My journey

In 2014, I started my Bachelor's degree in Math + Teaching Certificate at the University of Texas at Brownsville. I took about 5 teaching courses, including going out at observing/teaching lessons at local high schools. In 2017, I wanted to go out and explore the world. Hence, I decided to go study abroad to Zurich, Switzerland. Later on I figured I was in a top notch place, ETH Zurich (it was unplanned for). I took 3 courses (Algebraic Topology, Functional Analysis, and Algebra), and THIS was the catalyst for why I started pursuing Pure Math. In 2018, due to some unfortunate circumstances, I changed my Bachelor's degree to Pure Math, and graduated.

Afterwards, I studied a 1 year Post-baccalaureate Certificate at Iowa State University in Pure Math. Here is think I really stepped up my game in math, matured into being more independent, and started my 'Graduate School journey' (this program was similar to a Master's degree). I applied to a couple Master's and PhD programs for next year. I made it to their wait list, but was not accepted to any PhD program. I was accepted, however, to my dream school: Part III at Cambridge, UK. This experience has been wonderful, very enriching, with tons of learning, more of what I expected. Right now is June 2020, and the COVID-19 situation has given an expected turn to a lot of people, including me. I just finished my Part III exams this week. However, I am expecting I can go back

"Isn't it funny how day by day nothing changes, but when you look back, everything is different" - C.S. Lewis

Last year, I applied to PhD's again, but did not make it to any programs. Again, I had about 4-5 interviews, was wait-listed, but not quite there... Yes, of course this is really disappointing, and I was super sad at some point. As you can see, my journey has not been easy (which I think is what most people encounter). If anything, I have had moments where I am very upset, super unmotivated, and just want to stop trying. However, I have been lifted up from the ground time after time after time. I have seen in my life how amazing things happen, way better than I imagined, when it's least unexpected. I have experienced how sad, dark circumstances turn into bright, joyful situations. So hold, you are going to be ok. Dream big dreams, and aim high. 

Graduate school

Personally, I acknowledge graduate school is a big challenge: prolonged immersion in solving problems, tenacity in the midst of opposition, and devotion to goals and leaders of the area. However, I know that I have the stamina, drive and qualities to excel in such an environment. When I know I am called to do something, to take courage and keep moving forward - I don't quit. 

Yes, this journey of graduate school is not easy, but it is worth it. I cannot abandon this pilgrimage of being a catalyst in society I am on. Quite frankly, I do not want to. Even if I am not able to see the fruit of my sowing during my lifetime, I will yet rejoice in the planting of the seeds I did.

I will be posting some of my "Life + Math journey" in the photo gallery.

Purpose

So this is the purpose of this website: to be your fan! 

What's next?

I don't know, hehehe. Well, I will be working for 1 year and doing some research. Then, I will apply for a PhD position.