-By Taruna Rapaka
Amin Wu is a 24-year-old graduate who will join KAUST from the Communication University of China. Wu will join the University in the fall of 2020 as an M.S./Ph.D. candidate in the KAUST Environmental Statistics Research Group under the supervision of Professor Ying Sun. Wu wants to be a teacher or researcher and use her expertise and knowledge to make the world a better place.
She has a wide range of interests and aspires to learn how to play the violin, paint, and cook. Wu also enjoys outdoor sports, making friends, reading novels, and history books.
Why have you chosen to study an M.S./Ph.D. at KAUST?
I chose KAUST because it is an international high-level research institute and has world-class teachers and research equipment. It also has a diverse culture and high-quality student services. I believe that I can improve myself at KAUST and contribute academically.
What was your main subject during your undergraduate degree? Why did you choose it?
My major was in Information and Computing Science. Mathematics is my passion, and computer science is practical. I think the rational use of mathematics and computer science can make life more convenient and beautiful.
When did your interest in statistics arise? What are your research interests?
My interest in statistics arose during my sophomore year, as I majored in mathematics at the university, I learned some statistical knowledge. While doing some research projects, I found that many statistical methods are used widely in the industry. Statistics is efficient. I want to use my statistical knowledge to promote scientific and technological progress in the future. My research interest lies in the Spatio-temporal series and Gaussian processes.
Can you give a piece of advice to students who plan to pursue a Master’s/Ph.D. at KAUST?
They should understand their interests and strengths, be responsible for their choices, and stick to their dreams.