Week One: A Summer of Curiosity Begins

There is really something special about Arrival Day!

Suitcases roll across campus, families share one last hug, and MathPathers meet for the first time. Before long, quick hellos become lengthy conversations and over the next four weeks those conversations grow into friendships.

Counselors Ingrid, Cam, and Rebecca welcoming campers with Dr. Clark

Click here to see our Arrival Day reel!


A Warm Welcome


Orientation officially kicked off the summer as campers and families met MathPath faculty and staff.


Executive Director Lara Pudwell


After welcomes from Executive Director Lara Pudwell and Camp Director April Verser, families learned about the academic program, met counselors, and had a chance to ask questions before saying goodbye.


Camp Director April Verser and Counselors


From day one, our goal is to create a place where students feel challenged, supported, and excited to learn more about math.


The Learning Begins


Campers wasted no time tackling their first Problem of the Day (PoD).

Rather than memorizing formulas, students were encouraged to explore patterns and ideas then later explain their reasoning. One duo even recreated the day’s problem using lunchtime leftovers while carefully avoiding sharing solutions.


Ingrid’s Group hard at work to solve the PoD


Beyond the Classroom

Learning doesn’t stop when class ends.

Meals, sports, crafts, and free time quickly turn classmates into friends. These shared moments build the confidence to ask questions and embrace new challenges.

An additional challenge included completing a scavenger hunt!


Scavenger Hunt fun with Thanasis’ Group: The Avengers!


Finding Their Place


Students arrive from different states and backgrounds, each bringing their own strengths.


By the end of the first week, everyone has taken a step forward, from simply introducing themselves to presenting a solution in a breakout.


More Orientation Day bonding


Looking Ahead

Week One is complete but the adventure is just beginning.


This MathPath Weekend (Sunday/Monday), campers will head out in small groups to enjoy activities around Portland and take part in an all-camp field trip.

We’ll be sharing highlights here, Instagram, and flickr, so be sure to follow along.

Next Up: Our first weekend together, including our camp-wide adventure! 




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