Timothy Chin (BS, '18 statistics; MS, '20 statistics) is a data scientist for Rocket Mortgage where he works on predictive modeling and machine learning solutions for the mortgage lending company. The work ranges from developing new data science models that optimize the efficiency of the mortgage process to building APIs that streamline clients for a better user experience. Chin's current tech stack includes Python, SQL, and AWS.
What is your favorite part about your current occupation/position?
I have the wonderful opportunity to work with a variety of data scientists, engineers, and analysts to solve high-impact problems in the finance and mortgage industry. Everyone brings a strong amount of technical and business knowledge from their various walks of life.
How did you get to where you are now (education, internship, mentors, chance encounters, etc.)?
I started getting involved in various academic clubs (Statistics Club, Actuarial Science Club, etc.) and going to the career fairs as early as my freshman year of undergrad. After submit countless internship applications and getting my resume reviewed at least once a semester, I landed an internship at a company at Research Park. This accelerated my knowledge in data science and provided industry-based mentorship opportunities that eventually converted into my first full-time data scientist role.
What aspects of your Illinois education have been most beneficial to your career?
There are so many ways to both passively and actively network with a campus of the size of UIUC. Passive networking included opportunities such as attending career presentations and hearing the advice of upperclassmen and professors. Active networking involved working on group projects, joining RSOs, and getting into leadership and outreach projects.
What advice would you give to current students about the professional realm?
Go above and beyond the basics what is required. This can range from additional classes that you find interesting or personal projects that you are passionate about. At the same time, always prioritize your physical and mental health in school and even after you graduate.
What did you enjoy about being a student at the University of Illinois? What was your favorite place, thing, or activity while on campus?
All the unique restaurants on Green Street! (there seems to be a new one everyone time I visit!).
Any other details or fun facts that you would like to share:
Go Illini! :)
Education Experience:
BS in Statistics and Economics '18 - Illinois
MS in Statistics '20 - Illinois
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