BY OFURE EIGBE / STAFF WRITER

If you’re considering enrolling in Augustana’s Introductory Statistics course offered in the upcoming Winter 2023 semester, this article is for you! Featuring an interview with Dr. Marentette, it will provide you with information right from the source. Following the interview are tips from senior students who have already conquered the course to help you do the same–especially if you’re already feeling discouraged by the infamy of Statistics as a challenging course.

Dr. Paula Marentette, AUSTA 153 Instructor.

The Dagligtale: Do you think students can pass your course?   

Dr. Marentette: Yes, if they work towards it. Students worry that they cannot do it. That stops them from putting in the effort. Statistics is a class where you must do a little work every lecture. We do not teach calculations, but we use computers and programming techniques. We use numbers to interpret real-world problems, like mask-wearing and so on. Don’t wait for midterms to start being attentive in class. And do not worry about support. You will have student mentors and work with a group of peers to solve research problems. And the student mentors are not just for those who struggle, but are open to everyone.  

Dag: Do you believe that statistics is difficult? If so, what is your advice for students that do not think they are good at statistics?

Dr. Marentette: No, I do not think statistics is difficult in general. In this class, we will all get things wrong, but persisting will help students get them right.  

Dag: If you could give advice to first year students, what would it be? 

Dr. Marentette: It would be that if you wish to pass, you must keep pushing. 

Husna Usman, second year Law, Crime, and Justice major. Photo submitted.

Dag: When did you take Statistics? 

Husna: Winter semester, 2022.

Dag: If you could give advice to first year students, what would it be?  

Husna: Attend your classes because not doing such can reduce your marks. Also, I believe in working in teams and being on good terms with your group as it’s a fairly group work intensive course.

Ana Garcia Beltran, second year Business major. Photo submitted.

Dag: When did you take Statistics? 

Ana: Winter semester, 2022.

Dag: If you could give advice to first year students, what would it be?  

Ana: Keep your group in check! Make sure the work gets divided equally, everybody does their part well, and manage your time well! 

Adachukwu Chimaobi, third year Psychology Major. Photo Submitted.

Dag: When did you take Statistics? 

Adachukwu: Winter semester, 2022.

Dag: If you could give advice to first year students, what would it be? 

Adachukwu: I say be open-minded. Don’t box yourself in, and always be ready to be challenged. A lot of the work is teamwork, and if your team member says you did not attend, your marks will be reduced. So, it’s best to stay consistent with coming to class and contributing to group work and you will see it’s fairly doable. [Dr. Marentette] is pretty open and available, and I suggest talking to her more in person if you find yourself struggling with the coursework.

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