Unlocking the Hidden Impact of Mathematics on My Life Journey
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The Early Struggles with Mathematics
Mathematics can often feel like a daunting challenge, especially when it seems to be a constant source of anxiety. As a child, I can honestly say that I didn’t just dislike math—I was terrified of it. My fear stemmed from a belief that I simply wasn't capable, and the unyielding nature of math answers only fueled my anxiety. The thought of being judged for incorrect answers left me hesitant to engage with the subject altogether.
"I was left behind in the mathematics race, surrounded by peers who excelled while I struggled."
Confidence is crucial for young learners in math; without those pivotal AHA moments, it’s easy to fall behind. Unfortunately, this is exactly what happened to me.
A Turning Point
After elementary school, my confidence in math had plummeted, and during my first year of high school, it wasn’t a priority. With distractions like new friends, parties, and my passion for music, math took a backseat.
Then came a pivotal summer day in 2005, as I wrestled with a calculus assignment beneath an apple tree in my parents' garden. My father, noticing my frustration, offered to help. As he explained the concept of slicing a sphere into thin pieces to calculate its volume, I experienced my first real understanding of math. It was a revelation that changed everything.
From that day forward, I vowed to master mathematics, even though I had to start from the very basics. I dedicated myself to catching up on all the fundamentals I had missed, which took a year of hard work. Eventually, I not only became proficient in math but fell in love with it.
The Academic Shift
My passion for science led me to explore various fields in university, including biology, physics, and economics. Ultimately, I found myself gravitating toward mathematics, which felt like my true calling. I began my studies in mathematical economy but soon focused exclusively on math courses.
As I progressed to my master's program, I divided my time among three pursuits: mathematics, programming, and teaching high school math. My choice to learn programming, particularly in Python, opened new avenues for me, especially in data science and machine learning—fields deeply rooted in mathematics.
Teaching was another transformative experience that honed my skills in communication and understanding, enriching my approach to both learning and instructing.
Career Development
After defending my thesis on hyper sphere packing, I entered the job market and quickly landed a position as a data scientist with a prominent consultancy. My diverse skills came into play as I tackled challenges involving machine learning algorithms, programming, and client communication.
The opportunity to transition into a leadership role came soon after, allowing me to apply my problem-solving techniques from mathematics to project management. Over the years, I moved from programming to managing projects, eventually leading analytics and bid management at a larger facility management firm.
Final Reflections
The essence of my journey is this: regardless of your passion, it's vital to find a balance between doing what you love and strategically targeting challenges that align with your skills. For me, the recurring themes have been problem-solving and creativity—elements that are integral to mathematics, programming, and leadership.
As my father wisely noted, "In the end, the main goal in life should be being happy." This mantra continues to guide me as I navigate my career and personal growth.
Chapter 2: Embracing the Power of Mathematics
In the first video, "The mathematics of love | Hannah Fry," the fascinating connection between mathematics and love is explored, shedding light on how math influences our relationships and emotions.
The second video, "Mathematics is the sense you never knew you had | Eddie Woo | TEDxSydney," delves into the often-overlooked ways mathematics shapes our understanding of the world around us, encouraging viewers to embrace its beauty and relevance in everyday life.