Competitive Maths
WHY
I have a burning passion for mathematics, especially competitive mathematics. To me, it is the most universal language, simultaneously theoretical, practical, and concrete. It feels like the key to understanding the world.
Chemistry, physics, engineering, and computing all rely on mathematics. You can see it in nature on Earth and in the patterns of space. Mathematics is the rawest building block of the world around us, and discovering its patterns never stops feeling exciting.
Competitive mathematics is my favorite because it turns complex problems into opportunities for creativity. It teaches drive and resilience while giving me the chance to show off both my skills and my imagination. Most problems cannot simply be taught. They demand outside-the-box thinking, inventive problem-solving, and a willingness to explore ideas that no one has tried before. For me, there is nothing more satisfying than finding a solution that is clever, elegant, and uniquely my own.
Awards & Recognitions
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My journey in competitive mathematics began in middle school, when I placed fourth nationally among middle school students. In high school, I reached the National Math Olympiad Finals all three years and consistently ranked between 15th and 8th among my peers.
These experiences taught me not only advanced problem-solving skills but also perseverance and focus. Competing at a national level showed me the value of hard work and creative thinking, and it continues to inspire me to push my mathematical abilities further.
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My high school holds annual team competitions in mathematics. Over the years, teams I have been part of, with different members each year, have won every competition. This streak has been both exciting and motivating, and it has given me the chance to tackle challenging problems alongside peers who share my passion for mathematics.
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After ranking 11th in the National IMO Finals, I was offered a spot in the International IMO Elite Training Program, a five-week intensive summer course for the most promising students in mathematics. I was the only participant in the program who was not going abroad to compete in the international IMO.
Each week, a different professor introduced new material to prepare us for future competitions. Attending the program meant giving up my summer job, but I knew the experience was worth it. I reached out to my municipality, and they offered a scholarship in support of my participation.
Participating in this program was one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences of my mathematical journey, pushing me to grow both academically and personally.