Hector Reyes Figueroa ’19 Explores New Territory

Risk plays an important role in the life of Hector Reyes Figueroa ’19, especially when it comes to his college education. As an economics and mathematics major with an interest in actuarial science, analyzing risk and reward is a crucial part of his class work, particularly as it relates to his research.

This past summer, Hector was accepted into Notre Dame’s Research Experience for Undergraduates, where he worked closely with his advisor there to develop a Python model using a genetic algorithm to maximize return and minimize risk for companies. Hector mentions his Valpo advisor, Dan Saros, as being instrumental in his decision to pursue this research opportunity.

Risk has appeared in Hector’s life, however, even outside his classwork. When he was just 17, Hector decided to leave his home in Bayamon, Puerto Rico to study at Valpo. “It was the riskiest decision of my life,” Hector says. “After just two years here, I can say it was also the best decision of my life.”

Hector initially chose to apply to Valpo because of its actuarial program. He switched his major to mathematics and economics shortly before the start of his freshman year because he found they fit together in a way that would strengthen his deductive reasoning skills. Hector says he chose Valpo not only because he knew he wanted to be somewhere he could do research, but also because of the great amount of financial aid Valpo offered him.

When not in class or pursuing research, Hector serves as an economics peer tutor and is a sprinter on Valpo’s track and field team. After obtaining his degree at Valpo, he plans to eventually return to Puerto Rico to play a significant role in alleviating the major debt crisis there.

“Valpo has presented me with a lot of opportunities,” Hector says. “It has expanded my network, broadened my culture, and helped me develop many relevant skills. I believe I am a better person than the one who left Puerto Rico for Valpo two years ago.”