Cybersecurity-CTA
Info Card - Climate and Power
Info Card - Cyber
Brenda Betancourt
Professor, University of Florida
Originally from Bogotá, Colombia, Brenda Betancourt moved to California in 2010 to pursue a Ph.D. in Statistics at a University of California. She is now an Assistant Professor at the University of Florida.
While at UC, her research focus was on applications of Bayesian statistical methods. She says that her time as a UC PhD student was life-changing for her. She learned to speak English fluently while working on her degree, and she received the mentoring, support, and education to pursue an academic career.
Today, Betancourt continues her work in Bayesian methods, with applications to interesting practical problems related to networks, entity resolution, health, and human rights.
“The best thing about the school is that it’s composed of a diverse group of students and faculty that made adapting to my new situation and getting through the Ph.D. process much easier for me.”
She also appreciated being in an environment that encouraged learning and collaboration, “without toxic competitiveness” where people are friendly and open minded.
“During my time at UC I made very good friends that I consider friends for life. I am very grateful for that as well as the professional opportunities it has brought me.”
Advice for new and continuing students? “Work hard but also enjoy your time at school and take advantage of the beauty of the place.”