MathPath 2024, Week three in KC

As MathPath continues, it’s inspiring to witness the bonds forming among our students. This week was a perfect blend of intense learning and engaging activities.

Our breakout sessions continued to offer a variety of enriching options this week. MathPath first-timer Dr. Dylon Chow from the University of Washington taught Projective Geometry, a type of geometry discovered through the development of perspective drawing in art. Dr. David McCune, a local professor at William Jewell College, taught Apportionment and Voting. In this breakout, students analyzed real election data and considered alternative results under different voting systems such as plurality, instant-runoff voting, and the Borda Count.

Dr. McCune and students analyze a U.S. House race in Alaska

Maths and Crafts

The plenaries were equally thought-provoking. Senior staff assistant and PhD student at UIUC Maddy Ritter gave an insightful talk on "Free groups and the Hanna Neumann Conjecture." She introduced MathPathers to free groups and geometric group theory along with a short history lesson on Hanna Neumann, a 20th-century pioneer in this area of mathematics. On Friday, Dr. Emily Olson of Millikin University gave a talk called "Quaternions." Dr. Olson shared with students the story of Sir William Rowan Hamilton's breakthrough during a walk in Dublin, where he conceived the rules of quaternions and carved them into the stone of a bridge over the Royal Canal.

Hamilton's discovery

Evenings at MathPath were packed with fun and relaxation. Some students watched "Hidden Figures," an inspiring true story of three African American women mathematicians who served in crucial positions at NASA during the early years of the U.S. space program. Bruce, head of Rockhurst Dining Services, showcased his innovative hydroponic and aeroponic plants, giving students a fascinating glimpse into the future of sustainable agriculture. Sports enthusiasts enjoyed lively games of basketball, soccer, and capture the flag, while others took leisurely walks to the local ice cream parlor, enjoying the beautiful weather here in Kansas City.

Hydroponic and aeroponic plants in Rockhurst's dining hall

Basketball behind XL

This week at MathPath was a perfect blend of rigorous academics and enjoyable activities. The experiences and friendships formed here have made a lasting impact, fueling a greater passion for mathematics among all MathPathers. As we look ahead, we're excited for more learning, growth, and fun in our final week.

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