Student Spotlight: Amia Graye
Amia Graye is a first-year ScM student in the Department of Biostatistics focusing on health disparities and causal inference.
Amia Graye is a first-year Master of Science (ScM) student in the Department of Biostatistics and a member of our Department's STATCOM chapter, a volunteer organization that provides pro bono statistical consulting to local organizations.
- Hometown: Washington, D.C.
- Previous Degrees: BA in Mathematics, Georgetown University
- Current Program: Master of Science (ScM)
- Starting Year: 2024
- Area(s) of Focus: Health disparities and causal inference
How did you get interested in biostatistics?
Coming into undergrad, I was interested in going to medical school, but I really enjoyed math, so my statistics professor, who was also my mentor, introduced me to biostatistics. I attended a summer program for biostatistics that same year and have been in love ever since!
What has your experience at Johns Hopkins been like?
My journey at Hopkins has been an amazing experience. The Biostatistics Department has been very welcoming and encouraging, and I love my cohort. Everyone is always ready and willing to help and support each other, whether it’s helping with a challenging homework problem or debriefing about life during Tea-Time.
Tell us about a project you are currently working on that you are excited about.
I’ve really enjoyed being a part of the establishment of the STATCOM chapter in the Department. STATCOM stands for Statistics in the Community, and it’s a volunteer organization that provides pro bono statistical consulting to local organizations. I’m proud of the work the leadership team has done to make this organization a reality. I’m looking forward to working with other students and faculty on the service projects and making a positive impact on the local community.
What has been your favorite class so far?
My favorite class so far has been Liz Stuart’s Causal Inference in Medicine and Public Health. I’ve always been interested in causal effects, but this class gave a great overview of the general methods used in causal inference and its importance as a field in biostatistics. I would recommend this class to any student in any department as the material can be used in an array of fields and the lectures are very engaging and fun.
What advice do you have for prospective students interested in the Department of Biostatistics?
Try to connect with your cohort as early as possible! Since you are going through the program together and taking the same classes, it’s essential to lean on each other for support. We go over homework problems, study for exams, and go the Department events together. We also take time to hang out outside of the Department, like hosting game nights, going to sports events, or going out to eat. It’s important to center yourself around like-minded people with the same goals and to have balance in your academic and social life.
I’m grateful this degree gives me access to more career paths, whether it’s preparing for the job market or pursuing a higher degree.
What do you hope to do or accomplish after you graduate?
I’m undecided on what my ultimate career goal is, but I do see myself in a job in health care or government or maybe even pursuing a PhD in biostatistics. I’m grateful this degree gives me access to more career paths, whether it’s preparing for the job market or pursuing a higher degree.
What do you enjoy most about Baltimore?
I really enjoy the food scene in Baltimore. I’ve had so much fun exploring the different restaurants. And there are plenty of happy hour deals and reasonably priced restaurants, so you don’t have to break the bank. If anyone wants to go out to eat, I’m always down, so don’t be afraid to reach out!