Ifeoluwa Lois Windapo
I am an undergraduate student at IUI, majoring in Computer Science, with a specialization in Data Science and a Minor in Math. I plan to pursue a master’s degree in Applied Data Science.
Having lived in Nigeria for ten years before moving to the U.S., I experienced firsthand the disparities in access to technology and educational resources. These experiences fueled my desire to bridge these gaps, particularly by leveraging computer and data science to address social issues and create opportunities for underserved communities.
Curiosity drives me to do most of the things I do in my life; it's one of my most important values, and it drives me to challenge myself in many areas of my life.
My internship experience both confirmed and refined my career goals. I’ve always been interested in using technology, especially data, to make a positive impact, and this experience showed me how that works in real-world settings. It reinforced my interest in data science while also showing me the importance of communication and collaboration with non-technical audiences.
Over the past year, my goals have become more focused. Initially, I wanted to explore computer science broadly, but now I’m more specifically interested in data science. I’ve built a stronger foundation through courses in Java, C++, and Python, and gained hands-on experience through my internship working with data organization and visualization. I’ve also grown professionally by networking and learning from others in the field.
This summer and moving forward, I plan to continue building my data analysis skills using tools like Excel, Tableau, and Python. I also want to work on projects to strengthen my portfolio. Additionally, I will seek out internships or research opportunities related to data science and stay involved in organizations like Women in Technology. I plan to keep improving my communication skills so I can effectively use data to support and serve communities.