Nathan Estes on blending mathematics with ASL

Recitation leader and Aggie Math Learning Center contributor Nathan Estes is graduating with a major in mathematics and statistics and a minor in American Sign Language.  

Estes originally came to Utah State University to study physics, but after one semester, he decided to make a switch.  

“I realized what I liked about physics was the math and statistics, so I decided to switch over to the math program, and I’m glad I did because the math department here is fantastic,” Estes said.  

While not participating in undergraduate research in a traditional way, he was still able to do research for the university. 

“I did some data analysis for the Aggie Math Learning Center, so while not formal research, it was a great opportunity to apply what I was learning in my classes to real-world data,” Estes said. 

The data Estes collected was used to build a dashboard that visualizes traffic to the center to help directors gauge needs for future growth and hiring. 

Estes was also involved as an undergraduate by becoming a statistics recitation leader.  

“I have really enjoyed getting to work with a lot of different students. I’ve also found that teaching content helps me make sure that I fully understand the material so I can teach it,” Estes said.  

While in this role, Estes explained, he has enjoyed the collaboration between students and professors. 

“It’s been a fun networking opportunity, and as a people person, it’s just a fun social environment,” Estes said.  

Estes was assigned to work for Jenny Clements, a mathematics and statistics lecturer, who said he has been a phenomenal recitation leader.  

“He is extremely bright. He picks up on new information very quickly,” Clements said. 

Clements added that she appreciates his motivation to help students.  

“He’s very personable and friendly, and I feel like he creates a safe space for students to learn,” Clements said.  

In addition to this work, Estes also became a certified ASL interpreter. 

“I did ASL in high school and thought it was really cool,” Estes said. “Then, I spent some time down in Texas and met a bunch of people down there in the ASL community.” 

After finding out Utah State had an ASL minor, Estes decided to pursue it to help him get his interpreting certification.  

“As of right now, ASL is kind of a side hustle for me, but I could certainly see myself somehow combining it with statistics,” Estes said. 

Estes said some interpreting agencies look for statisticians, mathematicians and analysts.  

“That could be a nice crossover episode, if you will,” Estes said.  

Right now, Estes has joined other graduating seniors in looking for a full-time job.  

“He’s very much a dynamic learner, so if he doesn’t know how to do something, he figures it out,” Clements said. “He’s willing to dive into things, and I feel like that is something a future employer will really appreciate.” 

In the future, Estes hopes to attend graduate school, but for now, he is grateful for his time in Logan as an undergraduate. 

“I have fond memories of going to basketball, football and volleyball with my friends,” Estes said. “Cheering for our sports teams has been a huge part of my experience.” 

Estes said he will miss the fall in Logan most of all. 

“The colors are fantastic, and it’s the best part of fall semester,” Estes said.  

Estes’ biggest piece of advice for incoming students is to learn how to balance school and life. 

When not studying or working, Estes said he enjoys playing the piano and organ. 

“School shouldn’t control your life, nor should your personal life overrule school,” Estes said.