Christian Sarmiento’s Marist journey has been unconventional, to say the least.
He began his college journey by attempting to go to culinary school, but it didn’t take too many hours working in a kitchen before realizing that culinary school wasn't for him.
“While I loved the creativity of cooking, I found that the work itself didn’t captivate me as I’d hoped,” said Sarmiento '25.
He opted to go to community college instead, and that’s when he realized that technology held his interest ever since seventh grade when he built his own computer from scratch.
Culinary Arts to Computer Science
After figuring out he had a passion for computer science, Christian honed in on data science because of his fascination with artificial intelligence.
“I realized the power of combining math and computer science to create innovative solutions captivated me and motivated me to learn as much as I could about it in every way possible,” he said.
His community college only offered a two-year program and didn’t have a data science major. That’s when Christian decided to transfer to Marist as a sophomore and declared data science as his major.
Cooking and coding DO have similarities
“Although my start in culinary school often raises eyebrows, I’ve noticed similarities between perfecting a recipe and refining an algorithm,” he said. “Marist has given me the opportunity to explore so much and get involved in ways I never expected, and this place has truly become a home away from home.”
A game changer: Now a senior, he’s majoring in data science and analytics, with minors in computer science and mathematics. The personal relationships and learning experiences at Marist are a game changer, according to Christian.
That personal touch: “Here, I’ve found a supportive community that has encouraged me to grow in many different directions. Professors know you by name and genuinely care about your progress, while the campus itself creates a sense of calm and focus. You can’t help but feel motivated to dig into your studies when you’re surrounded by such beauty.”
LISTEN: Christian explains how he found the opportunity to follow his passion for playing drums in the Marist band while pursuing his studies.
"One of my friends in my computer science class is part of Marist Singers and mentioned a professor looking for anyone interested in playing drums ... fast forward and I'm part of the band now."
The Big Picture: Finding creativity and confidence
The interdisciplinary nature of Marist’s academics has enabled him to pursue more than a narrow focus on data science. That opened his eyes to unique ways data science could blend creativity with analysis while also bolstering his confidence in mastering the use of mathematics.
“Marist has helped me gain confidence in areas I once struggled with,” Christian said. “While math wasn’t always my strength, the professors here have a unique skill for breaking down complex topics, which made a huge difference. Now, I love how math combines with computer science in data science, allowing me to explore both logic and technical details.”
Life Outside the Classroom – Music and IBM
Christian said he also appreciates how Marist has encouraged him to get involved in other interests outside his academics that balance his tech-focused activities.
Clearing his mind: “I’m a drummer in the Marist band, which has become a respite from coding and algorithms,” he said. “Balancing complex projects with the rhythm and energy of drumming offers a unique outlet for creativity and stress relief. When I’m in the band, my focus shifts from screens and syntax to beats and melodies, giving me a much-needed mental break.”
A campus leader: The aspiring data scientist is also President of the Marist Analytics Community and a member of the Marist+AI initiative where he’s working alongside administrators, faculty, and other campus leaders to help make decisions on how the university will utilize AI throughout its operations.
Access to Fortune 100 tech: However, Christian said one of the highlights of his Marist experience has been the opportunity to work at the Fortune 100 global technology company, IBM.
“I’m honored to be selected to work on the Marist IBM Joint Study, where I engage with AI explainability projects, connecting technical skills with practical applications that can help people directly. I’d highly recommend the Joint Study to anyone looking to get real-world experience and feedback from industry experts.”
Freedom to Explore
In the end, Christian said he’s most grateful for the many choices and opportunities Marist has allowed him to pursue given the university’s deep belief in the power of “and” not “or.”
“Marist allows me the freedom to explore a range of interests without being pigeonholed, and that’s been a big part of my personal and academic growth here. It’s not just about getting a degree—it’s about embracing everything Marist has to offer, and I feel so grateful to be part of this community.”
Marist allows me the freedom to explore a range of interests without being pigeonholed, and that’s been a big part of my personal and academic growth here.
Inspired to do More
In our "Inspired to do More" series students, faculty, staff, and alumni share their unique Marist journeys. In Marist's "and, not or" spirit, these members of our community have embraced diverse opportunities, excelling in academics, activities, leadership, and service. Each story highlights how Marist's values inspire them to pursue excellence, connect with others, and make a meaningful impact.
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