Undergraduate Claire Maye accelerates future opportunities through Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science program
An early start to master’s education and summer internship for Maye follow B.A. in Computer Science enrollment.
By Emma Martin
When Claire Maye arrived at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU), she didn’t expect to fast-track both her undergraduate and graduate education. Now 19, Maye is graduating a year early with a Bachelor of Arts in computer science and has already begun working towards her accelerated master’s degree in data science.
“I wanted to move past introductory courses and get to more advanced classes sooner,” Maye said. “The B.A. made that possible.”
Maye initially enrolled as a double major in political science and computer science but found herself searching for a better balance. While she enjoyed both fields, Maye was concerned about the workload. That concern quickly faded as she discovered how the disciplines could complement each other.
“My political science classes felt like a break from coding, and my coding classes felt like a break from all the reading and writing,” Maye said.
After learning about the VCU College of Engineering’s B.A. in computer science through a friend, Maye made the switch from the traditional B.S. track. The flexibility of the program allowed her to tailor coursework, focusing on classes relevant to her goals while avoiding requirements that didn’t align with her interests.
“The B.A. ended up being the perfect fit,” she said. “It gave me everything I needed without taking courses that weren’t as relevant to what I wanted to do.”
That flexibility also opened the door for Maye to begin taking graduate-level courses early, including classes in machine learning and data science. She said the opportunity to start her master’s degree ahead of schedule was a major factor in her decision.
“A master’s helps you stand out and learn more advanced, applicable skills,” Maye said. “It also opens the door to roles like project management, which I’m really interested in.”
While she is still exploring her long-term career path, Maye is drawn to roles that combine technical knowledge with human interaction. She is particularly interested in software consulting and hopes to eventually work at the intersection of data science and public policy.
“I’ve always been a people person,” Maye said. “I want to do something where I can work with others while still using my technical skills.”
This summer, Maye will take another step towards that goal as an IT intern with Rockwell Automation in Milwaukee. She credits her computer science background, along with support from VCU’s Engineering Career Services department and her involvement in the Society of Women Engineers, with helping her secure the opportunity.
For students considering a B.A. in computer science, Maye recommends the program for its flexibility and accessibility.
“It’s definitely a great way to add coding skills without committing to a full four-year computer science degree,” Maye said. “Those skills can make you a really strong candidate, no matter what career you end up in.”
The Department of Computer Science provides undergraduate and graduate students with the opportunity to perform real-world research as soon as they enroll. From designing algorithms to solving complex computing problems to working with cutting-edge AI technology, students gain understanding of many important computing topics. Browse videos and recent news from the Department of Computer Science to discover how the College of Engineering at Virginia Commonwealth University prepares the next generation of scientists and engineers for the challenges of the future.
Categories Computer Science, Student Stories, Undergraduate Student Stories