College Horizons: A Math Dream by Elvis

College Horizons: A Math Dream by Elvis - November 2023 Scholarship Essay

Teaching and promoting mathematics among the next generation of students is the goal most mathematicians are working towards. Because mathematics is my passion, I am devoted to this cause with all my heart. In the past, I have worked one-on-one with talented kids who needed guidance, and now that I am a college student, I would like to keep working toward my dream of helping others who are interested in developing their math skills. During my college years, I am committed to exploring new horizons with people who share my passion for mathematics.
I have always liked to help others. However, I did not have the opportunity to make a real contribution to my community until the pandemic was over. I was in my junior year of high school and decided I should do something for people like me who were passionate about mathematics. Thus, I started to have meetings with freshmen and sophomores who shared my interests. During our sessions, we would examine difficult topics from previous Mathematical Olympiads and work together to discover answers. My colleagues were eager to learn and would frequently propose intriguing solutions that I had never considered. I remember a session where they solved a problem using the Arithmetic Mean-Geometric Mean Inequality. I was very proud of them for their determination and teamwork.
It was amazing to witness their enthusiasm for mathematics and determination to develop their problem-solving abilities. I believe we developed a close-knit community where we could support and inspire one another in our academic endeavors. I think it was a wonderful opportunity to learn from each other, explore mathematical ideas, and somehow overcome the sequelae of the pandemic. I kept working with gifted children until I left my original country.
When I got to the United States, I was certain I wanted to help those who struggle with math and talented students who need someone to mentor them. Fortunately, I found that opportunity at Miami Dade College (MDC). The MDC community provided me with an opportunity to work as a math tutor, where I've assisted numerous students.
During my undergraduate years, I aim to promote mathematics at Miami Dade College and build bonds between the institution and high schools. That is why I am a member of the Wolfson Campus Discovering Math Club and the Padron Campus Math Club. I'm also excited about joining the mathematics honor society Mu Alpha Cita next semester. Besides, I'm trying to start a math group on West Campus. It would benefit our university because it would offer an opportunity for students to participate in math-related activities and competitions. Furthermore, the math club would provide a support system for children who require further aid or guidance with their math studies. By establishing the West Campus math club, I hope to contribute to the building of a welcoming and inclusive environment in which students may follow their mathematical interests while also thriving academically.
My future aspirations include mentoring and helping people. My dream is to become a university professor. My intention is to make my classes as exciting as possible while still fostering personal growth and awareness. To influence how my students approach life, I aim to develop my own teaching style. Therefore, if I can motivate my pupils to pursue their interests and forge their own paths, I would consider myself successful.
In addition, I want to work with children who are interested in mathematics. I'd like to guide them to the best of their abilities. Most importantly, I would like to change the way students perceive this science. I'd like for future generations to see mathematics as an opportunity to be creative and have fun. More than that, I want them to regard mathematics as more than just a fun activity, but as a way to get to know themselves better. I'd like to be a part of this fantastic dream that plenty of mathematicians are working toward.
To fulfill my future aspirations, I am committed to enhancing my teaching skills during college. Therefore, I am interested in gaining experience from professors who have dedicated their lives to promoting Mathematics in the community. I think it is a wonderful opportunity to network with them and learn from their insights regarding education. I also have high hopes of finding someone who is willing to mentor and guide me through the education process.
My journey into mathematics is closely related to my profound wish to go and study at a college. It is more than just a search for knowledge or professional development, rather, it signifies a deep desire to learn and improve as a teacher while achieving my dream of promoting this science. The networking opportunities and the academic resources that higher education offers are crucial to my ambition of making a lasting impact on education. College is the place where I intend to walk a path meant to reshape the perception of mathematics.