ASHLEY WU
Violin Performance
Statistics
About
Defined by multiple paths, Ashley Wu is a violinist and data analyst pursuing a Master of Applied Data Science at Carnegie Mellon University. Currently, Ashley is on a CMU team in collaboration with Parsons Corporation to create machine learning models for GPT prompt classification. She continues to pursue multiple paths through data engineering and music, maintaining an active music performance and practice through the position as first violin in the Aras Quartet, based in Pittsburgh, PA.
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In 2024, she received a Bachelor of Music with an Outside Field under Dr. Janna Lower, a Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a concentration in Behavioral and Cognitive Neuroscience, and a minor in Statistics.
Inspired by her interdisciplinary studies, Ashley was an active scholar in multiple programs. Ashley graduated Summa Cum Laude from the College of the Arts, having completed an honors research project under the University Scholars Program. She served as a School of Music Ambassador, Assistant Venue Manager at the University of Florida's University Auditorium, and substitute violinist for the Ocala Symphony Orchestra. She completed the International Scholars Program, completing international experiences and courses through her time at UF. She also conducted an independent research project on the intersection between musical expectation and emotion as part of the University Scholars Program, publishing her research at the UF Journal of Undergraduate Research. She previously co-authored a research paper on the effects of rhythm training on aging and cognition.
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Her enthusiasm for learning extends into her musicianship. Ashley began studying piano and violin at ages 5 and 7, respectively, and has performed with orchestras in the United States and Europe as a soloist and ensemble member. She has since focused on violin performance at the University of Florida, where she remained an active musician in her community through the Ocala Symphony Orchestra, New Music Ensemble, UF Chamber Ensembles, and UF Symphony Orchestra. Ashley regularly seeks opportunities to expand her performance capabilities, volunteering to perform in UF Undergraduate Composition Concerts and challenging herself to perform with different musical notation systems and ensembles.
Violin
The skills learned through violin practice extend beyond music performance. Dedication to practice, the ability to work in a group towards a common goal, and a critical self-evaluation are all key parts of music that can contribute to success in other fields. This includes research endeavors, high level courses, and personal creative pursuits that cultivate a well-rounded worker and individual.
Data analysis
Trained in languages such as R, Python, SQL, Databricks, and PySpark, Ashley is adept at data analytics and visualization. Her blend of music performance and statistical training allow her to connect with team members and clients, proactively solving problems and facilitating data storytelling for technical and non-technical audiences.
Communication
Communication is essential to collaboration, something Ashley has prioritized through her life. As a UF School of Music Ambassador, she learned the importance of active listening, empathy and genuine interest in others. Whether it's through writing, speaking, or performing, Ashley is passionate about connecting with others and creating something truly memorable together.