Finding Stories in Stats by Sheridan

Finding Stories in Stats by Sheridan - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

As someone drawn to words over numbers, I never imagined that statistics could tell compelling stories. My strengths have always been in social sciences, literature, and history—fields where narratives and analysis go hand in hand. In contrast, math was a subject I approached with trepidation. Concepts often felt abstract and disconnected from real-world applications, making it difficult for me to stay engaged. However, during my junior year, a lesson on statistics and probability fundamentally shifted my perspective and helped me overcome a longstanding challenge.

The turning point came when my teacher challenged the class with a problem: analyzing the correlation between poverty rates and access to climate change initiatives and resources. For the first time, math felt tangible. Beneath the data lay a narrative—a story of inequality and systemic challenges that spoke to my interests in social issues and public policy. This exploration made me realize that statistics could be a bridge between numbers and the real world, revealing patterns and stories that are often overlooked. It wasn’t just about solving equations—it was about uncovering truths.

Motivated by this discovery, I became increasingly engaged in the subject. I started to spend more time studying statistics and probability, not just to improve my grades but because I genuinely wanted to understand the material. One strategy that proved invaluable was studying with friends. Explaining problem sets aloud not only helped them but also deepened my understanding. Hearing myself work through the logic of each problem allowed me to internalize the concepts and develop a routine for solving them. This approach was particularly effective in helping me retain the material long-term, something I had struggled with in math before.

When I studied alone, I found myself gravitating toward problems that mirrored real-world issues, much like the one my teacher had assigned. For example, I looked for datasets and scenarios that connected statistics to social justice, climate change, and other topics I cared about. These exercises kept me intrigued and motivated, as I was no longer just solving abstract equations—I was exploring questions that mattered to me. This shift in mindset transformed how I approached math. It became less of a chore and more of an opportunity to engage with topics I was passionate about.

The support of my teacher also played a significant role in my journey. She often stayed after class to explain concepts I didn’t fully grasp and encouraged me to ask questions, no matter how small. Her patient guidance made a difference, especially during moments when I felt frustrated or stuck. One particular moment stands out: after an exam on the statistics and probability unit, she returned my paper with the words “Keep going!” and a smiley face at the top. It wasn’t just encouragement—it was validation that my efforts were paying off. Her belief in my potential inspired me to push myself further, not only in statistics but in other areas of math as well.

This experience taught me that math, particularly statistics, could complement my aspirations in political science and journalism. As I explored the subject, I realized how critical data analysis is in these fields. Whether reporting on election polls, analyzing economic trends, or interpreting public opinion surveys, the ability to understand and present data is essential. In journalism, where misinformation often spreads quickly, accurate data-backed reporting is a powerful tool for fostering public trust and credibility. Data journalism is a growing yet underrepresented field, making these skills even more valuable.

Beyond its practical applications, this experience also changed how I view challenges. Statistics had once seemed daunting, but by approaching it with curiosity and persistence, I not only overcame my initial struggles but also discovered a new interest. This realization has broadened my perspective on learning and growth. It reminded me that stepping outside of my comfort zone can lead to unexpected opportunities and insights.

By embracing my struggles with math and discovering the narrative power of data, I have developed a new perspective on how numerical information can shape understanding. This growth has prepared me to contribute meaningfully to public discourse, bridging the gap between data and storytelling to uphold trust in journalism. Combining analytical rigor with my passion for writing allows me to approach complex topics with depth and accuracy. I am eager to continue building on these skills, using the lessons I learned in statistics to make a meaningful impact in my future career.