What We Do
Mentor presentation during the 2019 student workshop.
DataJam mentors are college students who have an interest in big data and are interested in helping high school and community college students with all aspects of participation in the DataJam. As indicated in the list below, DataJam mentors have come from a wide variety of backgrounds with many different interests. We are now training DataJam mentors at universities across the country!
DataJam mentors are available to assist DataJam teams throughout the academic year. All DataJam mentor sessions are conducted on Zoom. In the Fall mentors can visit with your team and give a presentation about what the DataJam is all about and how a middle school, high school, afterschool program or community college can put together a DataJam team and become involved. Throughout the Fall, the DataJam mentors are available to work with teams to help each team come up with a question they would like to ask for their DataJam project, formulate a hypothesis and find datasets that will allow them to test their hypothesis. As DataJam teams start to work on their projects, the mentors are available to provide guidance with how to visualize data, analyze data and interpret the findings of data analyses. In the spring mentors can provide further guidance on how to put together an effective poster and presentation.
At each step of the way, the DataJam mentors are available to assist DataJam teams. We work hard to pair a consistent mentor with a team so you get to know each other and can work well together. Arrangements can be made to meet with a mentor on a specific day/time by emailing datajam@thedatajam.org.
Meet Our Mentors
Zac Lindquist
Hey! My name is Zac Lindquist and I am a first year student at the University of Pittsburgh majoring in neuroscience and minoring in chemistry and (hopefully) statistics. I am also a UTA for a SEA-PHAGES lab, and am looking to be involved in neurological research here at Pitt. I am from Bemus Point, New York. I was a swimmer throughout high school, and I enjoy boating, walking, skiing, and, of course, swimming. I became involved in DataJam through an honors program, and am happy to be a part of this organization. Feel free to reach out with any questions you may have!
Andrew Lindros
Hi, my name is Andrew Lindros and I am a freshman at the University of Pittsburgh. I am undeclared in the school of Dietrich Arts and Sciences. I enjoy working with data and statistics in a variety of fields. Sports are a major topic of interest for me, and they are filled with data that can be analyzed and applied to in game trends. I am looking forward to DataJam and am excited to meet all the competitors!
Bhaskar Chakrabarti
Hi there! My name is Bhaskar Chakrabarti and I am a sophomore at the University of Pittsburgh majoring in Neuroscience with minors in Chemistry and Applied Statistics, as well as a Certificate in Conceptual Foundations of Medicine. Outside of classes, I am a Clinical Research Assistant at UPMC studying Multiple Sclerosis, work as a Dietrich School Student Ambassador, and am a leader in Science Olympiad at Pitt. I am from New York City where in high school I was heavily involved in Science Olympiad and conducted neuroscience research at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine, which allowed me to get early experience in developing and presenting original research. In my free time, I enjoy photography and going on long bike rides. I can't wait to help you use data science to answer any question you come up with!
Sara Reguera
Hi! My name is Sara, and I am a junior at the University of Pittsburgh. I am majoring in Molecular Biology and Statistics and minoring in French. Outside school, I love watching sports, hanging out with friends, and reading! I am excited to be a DataJam mentor because I did not learn any statistics until my senior year of high school, and I wish I had an opportunity like this as a high school student. I am excited to use my love for statistics to help mentor in DataJam and look forward to meeting you all!
Leon Xu
Hi! My name is Leon Xu and I am currently a junior Data Science major, aiming for a bachelors degree. I like long walks, shopping around, and reading. As a DataJam mentor, it will be a pleasure to help build the next generation of data scientists, engineers, and more.
Ayush Sridhar
Hey there! I’m Ayush Sridhar and I’m a junior at the University of Pittsburgh studying data science and minoring in music. Outside of classes, I love playing the guitar, cooking, spending time with my family, and being a DataJam mentor! I look forward to working alongside you and furthering our data science knowledge together!
Amasha Wickramasinghe
Hi! My name is Amasha Wickramasinghe, and I am a junior majoring in biology and minoring in chemistry and applied statistics at Pitt. I hope to pursue a career in public health, specifically biostatistics, so understanding how to use data to work through health-related crises/issues is especially important to me. Beyond school, I love to listen to music (my favorite genres are R&B and rock J), draw, and spend time with my friends. I am beyond excited to start working with you guys and your projects for DataJam!
Steven Sahar
Hi. I'm Steven Sahar, currently a senior at UC San Diego, where I'm pursuing a degree in Data Science. I'm drawn to this field because it offers countless ways to interpret data, and uncovering meaningful insights from complex datasets is immensely satisfying. Through this experience, I hope not only to share my knowledge as a mentor but also to learn from the people involved. I believe that engaging with others' perspectives and problem-solving approaches will help me grow and deepen my understanding of the data science field.
Avery Makoid
Hi! I'm Avery, a current senior at the University of Pittsburgh, majoring in Natural Sciences with a focus in Statistics and a minor in Economics. I am involved in the Women's Club Soccer Team, the Women in Economics Club, and now, DataJam! In my free time, I love traveling and trying new things. I'm excited to bring what I've learned about the community and subject to my DataJam team, and can’t wait to meet everyone!
Isaiah Loeb
My name is Isaiah Loeb! I am a first-year student at Pitt looking to major in psychology. I am from Madison Wisconsin (Go Packers). I love to snowboard, listen to music and watch and talk about movies. I am super interested in stats, solving big problems with numbers, and I'm always excited to learn more!
Jacques du Plooy
My name is Jacques du Plooy, I am a international student from South Africa attending Caldwell University. I am doing a double major in Business Analytics and English and I am in my senior year. I enjoy hiking, golfing, and swimming. I became involved in DataJam through my Business Analytics program, and I am happy to be part of the organization. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out.
Jorge Gonzalez
My name is Jorge Gonzalez, and I am a Senior student-athlete at Caldwell University. I am currently majoring in Computer Science and minoring in Business Analytics and Sports Management. I play on our collegiate football team as a Defensive lineman. I am also the current treasurer of our Sports Management club. I am super excited to start teaching lessons that I am passionate about to others who are thrilled to learn about innovative and interesting topics!
Narayan Khanal
Hi everyone! My name is Narayan Khanal, and I’m a senior majoring in Computer Science with a minor in Business Analytics at Caldwell University. I’m passionate about combining technology and business to create smarter solutions and help organizations grow. Alongside my studies, I’ve gained hands-on experience in IT support, tutoring, and mentoring students in programming and problem-solving. I’m excited to be a Data Jam mentor and look forward to supporting you as we explore how data and technology can make a real impact.
Samyak Paudel
Hey! My name is Samyak Paudel. I’m an international student from Nepal and currently a junior at Caldwell University, majoring in Supply Chain Management and Business Analytics. I’m passionate about exploring logistics as an analytical challenge—breaking down complex systems and finding efficient, data-driven solutions. I’m excited to join the DataJam team, collaborating with peers, and expanding my knowledge of data analysis in real-world problem-solving.
Shrawan Acharya
My name is Shrawan Acharya, and I am currently majoring in Accounting and Business Analytics. I am originally from Nepal, and outside of academics, I enjoy watching movies especially mystery thrillers and sci-fi thrillers. I became involved in DataJam through my Business Analytics course, and I’ve developed a strong interest in working with data and statistics, particularly in areas related to accounting and finance. I’m excited about the upcoming DataJam season and look forward to being a valuable and supportive member of your team and project!
Nathan Park
Hello everybody! My name is Nathan, I'm a third year Applied Math major and DSC minor at UC San Diego. I'm enthusiastic about helping people learn, and this seems like a great opportunity to be involved! In my free time, I like to build things, watch movies, and play games.
Jacob Doan
My name is Jacob Doan. It is a pleasure to meet you. I am a third-year undergraduate currently pursuing a B.S. in Data Science at UC San Diego. With a strong interest in computer science, AI, and statistics, I discovered Data Science to be the perfect blend of those fields. The best part about this profession is having the ability to explore data-driven questions across a limitless range of topics whenever I want. I have the freedom to explore serious issues like surgical anesthesia modeling and theory of mind, to more casual interests like RNG probabilities in gaming, restaurant trends, or whatever happens to catch my curiosity on that day!
Marcos Lopez
Hey! My name is Marcos Lopez and I am a second year student at the University of California- San Diego studying data science. I am a big basketball fan, both playing and watching, and love to look at stats and analyze the data within the sport. Outside of school I love to hang out with friends, travel, and watch movies. This will be my first DataJam and I look forward to developing my skills and knowledge alongside all of you.
Nadine Orriss
Nadine Orriss is a fourth-year Data Science student at UC San Diego with a strong interest in applying data science to healthcare. She is currently completing her capstone through the Jacobs Center for Health Innovation, where her research explores the use of large language models in healthcare. Beyond academics, Nadine volunteers with UCSD Health and Scripps Memorial Hospital Encinitas, gaining first-hand experience in clinical settings as she transitions toward a career in healthcare. She also volunteers at REINS Therapeutic Riding Center, where she works with children and adults with disabilities. Passionate about using data to make the world more equitable and accessible, she hopes to bridge technology and compassion in the healthcare space. When she’s not studying, Nadine enjoys iced matchas, Lagree classes, and spending time with her chocolate Lab, Maverick!
Keanu Ventura
Hey! My name is Keanu Ventura, and I am from Kailua, Hawaii. I'm a Junior at the University of California San Diego, majoring in data science and minoring in cognitive science. My high school AP Comp Sci teacher was the first to introduce me to programming, and I immediately fell in love with the problem-solving and creativity behind it. Since then, I’ve especially enjoyed exploring sports analytics and creating projects using data from sports. Outside of academics, I enjoy playing and watching sports such as basketball, pickleball, volleyball, and football. I'm excited to help mentor students and spark the same passion for data science that my high school teacher sparked in me!
Dhruv Patel
Dhruv Patel is a Data Science student at the University of California, San Diego, with a strong focus on applied machine learning, data visualization, and ethical data practices. He has hands-on experience working with large-scale datasets in Python, R, and SQL, and has developed interactive dashboards and GIS-based projects that turn complex data into clear insights. Dhruv is passionate about mentoring others in understanding data-driven thinking and building analytical confidence through real-world projects.
Shruti Yamala
My name is Shruti Yamala, and I am a fourth-year Data Science major, and Business Econ minor, from UCSD and super happy to work with you all! I'm originally from Chicago, have one younger brother, and love going on hikes, playing pickleball, and cooking/trying new foods. Right now, I'm working on my Data Science capstone project focused on digital twins in healthcare which has been super interesting. I'm always interested in using my technical knowledge and growing skills for a variety of applications, which is one of the main reasons I'm looking forward to being a DataJam mentor!
Ajay Rayamajhi
Hi my name is Ajay. I am a Computer Science and Business Analytics Major. I am a senior and will be graduating this semester.
Bijaya BC
Hi, my name is Bijaya BC, and I’m currently a Computer Science student at Caldwell University with a strong interest in artificial intelligence, and software development. I’ve worked on projects ranging from building web applications to conducting research on improving low-resource NLP models for the Nepali language. Outside of academics, I enjoy weight training, reading books, table tennis. I am also a huge cinephile. I’m excited to connect, share what I know, and learn from others along the way.
Bimarsha Thapa
Hi, I’m Bimarsha Thapa, a junior in business analytics at Caldwell University. I am passionate about learning and exploring new ideas, new places. I challenge myself to grow both academically and personally. I’m excited to engage, participate, and share ideas with you all as we learn together.
Crystal Nunes
Hello! My name is Crystal Nunes and from Northern New Jersey. I am currently a senior at the University of Pittsburgh. I' m a double degree student currently pursuing a B.A. in Studio Arts and a B.S. in Natural Sciences. In my free time, I really enjoy reading, cross stitching, and cooking. I look forward to meeting and working with you all this year!
Dibas Dauliya
Hi! My name is Dibas. I’m a senior at Caldwell University, double majoring in Computer Science and Business Analytics. I’m originally from Nepal. In my free time, I enjoy coding and watching YouTube. I look forward to working with you!
Fatimat Dauda
Hey, I’m Fatimat Dauda , I study Business Analytics with a minor in Healthcare Administration at Caldwell university ,I love Grey’s Anatomy, sports, and fun fact tall bridges terrify me more than messy datasets.
Jason Dichter
Hi, I’m Jason Dichter, and I'm a senior at the University of Pittsburgh majoring in Computational Biology, with minors in Chemistry and Economics. I'm on a pre-medicine route, but I love exploring the connections between different fields. My analytical skills started in sports analytics but extend to clinical trial and medical data analysis. When I’m not studying, you can find me cooking, watching/playing sports, planning my next travel, but most likely I’m eating ice cream. I'm looking forward to both teaching what I know and learning from everyone's diverse experiences.
Joey Stuter
Hello! My name is Joey Stuter, I'm a recent graduate of the University of Pittsburgh with a B.A. in global and popular music studies and minors in chemistry and Portuguese. Outside of academics, I enjoy outdoor photography, listening to and playing music, and playing video games. I have many personal and professional interests, but the two constants between them are a love of education and using quality data to answer important questions. I'm excited to bring my skills and experience to this year's DataJam as a mentor!
Kelvin Adjei
Hi everyone! My name is Kelvin, and I’m currently a junior at Caldwell University majoring in Business Analytics with a minor in Supply Chain Management. I enjoy working with data, building dashboards, and using tools like Excel, Power BI, and SQL to solve problems and tell stories with numbers. Outside of school, I’ve gained experience through projects and internships in supply chain and forecasting, which have really sharpened my skills in analysis and teamwork. I’m originally from Ghana (though I haven’t been there yet), and I enjoy traveling, going to the gym, and music. I’m excited to learn and grow alongside all of you this semester!
Krenjila Sharma
Hi everyone! My name is Krenjila Sharma, and I’m a junior at Caldwell University pursuing a double major in Business Analytics and Computer Science. I currently work as a Lab Manager and Research Assistant at the CogAI Research Lab, where I help manage projects on data-driven research and technology. Beyond academics, I’m actively involved in clubs like Women in STEM and Google Developer Group, where I enjoy combining creativity with leadership. Outside of school, I’ve gained internship experience in business analytics and development, and I’m passionate about exploring how technology and data can solve real-world problems.
Ryan Schreyer
My name is Ryan Schreyer and I am a senior at the University of Pittsburgh majoring in Finance and Accounting. I am in the honors college and pursuing a certificate in International Business. I am the President of Alpha Sigma Phi Fraternity at Pitt and the President of the Soccer for Social Change Club in which I coach a soccer team of 9-11 year olds. I am from Central New Jersey and I love pizza and the Green Bay Packers.
Saugat Karki
Hello, my name is Saugat Karki. I am passionate about new technologies, data science, and problem-solving, with a strong interest in applying innovative approaches to real-world challenges. I enjoy continuous learning and exploring ways to connect technical skills with meaningful impact. Outside of academics and professional work, I value family time, personal growth, and staying curious about new ideas and opportunities. I look forward to engaging with you all and sharing knowledge throughout this experience.
Shanya Poudyal
Hi everyone! I’m Shanya, a senior at Caldwell University double majoring Business Analytics and Computer Information Systems. I’m an international student from Nepal, and one of the most exciting parts of my journey has been discovering how data can be used to explore so many different topics. I’m passionate about working with data and aspire to become a data or business analyst, and I’m excited to help you see how data goes beyond spreadsheets, turning numbers into stories, ideas, and solutions that matter.
Outside of school, I love dancing and painting, which let me bring creativity into my everyday life. I’m really looking forward to meeting you all and seeing the creativity you bring to the table!
Shreeshma Pokhrel
Hi everyone, my name is Shreeshma Pokhrel. I’m a senior at Caldwell University, majoring in Accounting and Business Analytics. I enjoy working with numbers and analyzing data to solve problems. In the future, I plan to pursue a career as a data analyst, with a focus on the accounting side. I’m excited to be part of the DataJam Mentor Program and look forward to working and learning together.
Sisham Pokharel
Hi everyone! My name is Sisham. I’m currently a senior at Caldwell University majoring in Business Analytics, with interests in technology and literature. Outside of classes, I enjoy reading, traveling, fitness and love trying new cuisines. I’m excited to get to know all of you and learn together.
Srijita Poudel
Hi, I am Srijita. I am a senior majoring in Accounting and Business Analytics. I plan to become a CPA.I am from Nepal, and I really love traveling and I spend most of my money on getting sushi.
Stephan Mirtchev
Hi! I’m a Mathematics major at the University of Pittsburgh, with an extra focus into Data Science, Logistics, and AI (especially on how those fields intersect!) You can often find me discussing those topics with friends, playing the clarinet in a chamber ensemble, or singing as a bass in a capella! I hope we can get along!
Steven Espinoza Arango
Hi everyone, my name is Steven Espinoza. I am currently a senior at Caldwell University, pursuing a degree in Business Analytics with a minor in Criminal Justice. Outside of academics, I enjoy listening to music and playing soccer during my free time. My long-term goal is to integrate my civilian education with my military experience to pursue a career in law enforcement, while continuing to apply my analytical skills. I am really happy to join the Data Jam team and have a great year!
Sumayyah Borders
Hello! My name is Sumayyah Borders, and I am a senior at Pitt majoring in Computational Biology. I have plenty of interest and experience in machine learning which has in term fueled my love for all things involving data. Outside of academics, I enjoy hiking, trying new food, crocheting, reading, and all things music. I am super excited to be a DataJam mentor this year and cannot wait to work with and meet you all!
Sumikshya Sigdel
Hi everyone! My name is Sumikshya Sigdel, and I’m a senior majoring in Business Analytics and Accounting. Alongside my studies, I work in the IT department on campus, which has given me a great mix of technical and business experience. I’m really passionate about building my career at the intersection of data, technology, and finance, and I’m excited to bring that energy here. I can’t wait to be a mentor for the Data Jam course and share what I’ve learned while also learning from all of you!
Tara Kanwar Yogi
Hi, I’m Tara Kanwar Yogi, an international student from Nepal, currently majoring in Business Analytics at Caldwell University. I’m passionate about working with data and aspire to become a data analyst in the medical field, where I can use analytics to improve healthcare decision-making and patient outcomes.
Outside of academics, I enjoy playing cricket, soccer, and table tennis, as well as reading novels and watching documentaries. I’m excited to be here as a mentor and to support student in exploring how data can be used in real-world problems!”
Tyler Dendy
I’m Tyler Dendy, from Ossining, NY. Basketball has always been a big part of my life—I enjoy both playing and watching the game. Beyond just playing, I’m passionate about coaching and training the next generation of players, and I’m proud to be a coach with the PDH AAU team. When I’m not on the court, I love spending quality time with my family, going to the beach to relax, and exploring new cities on trips.
One interesting thing about me is that I really enjoy playing chess; it’s a great way to challenge my mind and think strategically. I’m currently a senior in college, majoring in Business Analytics with a minor in Sports Management.
Looking ahead, my biggest goal is to become my own boss and create a business that I’m truly passionate about. I’m excited about the journey ahead and eager to turn my dreams into reality.
Brenda Li
Hi! My name is Yiqing (Brenda) Li, and I’m a second-year Ph.D. student at the Halıcıoğlu Data Science Institute at UC San Diego. My research focuses on computing education, where I build tools that integrate evidence-based psychological interventions to promote effective study behaviors and improve academic outcomes. I’m so excited to meet the students and work on some fun projects together!
Nicole Huynh
Hi! I'm a fourth-year undergrad student studying Cognitive Science at UCSD. I'm passionate about big data, BCIs, and fish!
DataJam Jordan Mentors
For the second year of DataJam Jordan, mentors were recruited from Hashemite University, specifically from the Prince El-Hassan Bin Talal Faculty of Natural Resources and Environment, as well as the Business Management School. These mentors receive specialized training in data science to effectively train and support high school students with their DataJam projects.
Zain Albahkeet
I am a second-year Hotel Management student at the Hashemite University’s Business School. I have a strong passion for environmental issues, and participating in The DataJam program was a remarkable experience that perfectly aligned with my interests.
Afnan Al-Afghani
I am a final-year student at The Hashemite University in Jordan, majoring in Land and Water Management. I intend to pursue a Master’s degree in Climate Change. I have a strong interest in reading, drawing, and community service through volunteering. I am pleased to be part of The DataJam experience, and I look forward to enhancing my skills in data analysis and contributing meaningfully to the team I mentored.
Eiman Al-Natsheh
I am a senior student at the Hashemite University in Jordan, majoring in Land and Water Management. As a mentor for The DataJam, I am guiding a team addressing health and environmental issues through data collection and analysis. I am passionate about land and water management, especially its links to sustainability, environmental protection, and data-driven decision-making. Participating in The DataJam has deepened my commitment to making a greater impact through data in the future.
Sameera Al-Samhouri
I am a fourth-year Land and Water Management student at the Hashemite University with hands-on experience in data analysis and mentorship. I participated in The DataJam program as a team supervisor, guiding four 10th-grade students in sourcing data from credible platforms and drawing meaningful insights. I am passionate about sustainable resource management, youth engagement, and scientific communication.
Qais Naser
I am a fourth-year student at the Hashemite University majoring in Water and Environmental Management. I participated in The DataJam program as a mentor. The experience inspired me to help improve my personal and professional skills, and I look forward to future participation.
Abdallah Imresh
Participating in The DataJam program was an enriching experience for me as a Geology and Environment student at Hashemite University. I gained hands-on data analysis skills, enjoyed mentoring school students, and appreciated the impact of modern learning in environmental changes.
Mahmoud Radwan
I am a student at the Hashemite University, majoring in Land Management and Environment (Agronomy). I truly enjoyed working as a supervisor, especially with such a great team by my side. It was a wonderful and insightful experience that highlighted the importance of data analysis, as it makes processes easier and more efficient
Mahmoud Sweedat
As a Land and Water Management student at The Hashemite University, I’m passionate about environmental and climate issues. I enjoy The DataJam program to make sense of real-world challenges. Beyond my studies, I create environmental awareness content on social media to inspire young people about climate and sustainability. For me, data is more than just numbers—it’s a powerful tool for storytelling and making a difference.