Kyle Rasku '21 is a graduate student in health data science from Sutton, New Hampshire.
How would you explain your discipline and/or research to those unfamiliar with the subject?
Data science is a multidisciplinary field involving the application of mathematics, computer science, business knowledge and the scientific method to the transformation of large data sets into useful information and process-enriching technology innovations.
What do you wish your colleagues/friends/family knew about your work?
Science and the scientific method are essential to helping people. Human beings have limited personal experiences and we all tend towards confirmation bias. The only way to overcome that is to follow the scientific method by trying to disprove what we believe. That's the only way to develop solutions to the real-world problems we want to solve.
Have you learned/discovered anything during your experience at UNH that’s surprised you? If so, what?
I've been pleasantly surprised by the diverse backgrounds of the men and women in the new health data science program. People are coming into this field to improve the world and that's inspiring to me.
What do you consider your biggest challenge?
I wrote my first computer program in the 4th grade and spent 12 years writing software for a living, but the applied mathematics-related algorithms used in data science are some of the most complex I've attempted yet.
What motivates you?
In life I'm always motivated by the desire to learn new things, especially things that can empower people to better health access and outcomes.
What are you most proud of?
Being a nurse. I've been an RN in the state of NH for the past 7 years and I've learned so much serving patients from all walks of life. I also admire and respect the hard work and dedication of my colleagues. The nurses I know are heroes; they are truly dedicated to healing and empowering patients.
Why did you choose UNH?
UNH is a top-tier research university that just happens to be located in my home state. When I found out they would be offering the masters degree in health data science, I couldn't wait to apply.
What do you plan to do with your degree?
No matter what I do, I want it to empower patients, nurses and providers. Patients want to take control of their health care and have better outcomes. Nurses and providers want to improve access, quality and outcomes and accelerate the every-day implementation of evidence-based nursing and medicine. I know I can help and I can't wait to start.
