RECIPIENT OF THE ACTUARIAL SCIENCE SCHOLARSHIP
Jared Rubin '21, a sophomore from Airmont, NY, has always had a passion for mathematics. He is grateful for all the opportunities available to him at the University—from academics and career support that fosters the growth of STEM to campus activities that keep him connected to culture and community.
Why did you choose the University of Hartford?
I chose the University of Hartford because this magnificent institution excels in four major aspects: an excellent Mathematics Department with people who care for my academic and professional development; piano lessons at the Hartt School Community Division so I keep up with my love for music; a copious amount of support on campus for tutoring in nearly all subjects; and two rich, diverse Jewish organizations on campus, Hillel and Chabad, that help continue to foster my love for Judaism. Also, I like that this close-knit community is tucked away in New England, not too far away from my home in New York.
Have there been any professors who have helped shape your UHart experience?
My advisor, Professor Hwayeon Ryu, an assistant professor in the Mathematics Department, helps immensely with providing opportunities for me to grow academically and professionally; I attended Statfest 2018 in Amherst, Mass., an event that promoted networking and leadership amongst statisticians, data scientists, and mathematicians of underrepresented backgrounds. Also, in addition to what is covered in the classroom, Professor Ryu, along with the rest of the department, holds variable-credit independent studies that supplement coursework; this year, she is holding one on mathematical models regarding epidemiology, the study of how diseases propagate and spread.
Do you participate in any activities?
Math Club helps widen my scope of pure mathematics; Green 707 helps to widen my applied mathematical scope; Hillel and Chabad help to become connected with my ancestry and culture of Judaism, along with providing a social outlet and connecting me with like-minded peers in the Hartford area; Philosophy Club helps to keep me engaged with philosophical talks and topics; and meetings with Career Services help me to refine my resume and tailor cover letters in preparation for internships to come.
What would you like to say to the donor of your scholarship?
Thank you for believing in me, and thank you for helping to solidify my growth as a student, a future professional, and an innovator. This scholarship has shown me that I am truly on the right path towards success. Mathematics has always been a passion in my life; I hope to be able to someday show others that mathematics has a purpose outside of the classroom setting so that they will go on to innovate future industries and grow up to be future leaders.