Math Needs More Attention! by Tori

Math Needs More Attention! by Tori - November 2021 Scholarship Essay

I went through every type of math program there was in middle school and high school. Every time I felt like I had somewhat mastered one method of teaching, the next year, there was a brand-new program. I had this disdain for mathematics. Not because it was difficult, but because the curriculum made it completely unobtainable for the average person. It was very frustrating to watch those that were "natural" mathematicians breeze through the courses while my peers and I struggled greatly.

It wasn't until I was in my later years, when an elementary school math teacher re-taught me some of the basic, that everything clicked. All of a sudden, it wasn't so intimidating. Math wasn’t so out of reach. That is why I strongly believe math should be accessible for everyone - no matter the age, grade, or past experience. We should all be able to get a fresh start on math. If there a mom struggling to help her child with their homework, there should be resources for her. If there is a man who cannot hold down stable employment, because he cannot do basic math – there should be a program he can go through. There are so many obstacle in this world, let’s work together to remove barriers and give access to people struggling with mathematics.