Incoming Student Spotlight: Lois Ruiz

Meet Lois Ruiz (G’30): From McKinney, Texas, Ruiz is starting her Ph.D. in applied mathematics in Georgetown’s College of Arts & Sciences this fall.

Ruiz holds a bachelor’s degree in applied mathematics from Texas A&M University and worked as a tutor before applying to graduate school.

What motivated you to pursue a graduate degree?

I always loved mathematics and enjoyed learning more about it. As I approached the end of my undergraduate degree, I decided I did not want to stop learning about the subject. I decided to pursue graduate school so I could continue learning mathematics and could perhaps one day share my love of mathematics with others.

Why did you choose Georgetown?

I chose Georgetown because my mother graduated from the Georgetown School of Law, and I appreciate the structure of the applied mathematics Ph.D. program.

What are you most looking forward to during your time here?

I am looking forward to learning more about mathematics and expanding my understanding of it, while also getting a chance to be a part of the Georgetown community and explore Washington, DC.

What advice would you give to others going through the graduate school application process?

Do not doubt yourself. If you have decided to pursue a graduate degree, then pursue a graduate degree. Lay out the requirements for the programs you are applying for and work your way through meeting them to the best of your abilities, step by step, with confidence. If you can do that, you can make it into graduate school.

What are your hobbies outside of school?

Outside of school, I like to read. There is nothing quite as relaxing as settling down with a good book and getting lost within the world held by its pages. But I also enjoy practicing mixed martial arts, which I have been doing off and on since I was seven years old, and I hold a third-degree black belt.

Ready to transform your career?