MathPath

As MathPath draws to a close, we reflect on an unforgettable journey of intellectual growth, camaraderie, and cherished memories. Throughout this summer, we witnessed the immense potential of each student, their passion for learning, and their unwavering support for one another. From inspiring breakout sessions to enlightening plenaries, every moment has been filled with enthusiasm and a thirst for knowledge. We will miss the MathPath community, but as Prof D said during our closing ceremony, “in a sense MathPath 2023 will never end because it now lives inside of each one of us.” Our last week here in Portland was undeniably fantastic. The students enthusiastically participated in their final breakouts, eager to absorb every remaining bit of knowledge. “Metric Spaces” taught by counselor E was a hit, and students spent the final days ranking their favorite metrics from the course. Dr Kent worked with students to understand the intriguing world of “Hyperbolic Geometry.” Dr Z talked comp...

As we approach the final week of MathPath, it is heartwarming to witness the strong connections that have developed among our students. They have not only developed a fondness for one another but also formed a genuine support system both inside and outside the classroom. The growth of these relationships has undoubtedly enhanced the MathPath experience, and we look forward to the remaining days filled with continued fun and camaraderie. MathPathers at breakfast During the breakout sessions last week, our students were exposed to a diverse array of mathematical topics. Dr. H provided instruction on Mathematica, with no prior programming experience required. Every day, students accessed the Wolfram Cloud, utilizing this powerful software to solve equations and generate graphics of functions. Through the lens of Number Theory, MathPathers explored various classic ciphers in an always popular breakout, "Cryptology." Under the guidance of Prof R, students gained a solid foundation...

We have reached the midway point of MathPath 2022, and are reflecting on the remarkable growth and development our students have exhibited thus far. The initial nerves and uncertainties have given way to a sense of comfort and familiarity, allowing our students to truly make the most of their MathPath experience. However, now that we’re comfortable, we expect time to begin to move faster. This emphasizes the importance of making every moment count and fully immersing ourselves in the remaining time we have together. MathPathers working together during the annual Puzzle Hunt We hosted many fantastic visiting speakers this past week. Satyan Devadoss of the University of San Diego spent Wednesday and Thursday with us. He spoke with vigor about a geometric puzzle developed by Albrecht Dürer involving “unfolding” faces of polyhedra. Dr. Devadoss shared a story about how he built a two-ton interactive sculpture of this unfolding which was showcased at the Burning Man festival. He encouraged ...

On June 25, we initiated MathPath 2023 at the University of Portland. Families bid farewell to their students as they settled into dormitories for the duration of the month, bringing along their books, games, and, above all, an eagerness to explore the realm of mathematics. On Monday, the first full day of the program, our new students were introduced to MathPath during the opening ceremony, and many families followed along at home by way of livestream. Our Executive Director Lara Pudwell introduced MathPath and its mission while Camp Director April Verser discussed the specifics of daily life at MathPath. Counselors and other staff were introduced before Academic Director Matt Delong discussed the academic side of the program, introducing faculty and giving the students the chance to vote for their week one breakout courses. Our Student Life Director Julie Vega ran a Diversity, Equity and Inclusion activity called “President of the Venn,” where students got to know each other by compa...