Jessica Randall
Solving Equations and Writing Code: How Math Led Me to Tech
Wednesday, 1 March 2023
Could you please introduce yourself?
Hey everyone! I'm Jessica Randall, a mathematician and beginner Android developer from beautiful Cape Town, South Africa. I'm passionate about artificial intelligence and machine learning and love nothing more than tackling complex problems head-on.
One of my lifelong goals is to help look after the next billion developers, and I'm always on the lookout for new ways to make technology more accessible to people all over the world.
When I'm not coding, you can usually find me watching the latest movies, writing blog posts, or mentoring others to help them reach their full potential. In fact, I'm super excited to have recently become a Girl Code Ambassador, and can't wait to start contributing to the community in every way I can.
So whether you're a fellow math whiz, a coding newbie, or just someone who loves a good challenge, I'm always up for a chat. Feel free to drop me a line and let's get to know each other better!
Whats your background?
Currently, my academic background is centered around Mathematics. In particular, my primary focus is on Pure Mathematics, which involves the study of fundamental mathematical concepts and their theoretical implications.
Through my studies in Pure Mathematics, I have developed a deep appreciation for the inherent beauty and elegance of mathematical structures and the insights they offer into the workings of the natural world. I have also honed my analytical and problem-solving skills, as well as my ability to reason logically and abstractly.
My coursework has covered a range of topics in Pure Mathematics, including algebra, geometry, analysis, and topology. I have studied topics such as group theory, linear algebra, differential equations, calculus, and abstract algebra. These courses have challenged me to think critically and creatively, to approach problems from multiple perspectives, and to communicate my ideas effectively.
Moreover, I have been involved in various mathematical research projects, which have further deepened my understanding of mathematical concepts and their practical applications. I have also had the opportunity to participate in mathematical competitions and conferences, which have allowed me to engage with other students and experts in the field, to learn about new developments in mathematics, and to share my own research findings.
Looking forward, I am excited to continue exploring the fascinating world of Pure Mathematics and to apply my knowledge and skills to real-world problems. I am also interested in exploring related fields such as computer science, physics, and engineering, where mathematical concepts play a crucial role in understanding complex systems and developing innovative solutions. Ultimately, I hope to make meaningful contributions to the field of Mathematics and to inspire others to pursue their own interests and passions in this fascinating and rewarding discipline.
Whats your current role?
I'm currently a full-time masters student at the University of the Western Cape. My research topic is on Topological Data Analysis in Data Science, which means I'm studying how to use topological methods to analyze complex data sets. Specifically, my research will focus on the mathematical aspects of TDA and a use case specific to TDA.
I'm really excited to be delving into this field, as I believe it has the potential to revolutionize the way we analyze data. TDA is particularly useful for analyzing large, complex data sets, which traditional statistical methods may struggle to interpret. By using topological methods to study the shapes and patterns in data sets, we can identify key features and relationships between different data points.
As part of my research, I'll be exploring the underlying theories and concepts that make TDA effective in analyzing complex data sets. I'll also be applying these concepts in a practical setting by analyzing a use case specific to TDA. This could involve analyzing gene expression data, network traffic, or social media data, depending on the data sets available and my interests.
Overall, I'm looking forward to contributing to the growing body of knowledge in this field and helping to advance our understanding of how topological methods can be used to analyze complex data sets.
Why have you decided to learn to code?
Great start! Here's a revised version that expands on your motivations and includes more specific examples:
I'll never forget the moment I decided to learn to code. Despite not having the opportunity to study computer science within my degree, I've always been drawn to challenges, and the idea of creating something out of nothing has always fascinated me.
But it wasn't until I witnessed a developer bringing a digital product to life right before my eyes that I truly became enamored with coding. I was blown away by the power of code to transform a concept into a functional, beautiful product.
Since then, I've been on a mission to hone my coding skills and create my own meaningful contributions to the world of tech. Whether it's building a mobile app that simplifies a tedious task, or designing a website that brings a new level of user experience to an industry, I'm inspired by the endless possibilities of code.
With every new challenge I tackle and every new line of code I write, I'm reminded of the incredible potential that technology has to make a positive impact on the world. And I'm grateful to be a part of this exciting field where I can make a difference by creating something beautiful out of nothing.
Do you think its important to learn to code?
Coding is when people write instructions in a special language that computers can understand and follow. Here are some reasons why it's important:
Automation: Coding can help people automate repetitive tasks so they don't have to do them over and over again. For example, a business might use code to automatically enter data or help customers with questions.
Innovation: People use coding to create new things like software or machines that can help solve problems and make life better.
Career Opportunities: Lots of companies are looking for people who know how to code, so learning to code can open up lots of job options.
Problem Solving: Coding can help people break down complicated problems into smaller parts and come up with solutions by thinking logically and creatively. This is a useful skill to have in lots of areas of life.
Digital Literacy: As more things become digital, it's important to understand how technology works. Learning to code can help people understand technology better and be more prepared for the future.
Overall, coding is an important skill that can help people work more efficiently, create new things, and prepare for the future.
Do you feel the tech industry is male dominated? How can we encourage more women into the industry?
In my opinion, the representation of women in all STEM fields, especially in my field, is considerably low. I believe that creating awareness about the vast opportunities available in the different STEM fields is crucial for promoting sustainable growth in these areas. Additionally, providing platforms for women, including preparation classes, workshops, and bootcamps, would significantly aid in navigating STEM careers with a better perspective.
Increasing female representation in STEM fields is crucial for ensuring diversity and inclusivity in these industries. Despite some progress in recent years, there is still a significant gender gap in STEM fields, and we must take proactive measures to address this issue.
One way to do this is by raising awareness about the various STEM fields and the opportunities they offer. This can be achieved through outreach programs, mentoring initiatives, and other forms of targeted communication to encourage more women to pursue STEM careers.
Furthermore, providing platforms for women to acquire relevant skills and knowledge through preparation classes, workshops, and bootcamps can empower them to navigate STEM careers with greater confidence and success. By equipping women with the necessary tools and resources, we can enable them to succeed in these fields and drive innovation and progress in the STEM industry.
In conclusion, promoting greater female representation in STEM fields requires a multifaceted approach that includes creating awareness, providing platforms for skill development, and taking proactive measures to address gender bias and discrimination. By working together towards this goal, we can create a more equitable and inclusive STEM industry that benefits everyone.
Did you struggle being a woman in the tech industry yourself?
Initially, I faced difficulties when pursuing a career in the tech industry. However, I have come to realize that having supportive mentors and a community that cares about your success and career development is crucial. Fortunately, I found an incredible Android family that has been instrumental in helping me navigate the intricacies of the tech industry, particularly with regards to Android development.
While a career in tech can be challenging, the rewards at the end of the road are immeasurable. From developing innovative solutions to tackling complex problems, the tech industry offers an opportunity to make a positive impact on the world.
The importance of a supportive community cannot be overstated in the tech industry. The guidance of mentors who have been through similar experiences can be invaluable in shaping one's career trajectory. In addition, being part of a community of like-minded individuals who share common interests can provide an invaluable source of inspiration, encouragement, and networking opportunities.
In conclusion, while pursuing a career in tech can be challenging, having a supportive community and mentors who care about your success can make all the difference. Finding a supportive community of individuals who share common interests and goals can be a powerful tool in navigating the complexities of the tech industry and achieving success in your career.
Whats the most rewarding and most challenging parts of your tech career so far?
Starting a career in tech can be intimidating, especially as a beginner. You may not be sure which area of tech you are most interested in or where you fit in. As a beginner, you may face more challenges than experienced programmers. It can be hard to measure your progress and see how far you have come.
However, the most rewarding part of a tech career is when you accomplish what you set out to do. It could be as simple as debugging a piece of code or as complex as launching a new application. Witnessing progress in your work is incredibly fulfilling, especially after hours of hard work and problem-solving.
Moreover, as you gain more experience and knowledge in the field, you will find that the challenges become more manageable. The sense of satisfaction that comes with overcoming obstacles and seeing your skills grow is a constant source of motivation in a tech career.