Mackenzie Wildman is a freshman at CECS, majoring in Data Science. She is a student ambassador. Keep scrolling to learn more about her and her time at CECS!
What interested you about CECS? / What brought you to CECS?
“I was interested in what CECS was doing in terms of being new. The thought process behind how it was built was intriguing to me. I have a lot of different hobbies and interests, so I liked the idea of being able to create your own degree and tap into different things—you’re not stuck to one subject matter.”
“I didn’t really know what I wanted to do exactly with my career, but I knew I wanted to do something that I liked and would be good at. I’ve always been a math and science person, so technology kind of fell into my lap. When I decided I wanted to major in data science, UT and CECS had a strong program for it that was growing. And I could see myself helping to pioneer the future of it.”
Why did you choose Data Science as your major?
“I knew that I wanted financial stability, and I’ve always been a math and science person. I think what drew me to data science was that it is going to be big in the future of work. Instead of going with something like computer science, I wanted to set myself up to be in a position where I am ahead of the curve and already prepared for the changes that are happening!”
“Working with other people has always been big for me because I’m such an extrovert. So I really do like the collaborative part [of the curriculum at CECS], especially because I’ve always been the kind of person to take charge. I thrive in an environment where I can be a leader.”
What is your favorite part about being a student ambassador?
“Being able to see some of the behind-the-scenes of the way the college works and support that in any way I can, as well as having strong relationships with faculty, has been one of my favorite parts. I think that’s been nice for my ability to be involved. When I participate in something, I like to be 100% all-in, not just halfway in, halfway out. So, working for the college has also given me that ability to be all-in, all the way.
What is the most valuable lesson you have learned as a CECS student so far?
“You have to be adaptable to things changing. That’s a big part of our college, helping people be prepared for changes. I learned that things might not go exactly to plan, but that can also foster positive outcomes that you didn’t even think of.”
“At first, I was a bit skeptical coming in because I am such a Type A, structured person. Newness is exciting but also a little scary for me. My experience so far has helped me see that if you give those new things a try, it could be beneficial to you both now and later.”
If you could tell other students one thing about CECS, what would it be?
“Don’t be scared to try out something new. You never know what could come of it if you do try. At least put one foot through the door and see what [CECS] is about. Then, you can decide whether it’s for you or not, but you’ll never know if you don’t try. Take advantage of all the opportunities in front of you, no matter what they may be.”
What do you hope to do after graduation?
“I hope to work in financial technology in New York City because I love it! I was born there, so I really hope to take what I’m learning here and apply it in the financial tech world. Also, I would love to be a part of project management, just because again, I like being able to work with other people, helping them grow in their own areas, and supporting them. I try to do that a lot in my friendships and relationships in general, so I really hope to have that in my future career in some way.”