May 10, 2024
Falling in Love with Math
Mathematics was once my Achilles' heel, a subject that filled me with dread and frustration. Despite my best efforts, I struggled to grasp mathematical concepts throughout my time in elementary through high school. Uncertain about my academic path after high school, I enrolled in community college to start exploring my interests. After placement testing, I found myself enrolled in remedial college algebra. I was worried about my ability to get through the math courses needed to obtain my Bachelor's degree. To my surprise, remedial algebra class at the University of Wisconsin-Waukesha proved to be a turning point in my relationship with mathematics. The instructor's use of visual aids transformed my understanding of algebra, and I found that for the first time in my life, not only was I understanding math, but I was having fun doing it.
As I progressed through algebra, trigonometry, and Calculus I, I grew to love mathematics. Hours spent practicing problems and delving into proofs felt more like exciting little puzzles than tedious tasks. Encouragement from my calculus instructor who told me routinely that I "think like a mathematician" inspired me to keep exploring this newfound love for mathematics. The thrill of acquiring new mathematical knowledge filled me with a sense of purpose unlike anything I had experienced before. It was that sense of purpose which helped me to realize that I had found the thing that I wanted to pursue in life, which was Mathematics. To become a mathematician, I would need a PhD.
The University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire McNair Scholars Program
Upon my arrival at the University of Wisconsin- Eau Claire, my primary objective was to get involved in Mathematics research. This would not only help me to start building the skillset needed to do research at a graduate level, but would also provide the opportunity for me to explore my mathematical interests. In the fall of 2022, I began working on research with Dr. Silviana Amethyst on 3D-printable algebraic surfaces. Shortly thereafter, I received an email from the director of the McNair program that changed the trajectory of my academic journey. Learning about the program's mission to support first-generation students from certain socioeconomic backgrounds and underrepresented students in their pursuit of graduate education, I understood how pivotal the opportunity could be in reaching my goals.
Participating in the McNair program has been transformative. From learning about grant writing to research planning to navigating the complexities of graduate school applications, I've gained invaluable insights and skills which will set me up for success in graduate school. Mentorship from individuals who have traversed similar paths themselves and have helped many students like me along the way has made my aspirations feel within reach. As a first-generation college student, I would not have had access to this kind of mentorship and guidance otherwise.
Moving Forward
As I look ahead to my remaining time in the McNair program, I am full of excitement for the opportunities that lie ahead. Having authored a research grant proposal for the summer, I am eager to work full-time continuing my work with aBa, my McNair mentor who I have already been working with over the past year. The experience of working full -time on my research will help me navigate working on my PhD research. Additionally, I will publish our research results in ASTRA, McNair's journal, before completing my undergraduate degree. This is an incredibly affirming achievement and one that will significantly bolster my graduate school applications.
A photo of aBa and I being a little goofy while doing research. He loves to accessorize and inspired my own earmuffs purchase. I love doing research with aBa because we always have fun.
Each day, I feel more equipped to thrive in graduate school, thanks to the support and resources provided by the McNair program. With newfound confidence, I am poised to continue my journey of discovery, embracing the challenges and opportunities that await me. My journey from math aversion to research passion has been marked by growth, discovery, and new connections. Through the transformative power of curiosity and mentorship, I've found my path and look forward to embarking on the next chapter of my academic and professional pursuits.
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