A mother of seven who is 35 years old becomes the first black woman to earn a doctorate in survey methodology.

Alena Maze, a mother of seven and 35 years of age, has established a new benchmark by becoming the first black woman to earn a doctorate in survey methodology.

Maze, a prominent figure on YouTube, triumphantly declared her revolutionary accomplishment, which signified a turning point in the realms of academia and diversity.

Her ascent to this apex commenced with an insatiable interest in health and mathematics, which propelled her to pursue a profession as a survey statistician with the objective of promoting inclusiveness in research methodologies.

Maze matriculated at the University of Maryland, College Park, for her doctoral studies, subsequent to earning a Master of Science in Mathematics from Georgetown University and a Bachelor of Science in Pure Mathematics from Bowie State University.

Maze, in contemplation of her scholarly area of expertise, articulately expounded upon her responsibilities as a Survey Statistician, dissecting the complex mathematical underpinnings of survey methodologies that are crucial for honing demographic-specific interventions such as diabetes management.

Outside of the realm of academia, Maze recounted to PopSugar a touching anecdote concerning love and determination, detailing her fortuitous union with Joe Lee, her Korean-American spouse. Following a series of separations and reunions, their vlogs documented the formation of a thriving multicultural family as their journey came to an end.

Maze demonstrates fortitude and commitment as she manages doctoral studies, motherhood, and content creation. She attributes her achievements to both diligent effort and divine intervention.

She expresses gratitude in her own words for the inspiration and direction that faith has provided, attributing this to a profound encounter with spirituality.


Maze discovers satisfaction in carrying on the benevolent traditions of her grandmother and mother, despite her initial reluctance to embrace a sizable family. She values the experiences and insights that come with being a mother.

CREDIT: Allschoolabs, ALLSCHOOL