Ernesto: When I came to St. Edward’s, I didn’t even know how to check my e-mail. The main reason I decided to major in Computer Science was because of the professors — because of them, I knew I could do it. I took Concepts I, but I really struggled. When I took Concepts II with Dr. Baker, I didn’t understand any of it! I went to her office every time I had a problem, and she always helped me. When I was thinking about who I wanted to advise my McNair Scholars research [see below], she was the first person I thought of. She really demonstrates the university’s mission, and I admire her.
Laura: It’s easy to teach someone like Ernesto. I’d take 10 of him! He wants to learn, and he is a hard worker. When he didn’t understand something but was afraid to ask, I realized he was a bit shy, but I knew he could grasp the lessons. That’s why I teach at St. Edward’s — to give every student an opportunity to do well. When Ernesto started college, he hadn’t had the chance to learn about computer science, so he had to start at the very beginning. He has certainly embraced the opportunities here, and he has excelled. I am so proud of him.
Ernesto: When I didn’t know what to focus my research on, I went to Dr. Baker, and she suggested data mining, which is how companies use software to extract information from the mountains of data available. Because of data mining, companies are able to significantly increase profits and improve service. I evaluated four data-mining tools available for free on the Internet, and every time I got stuck, Dr. Baker helped me find the right path. My hope is that the research helps analysts and even first-time users select the most appropriate tool for their organizations.
Laura: Ernesto had to install, learn and test all four of the
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Ernesto Escareño
Associate Professor of Computer Science
Laura Baker
data-mining tools we identified. That may not seem like a lot, but it was hard work! One of the hardest parts was just narrowing it down — trying to find the usable and available tools to start the research. Now, he knows about a topic that many people are using — and will use in the future — and he understands the differences between the tools. He has already presented his paper three times, and the best part for me has been watching his confidence grow.
About McNair Scholars: The McNair Scholars program — named in honor of Challenger astronaut Ronald E. McNair — provides minority, low-income and first-generation college students with academic counseling and tutoring, research and professional conference opportunities, and help preparing for graduate school admission. To learn more, visit www.stedwards.edu/mcnair.
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