Data science opening doors to real-world impact

 

Juliette Gudknecht is an analytical type who likes to solve problems.

Majoring in Physics was an obvious and fitting choice for her at Bloomsburg University. Then she discovered how Mathematics could be used to solve real-world problems.

And her sights were set.

“I took one computer science class and fell in love with programming,” says Gudknecht, a mathematics and physics dual major who plans to pursue a master’s degree in data science and become a data scientist. “I’ve always been fascinated with science, specifically astronomy. I had the same mindset most do — that (astro) physics would be too hard to pursue, or that I was bad at math. I decided to just go for it and work hard.”

That grit and determination has led to a lengthy resume of internships, summer programs, and research opportunities to include two years of analyzing NASA telescope data. All done semesters ahead of graduating next summer.

Her latest endeavors involve interning with the U.S. Department of State working on a machine learning neural network algorithm for visa applications and assisting Authentic Social as a consultant intern, leveraging her data science skills with sales analytics and improving their social media strategies.

“I love it,” Gudknecht says. “It’s a great change of pace from previous internships and class projects. I’m getting real-world experience and fostering connections to advance my career.”

Networking and real-world impact have been Gudknecht’s calling, a common thread to her vast list of out-of-classroom experiences that have included projects with Princeton, Stanford and Old Dominion universities, and most recently her machine learning internship with the federal state department.

“Basically, I’m using mass amounts of data to train the computer to work on its own,” Gudknecht says. “This involves using information for visa applications and automating some of the processes, so we can catch things better and improve our national security. It’s a super fun internship! I’ve made many connections already (with) other universities, tech companies, and federal agencies.”

Gudknecht got an earlier taste of machine learning — a branch of data science that involves building algorithms from a math model based on sample data — this past spring helping Geisinger Medical Center during the initial wave of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“I was very happy to help out,” says Gudknecht in creating machine learning algorithms from Geisinger’s (COVID-19) data to predict the curve of cases. “It’s made me very motivated to tackle real-world problems. I also found a love for healthcare informatics. I think it’s awesome I could make a difference and save lives through data science.”

Her methodic climb through physics and math into data science can be traced back to those single steps she took in gauging her initial interest in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) as a teen, bringing her to Bloomsburg.

“I’ve learned mathematical and computational skills that are very transferrable and in high demand on the job market,” Gudknecht says. “I recommend any STEM major who likes to solve problems to look into the data science program at BU. Job prospects look great for data science and the professors are amazing.”

Excited about self-driving cars and voice recognition?

What about researching human behavior using social media?Can you recognize the key features embedded in data?

The field of data science focuses on learning methods to extract meaning and the hidden truth from data. Sound interesting? It really is! It’s a combination of techniques and theories from many fields including mathematics, computers science, statistics, machine learning, pattern recognition, communication studies and ethics.

Bloomsburg University’s data science major equips you to draw conclusions from data, using knowledge of statistical inference, computational technology, data management skills and related theories. Study practical and scientific topics, learning how to carry out analyses of data through the full cycle of the investigative process. Participate in a project-based capstone course that synthesizes the skills and knowledge learned in the various disciplines that encompass data science. BU’s Department of Mathematical and Digital Sciences is ready to help you become a data scientist.

 

Retrieved from The Week Ahead 10/26/2020

Bloomsburg University Students Take Top Two Spots at Cybersecurity Event

The Pennsylvania National Guard hosted a virtual Wi-Fighter Challenge April 24 as part of DeSales University's Third Annual Cyber Security and Digital Forensics Conference. To maintain the physical interaction involved in previous exercises, the organizers mailed the first 50 participants to sign up a Raspberry Pi Kit, a mini computer popular with hardware hacking, which was the focus of the exercise. (U.S. Army National Guard courtesy photo) (Photo by Staff Sgt. Zane Craig)

Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania digital forensics majors Nelson Maher and Austin Pasquel finished one-two at the Pennsylvania National Guard Wi-Fighter Challenge on Friday, April 24. The event was part of the third annual Cyber Security and Digital Forensics Conference hosted by the Pennsylvania National Guard.

Held virtually this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the three-hour Wi-Fighter Challenge gamifies concepts to teach the foundational skills required by cybersecurity experts.
To maintain the physical interaction involved in previous exercises, the organizers mailed the first 50 participants to register a Raspberry Pi Kit, a mini-computer popular with hardware hacking, which was the focus of the exercise.

Maher and Pasquel, both of Nazareth, competed against more than 70 other contestants from 11 states. The expanded reach was the greatest benefit of the virtual event, according to organizer Capt. Sean Smith, deputy cyber team chief for the Pennsylvania National Guard.

“The key to success with the virtual event versus the live events were to communicate early and often to get individuals prepared and committed to attend,” said Smith. “We leveraged popular digital collaboration tools as a communication force multiplier.”

First-place finisher Maher entered the event to put what he learned at BU into action. “I learned how to better apply the skills taught in the digital forensics program,” said Maher. “A Raspberry PI is a small, USB powered single board computer. Due to its size, cost, and ease of use, it’s widely used in educational and enthusiast projects. “

“As someone who has done a few cyber competitions, I was very pleased with how this one turned out,” said Pasquel. “I learned how to set up and use a Raspberry Pi, a skill I have always wanted to learn. The challenges started with background info on the Pi, to how to set it up, basic Linux commands, intermediate Linux knowledge, up to the final challenge of a reverse engineering problem.”

For Maher, this area of study has always been an interest. “It’s the reason I chose BU. The maturity, age, and depth of the digital forensics program at BU completely blew the offerings from other institutions out of the water.”

After graduation this May, Maher moves right into a position. “I will start work as a junior penetration tester, but I want to continue to learn and teach others about the field.”

Pasquel, who graduates in Spring 2021, also selected BU for its digital forensics program.
“This is one of the best cybersecurity/digital forensics programs out there as the program was built from the ground up with that specific focus,” said Pasquel. “All my faculty have been great. Dr. (John) Riley has been very influential and is my adviser on my research project that has been going on for more than a year.”

Pasquel is already looking to life after graduation. “I am considering graduate and doctoral programs, Department of Defense positions (from the possibility of a DOD Cyber Scholarship), and the private sector.”

~https://archive.bloomu.edu/news-releases/20-05-06

Group of digital forensics majors receive Department of Defense Cybersecurity Scholarships

Four Bloomsburg University digital forensics majors have been awarded scholarships under the Department of Defense Cybersecurity Scholarship program. Two students were awarded returning scholarships and two were awarded new scholarships.

Due to the sensitive nature of positions, the names of the students awarded the scholarships cannot be revealed.

These coveted scholarships are only available because of BU’s designation as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education. Each cyber scholar receives full tuition, fees, a book allowance, and a stipend for living expense in exchange for civilian service at a Department of Defense agency upon graduation. The package is worth approximately $27,000 per student.

“I commend each of these cyber scholars for this impressive achievement, and also thank our faculty in the Department of Mathematical and Digital Sciences for their guidance and leadership,” said Bloomsburg University President Bashar W. Hanna. “Given these extraordinary times, it is ever more important for our students to seek opportunities in which they may find a rewarding career path. This scholarship program is one such opportunity, and I’m glad to see our own Huskies being rewarded for their great work.”

The Department of Defense Cyber Scholarship Program is authorized by Chapter 112 of title 10, United States Code, Section 2200. The purpose of the program is to support the recruitment of new cyber talent and the retention of current highly skilled professionals within the Department of Defense cyber workforce.

Additionally, this program serves to enhance the national pipeline for the development of cyber personnel by providing grants to institutions of higher education.

Center of Academic Excellence
BU is designated as a National Center of Academic Excellence (CAE) in Cyber Defense Education with a focus in the area of digital forensics. The CAE designation, jointly sponsored by the National Security Agency and the Department of Homeland Security, recognizes that Bloomsburg’s digital forensics program has met stringent criteria in regard to its digital forensics curriculum, faculty and research, as well as demonstrated an institution-wide commitment to information assurance practices and cyber defense education.
Students attending CAE designated schools become eligible to apply for related scholarships and grants through the Federal Cyber Service Scholarship for Service Program.

 ~from bloomsburgu.tumblr.com

Dr. Kokoska Helps Local High School Students Through AP Calculus Zoom Session

On Wednesday, April 15, Dr. Stephen Kokoska, Professor of MADS participated in a zoom meeting with students in the Advanced Placement Calculus classes from Central Columbia High School. Dr. Kokoska is a former AP Calculus Chief Reader and is a member of the AP Calculus Development Committee. During the meeting, Dr. Kokoska took student questions and presented some of the common students errors that occur on the AP exam.  The meeting was attended by 44 students from the Calculus 1 and Calculus 2 courses at central, taught by Mr. Jeff Osborne.  This year's exam will be given in a completely new online format because of concerns due to the coronavirus. 
~ from https://www.ccsd.cc/News

2019 COST Faculty Recognition Awards

Shown from left: Shelley Scarpino, John Riley, Eric Kahn, Barry Minemeyer, Biswajit Ray,
and Cynthia Venn.

The College of Science and Technology is proud to announce the 2019 Faculty Recognition Awards.  The award winners are Dr. Barry Minemyer and Dr. Cynthia Venn for teaching, Dr. Eric Kahn and Dr. Shelley Scarpino for scholarly activity, and Dr. Biswajit Ray and Dr. John Riley for service.

 Barry Minemyer (Mathematical and Digital Sciences)
Dr. Minemyer’s nominator highlighted the grace and skill with which Dr. Minemyer teaches his classes. Whether it be Gen Ed Courses like Math Thinking or College Algebra or STEM major courses like Calculus, Linear Algebra, or Real Analysis, Minemyer has impressed his colleagues and engaged his students. Dr. Minemyer has received praise-worthy student evaluations for preparation, enthusiasm, and instructor evaluation, even in Gen Ed courses like College Algebra. Minemyer continues to put student success at the forefront by developing online courses, teaching upper-level independent studies as needed, and working with underprepared students to improve their placement. His efforts are highly commendable for someone so early in his career at BU.

Cynthia Venn (Environment, Geographical, and Geological Sciences)
Dr. Venn’s nominator used one word to describe her: INDEFATIGABLE. Even after 23 years at BU, Dr. Venn remains an adamant advocate for student field experiences. From the Everglades to coastal California, Venn will take her students where the educational action is. Friday afternoons or spring break trips….Dr. Venn is ready with her legendary Wetlands Ecology course. And Dr. Venn has always returned with the class “field prepared”, mostly intact, and all accounted for. Venn's name is repeatedly mentioned during student exit interviews at the professor having an intensely positive effect on student’s time at BU. Her efforts to prepare our students for success are greatly appreciated.

Eric Kahn (Mathematical and Digital Sciences)
Dr. Kahn’s scholarship truly epitomizes the Teaching Scholar model and his efforts were recognized by his nominators for their scholarly depth and quality. His nominators highlighted his shifting research emphases toward accessibility of mathematics to undergraduate students and toward bolstering Inquiry-Based Learning. Kahn has published a paper on the teaching history of mathematics and a textbook that teaches mathematics and statistics through the lens of sports. He has additionally taught an invited mini-course at the 2019 Joint Mathematical Conference. He has also been an attendee and presenter at international and national conferences related to his ever-expanding research interests in the mathematics field.

Shelley Scarpino (Communication Sciences and Disorders)
Dr. Scarpino’s nominator highlighted her impactful research on communication and pre-literacy skills in children of diverse backgrounds and are at risk for poor academic outcomes. She published two papers in 2019, has one manuscript pending revisions, and another four manuscripts under review. Her research also includes six international and fifteen national presentations. She also engages students with research, with seven BU co-presenters on the aforementioned presentations. Scarpino also is a Co-PI on a 1.4 million dollar grant and her research future shines bright as her research scope broadens via local school collaborations.

Biswajit Ray (Physics and Engineering Technology)
Dr. Ray’s nominators highlight his dedicated and high-quality service to his department, COST, and BU. Ray has taken the lead role in maintaining the Electronics Engineering Technology (EET) program accreditation by ABET, which will continue for another 6 years. The process is rigorous and requires a dedicated and organized leader to collect and process the self-study and follow-up reports. ABET also recognized our EET program as one of the best they have ever evaluated. Ray also relentlessly pursues new industrial members to the EET Industrial Advisory Board and manages the Co-Op program. Through accreditation and his other service efforts, Ray keeps our student success in the forefront and opportunities beyond graduation.

John Riley (Mathematical and Digital Sciences)
Dr. Riley’s nominator noted his long-standing and impactful service to the COST and the university. His largest commitment is that of BUCC chair. He is the “go to” person for all curricular matter and readily lends his talents as a keen eye for curriculum matters. He has also shown great leadership as the coordinator for the Digital Forensics program that has blossomed and now garnered national recognition. Riley gladly takes on many “behind the scenes” roles in in DF so that his colleagues can do the “glamorous” things. Riley has also served on Middle States Working Groups, General Education Task Forces, Distance Education Committees. For all his efforts, Riley has been a positive role model and shining example of collegiality and fairness across our campus community.

Recent publication and presentations

Publications
Jennifer Haney, assistant professor of EGGS and John Bodenman, professor of EGGS, published a paper entitled, "Creating Markets for Recyclable Materials: The Case of Municipal Solid Waste in Haiti" in Middle States Geographer.

Rebecca Bourgault, assistant professor EGGS, published a paper entitled, "Determination of Primary Mineral Content and Calcium Sources in Forest Soils using Electron Probe Microanalysis Mapping and Cluster Analysis", in the Soil Science Society of America journal.  This work was a collaboration with scientists from USDA Forest Service, University of Vermont, University of Massachusetts and Stockton University.

Sean Hartzell, instructor of BAHS, published a paper entitled, "A salamander survey of the Turkey Hill Oxbow, Columbia County, Pennsylvania, with comparison to historic records from an institutional collection" in Bios.

Mehdi Razzaghi, professor of MADS, published a paper entitled, "Bayesian Model Averaging for Benchmark Dose Analysisin Developmental Toxicology", in Applied Mathematics & Information Sciences.  This work was a collaboration with the University of Bahrain.

Michael Shepard, professor of EGGS, published a paper, "The bidirectional and directional hemispheric reflectance of Apollo 11 and 16 soils: Laboratory and diviner measurements" in Icarus. This work was a collaboration with researchers at the University of California, Johns Hopkins University, and the University of Arizona.

Diane Barrett, associate professor of MADS, published a paper, "Cloud Based Evidence Acquisitions in Digital Forensic Education", in the Proceedings of the EDSIG Conference.  This paper was also selected to receive a Distinguished Paper Award.

Karl Kapp, professor of Instructional Technology, published a book entitled, "Microlearning: Short and Sweet" with a MSIT graduate Robyn Defelice.

Pamela Cook and Rebecca Toothaker, assistant professors of Nursing, recently published a paper, "Nursing Students' Perceptions of Just Culture in Nursing Programs" in Nurse Educator. This was a fourteen school multi-site study.

Kyle Beyer, assistant professor of Exercise Science, had an abstract published in the Mid Atlantic Regional Chapter of the American College of Sports Medicine conference proceedings entitled, "Positional Difference in Linear Momentum During Vertical Jump in Division II College Football Players".  This work was completed by multiple exercise science graduate students.

Mindi Miller, professor of Nursing, contributed to a book chapter published in The Specialty Practice of Rehabilitation Nursing: A Core Curriculum. The book contains 25 chapters of content and was compiled and reviewed by 66 experts in the field.

Presentations
Kelly Dauber, assistant professor of Exercise Science, recently gave a talk entitled, "Ace the Face to Face: Communicating with Generation Z" at the Social and Emotional Learning in Health and Physical Education Conference in Sioux Falls, South Dakota

Kim Olszewski, associate professor of nursing, recently gave a podium presentations at the American Association of Occupational Health Professional National Conference, the National Safety Council 2019 Congress & Expo, and the Florida State Occupational Health Nurse State Conference.

22nd Annual High School Math Contest

Dr. Calhoun deals a "Game of 24"

The 22nd Annual High School Math Contest was held on Nov 12, 2019 with 168 students from 18 schools attending.  The annual competition is sponsored by the Mathematics and Digital Sciences Department (MADS) and the COST Dean's office and organized by Dr. Lisa Lister, associate professor of MADS.  This popular competition consists of three different categories or games.

The "Quiz Bowl" is a timed head to head match up between 2 teams.  The teams with the highest scores advance to the next round.  The "Brainteasers" game involves brainteasers in a test-like format and the scores of individual players are combined for an overall team score.  The "Game of 24" involves a dealer who deals out four cards from a standard deck. The teams must try to get the number 24 through addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division of the numbers on the cards.

The following are the winning teams for all three categories.  

 
Quiz Bowl: 
First - Parkland Team 1
Second - Emmaus Team 1
Third - Carlisle Team 1
Fourth - Central Mountain Team 3

Brain Teasers: 
First - Emmaus Team 1
Second - Parkland Team 1
Third - Pottsville Team 1
Fourth - Parkland Team 2

Game of 24 Points:
First - Emmaus Team 1
Second - Central Team 1
Third - Berwick Team 1
Fourth - Millville Team 1

Pottsville Team 1

Berwick Team 1

Carlisle Team 1

Central Mountain Team 3

Millville Team 1

Emmaus Team 1

Central Team 1