Image
Stephenson Scholar Leah Ye Sees Data Science as a Path to Better Healthcare
Leah Ye
Major: Data Science, Human Movement and Physiology Concentration
Expected Graduation Year: 2029
Hometown: Richmond, VA
As a Stephenson Bicentennial Scholar at the University of Virginia School of Data Science, Leah Ye is eager to explore the many ways data science can make a difference across disciplines. A Richmond, Virginia native studying data science with a concentration in Human Movement and Physiology, Ye sees the scholarship as an opportunity to discover her career interests, build connections within the School of Data Science community, and make the most of her time at UVA.
Drawn to data science for its interdisciplinary nature and versatility, Ye is especially interested in where the field intersects with medicine and healthcare. Whether improving treatments and clinical procedures or making healthcare operations more efficient, she hopes to use data science to create better outcomes for both patients and providers.
Beyond the classroom, Ye is involved with Human x Design x Data, Women in Medicine Initiatives, and the Society of Asian Scientists and Engineers. With the support of the Stephenson Scholarship, she looks forward to continuing to explore her interests while developing an approach to data science grounded in fairness, transparency, and responsibility.
Read on for a short Q&A with Ye about becoming a Stephenson Scholarship recipient, what drew her to data science, and how she hopes to use it to improve healthcare.
Q: What does being selected as a Stephenson Scholarship recipient mean to you personally, and how do you hope this opportunity will influence your journey at UVA?
I’m very honored to have been selected as a Stephenson Scholarship recipient. With this opportunity and support that's offered, I hope to gain more understanding of my career interests, connect with everyone in the community, and make the most of it here at the School of Data Science.
Q: When did you first realize data science was something you wanted to pursue? What sparked that interest?
My interest in data science began when I realized that I could apply it to various fields. I liked how interdisciplinary and versatile data science is and saw it as an opportunity for me to explore its many applications. As I continue learning, I hope to find what I’m most passionate about and how I can use it to make a difference.
Q: What problem or challenge would you love to use data science to help solve?
Medicine is another one of my interests I want to explore, so I hope to use data science to improve the healthcare system. From developing better treatments, improving clinical procedures, or making general operations more efficient, I want to contribute to the field by helping both the patients and providers.
Q: The School emphasizes responsible data science for the common good. What does that idea mean to you, and how do you hope to put it into practice?
For me, responsible data science means considering the impact the decisions have on individuals and communities. In DS 1001 on our topic of value, I learned how much influence it has on the world. Moving forward, I hope to approach data science with fairness, transparency, and responsibility. Being mindful of the context behind our problem as ethical choices comes with every step of the decision.
Q: What extracurriculars, clubs, or sports are you involved in?
Human x Design x Data, Women In Medicine Initiatives, and Society of Asian Scientist and Engineers.
Q: What is a fun fact or two about you?
I like making small crafts, and recently I’ve been creating costumes for my calico critters.
Learn more about the Stephenson Bicentennial Scholarship program. The Stephenson Experiential Learning Fund (SELF) supports high-impact, hands-on experiences and opportunities for BSDS students including internships, career treks, and micro-internships. For more information, please contact the Office of Student Support at stephensonscholars@virginia.edu.
Discover the data science bachelor's degree at the University of Virginia. Request more information, connect with Admissions, or start your application today.
