The Let’s Make It Count initiative is excited to welcome another Junior Ambassador for the National Census Data Competition: Rujula from North Carolina!
Our Junior Ambassador program—open to any student who submits an entry to our national competition—consists of an additional commitment to spread the word of this opportunity to other students.
Q: We’re excited to welcome you aboard as a Junior Ambassador, Rujula. Could you share a bit more about your interest in data science?
A: I’m very excited to participate too! I didn’t even know what data science was until this semester. I took a class in introductory data science, and I really enjoyed the subject. I was fascinated by how data science could be applied in so many different fields to overcome a variety of challenges.
Q: What drew you to the National Census Data Competition?
A: In my data science class, one of the case studies we explored involved trying to determine if the demographics of a county’s population were fairly represented in the county’s jury during several court cases. This inspired me to grow an interest in how data can be used to help people and populations. I first heard about the competition from my data science teacher and thought that it would be the perfect opportunity to further explore my interests. The Census is one of the most important sources of data for people and populations in the United States, so I wanted to learn more about the various ways data science is applied with the Census.
Q: For the National Census Data Competition, what topics are you exploring? What has been most meaningful so far?
A: I have been looking into how Census data affects education in the United States. There are many important programs that shape the way education is accessed throughout the country, and these programs depend on Census data for accurate distribution of funding and resources. The most meaningful part for me has been learning about how my education, and the education of countless other students like me, is impacted by the Census and its data.
Q: What advice would you give to someone thinking about joining the competition before the December 31, 2020, deadline?
A: I would say to absolutely go for it! There are no limits to your creativity with your submission, and there are so many topics you could explore. Regardless of the final result, you will be able to learn something new and exciting about a subject that you are interested in, or even discover a new passion to pursue!
Q: Your point on creativity is so true, there are so many directions a student could take the competition. Beyond the students you are recruiting, is there anything else you’d like to share with the Let’s Make it Count community?
A: The Census is one of the most important sources of data in the country, and it impacts so many aspects of our lives. It is truly amazing to have an opportunity to explore Census data and data science as a high school student. This competition not only encourages students and teachers to take an interest in data science, but it also inspires us to use data to ask crucial questions and find new solutions.
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