as a software engineer for John Deere, starting in March 2024. She uses data visualization and monitors trends in data, along with front-end web development and software engineering.