Major: Mathematics
Minor: Business
Hometown: Lincoln, Nebraska
Ty is a senior mathematics major, minoring in business at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, and a student in the Jeffrey S. Raikes School of Computer Science and Management.
“I knew I wanted to study math starting in middle school, inspired by a mentor who guided me through advanced math topics and sparked my passion,” Ty said. “In high school, participating in the Nebraska Now program at UNL reinforced this decision. When I was accepted into the Raikes School, majoring in computer science alongside math became a natural fit and complemented my interests perfectly.”
In the spring of 2025, Ty worked with his faculty sponsor, Professor Judy Walker, on a research project with his Math 417 Group Theory class. He shared that a team of students helped to provide “statistical and analytical insights to support the UNL Volleyball team, aiming to enhance team strategies and performance through data-driven analysis.”
This work involved researching the nascent topic of volleyball analytics, informed by the existing academic literature on other sports analytics with input from the Husker Volleyball program.
“One of the most impactful moments in my research has been the application of classroom concepts to solve real-world challenges. Specifically, utilizing theories and methods from my statistics, machine learning, and math coursework, such as classification algorithms, regression models, and feature selection techniques, to build predictive models,” Ty said. “The practical experience of translating theory into insights for the volleyball team has significantly deepened my understanding of these subjects and highlighted their relevance beyond the classroom.”
He found that experiential learning offered him many such opportunities to gain hands-on skills and knowledge.
“This research project has greatly enhanced my technical proficiency, particularly in data analysis and statistical modeling,” Ty added. “Being a part of this research has also taught me how to take issues with complex data and translate them into simple, practical recommendations.”
Professor Walker has provided strategic direction, feedback, and support throughout the process. “Dr. Walker has helped me bridge gaps between my theoretical knowledge and practical application, and her guidance has been invaluable in navigating both technical challenges and collaborative efforts within our research team,” Ty said.
Gaining this kind of experience in his undergraduate degree helps move him even closer to his ultimate life goals, which Ty appreciates.
“Being a part of this research has significantly developed my problem-solving skills, particularly within analytics and computer science. It has provided me with the opportunity to approach real-world problems systematically and develop a solution from scratch,” Ty said. “These skills are essential for my future career, where I want to use both computer science and analytical methods to help solve complex issues.”
