Claire Najjuuko
Division of Computational & Data Science
Degree pursuing: PhD in Computational & Data Sciences
Where did you complete your undergraduate degree?
Makerere University
Please provide your lab and description of research.
My lab is called the AI for Health lab led by Professor Chenyang Lu. Our work is centered around developing and tailoring cutting edge AI and machine learning solutions to various Healthcare and Global Health needs.
What played into your decision to get a graduate engineering degree?
My undergraduate training is in Telecommunications Engineering, so I have always had a love for Engineering, because of the solution-creation nature of Engineering. For my graduate studies, I decided to move into the data science, because it is a very interdisciplinary field, where I am able to study cutting edge data science methodologies, and apply them to real world datasets, so provide solutions to problems impacting people.
Why did you pick WashU?
I chose WashU because of its strong academic reputation, interdisciplinary approach, and supportive community. The opportunity to engage in meaningful research, and be part of a diverse and intellectually curious environment really stood out to me. I also appreciated WashU's commitment to both innovation and inclusion- it felt like a place where I could thrive academically and personally.
What is your favorite thing about St. Louis?
I love the calmness.
What advice would you give to a new student?
I would say, especially for Engineering students who have to do rotations. Be open-minded when searching for advisors; contribute to discussions in the lab, even if its just asking questions, do not be shy, people in the academic community prefer it when you say something, but of course do not just speak for the sake of it. Also please do not isolate yourself, especially when having some challenge, seek guidance and help -- it may be from a fellow student, professor, or even the graduate student ambassadors.
What campus activities or groups would you recommend to a new student?
I would recommend attend the Computer Science happy hour.
What are your plans for the future?
I am planning on first working on and completing my PhD Dissertation.