Student profile featured in the spring 2024 issue of the department’s equity, diversity, and inclusion newsletter.

Tell us about yourself including your nationality, ethnicity, and culture.

I was born in Guangzhou, China. While most people in Guangzhou speak Cantonese, I grew up speaking only Mandarin since neither of my parents originated in Cantonese-speaking areas. I came to the US on my own when I was 15 to attend high school in Napa, CA. After that, I did my undergrad at the UW and have been in Seattle ever since.

How did you come to be associated with the dept of Biostatistics?

During my undergraduate studies at the University of Washington, I developed a keen interest in statistical analysis and its potential to address complex health-related challenges. Therefore it came naturally to me to consider the UW Biostatistics when I search for graduate programs (plus it was highly recommended by my friends).

Tell us something we’d be surprised to know about?  Hidden talent? Superpower?

I was really into art during high school and have been considering being an artist for a while, but later I realized it's going to be hard to live on art so I decided to keep it as a hobby. 

What motivates you?

I find great satisfaction in completing tasks and achieving my goals. Additionally, the pursuit of personal and professional growth motivates me to continually push my boundaries and expand my skill set.

Who/what has inspired you the most and why?

Throughout my life, I've been fortunate to be surrounded by inspiring individuals who have influenced me in various ways. From my family and friends to mentors and teachers, each has left a mark on me. Their support and guidance have shaped who I am and continue to help me become the better version of myself.

What three words would you use to describe yourself?

I think I can use a single word, jade, to answer this question (although it's not an adjective). Both characters of my given name, Yueqi (玥琪), have the meaning of jade in Chinese. In Chinese culture, Jade holds deep cultural significance and is associated with various positive attributes such as integrity, purity, resilience, stability, and many others. These qualities align with both my mother's expectations for me and the attributes I strive to embody.