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Researcher by day, musician by night

By Carla Kelly '22

“I’ve always wanted to be a researcher by day and a musician by night,” says Messiah alumna Phoebe Chua ’16, whose experiences and accomplishments following Messiah are ones worth acknowledging. Chua graduated from Messiah College with a bachelor’s degree in mathematics and triple minors in computer science, statistics and music. She also devoted her time all four years at Messiah with the Collaboratory and Multicultural Programs on campus. Chua is currently a student at The University of California, Irvine and is in the process of earning her doctoral degree in informatics.

Chua’s interest in statistics, math and computer science stemmed from her eagerness to create new technology that would empower people. One of the ways she has fulfilled this is through her position as a user experience research intern at Facebook this past summer. As a researcher, Chua plans and conducts studies, generates insights, communicates results and meets with stakeholders. At the University of California, Irvine, she currently examines the interaction of people and technology. Chua says, “My academic and professional experiences at Messiah have allowed me to become an effective and thoughtful researcher and mentor at The University of California, Irvine and Facebook.” She urges current Messiah students to take this time to not only build their professional skills, but to invest in meaningful relationships. Chua feels that her experiences at Messiah encouraged her to pursue her career and allowed her to see the value in communities like the one on Messiah’s campus. 

Chua’s love for music developed from her parents and their musical abilities. She grew up learning both piano and guitar, but she did not stop there and eventually took up the drums, as well! Chua used her musical talents not only at her home church, but also as a pianist on Messiah’s worship team. She says, “I’d like to offer a huge shout-out to Kirk Reese for inspiring my deep appreciation for jazz piano.” She says she enjoyed learning from skilled professors who helped her advance in her musical abilities and appreciated how they did so with a humble spirit.

Although it is evident that Chua’s professional responsibilities and tasks require a great deal of work, just like most of us, she enjoys participating in hobbies aside from her job. “When I’m not working, I’m typically playing Ultimate Frisbee, creating music or spending time with friends,” she says.

Chua has clearly taken her God-given talents and skills to help others. The ability to use knowledge in the math and computer science fields to better the lives of others is something that many can learn from Chua. And just as she has her dreams, everyone else has their own. Chua’s story is an encouragement to pursue your dreams. She has achieved her goal of studying technology and discovering ways it benefits the human experience. How are you going to use your gifts to bless your community?

Want to learn more?

Go here if you are interested in learning more about the mathematics at Messiah.