Nicole '25 Competes in Selective Math Prize for Girls

Nicole qualified out of the thousands of female students who have both taken and excelled in the American Mathematics Competition exam. She is KUA’s first mathematician to receive the invitation. 

“It’s such an honor,” Nicole said, explaining that MP4G is different from other math competitions she’s attended. “Each competition has its own set of rules,” she said. “Some are multiple choice, some you have to write out all the steps.”

During the 2.5- hour exam, Nicole and other participants completed 20 challenging problems that test the mathematical creativity and insights of the high-school participants. 

Prior to the competition, the university hosted various social events including a game night, an information session, and tour of campus. According to MIT, “MP4G is the largest contest of its kind in North America and has also served as an unofficial pipeline to MIT.”

Understanding what kind of test she’ll be working on is what helps Nicole succeed. She detailed how math is a constant tool, one that helps her organize her thoughts in daily practice and assess situations logically. “Math is everywhere,” she said.

Jon Hastings ’01, KUA mathematics department chair, agrees. “It's an essential skill in an increasingly complex world and helps us make rational, logical choices in our day to day lives,” he says. “Programs like the Math Prize for Girls increase the accessibility of math to young people and encourage them to take on the mathematical and scientific challenges of the future.” 

Although Nicole didn’t place this year, there is still an aspect of awe and achievement at even qualifying to enter and be recognized for her excellence in mathematics. 

Hastings for one, is tremendously proud. “This kind of recognition is important because it shows an extra level of commitment and motivation on the part of the student,” he said, adding that Nicole is very capable of going after her goals. ”Nicole has a vision for what she would like to achieve academically, namely outstanding achievement in mathematics…she has the motivation and studious habits necessary to dedicate time and effort to improving her math skills.”

Events such as MP4G also offer girls opportunities for networking and discovering similar interests. According to the organization, past participants have gone on to study engineering, medical sciences, and computer science, to later work in areas such as aviation, robotics, and artificial intelligence. 

As a junior, Nicole is unsure of her academic and professional direction, but she knows math will factor into her plans. Nicole acknowledges that it’s not always fun, but she enjoys the challenge. She offered advice for those who may struggle with the subject. “Every effort counts,” she encourages. “Your brain is memorizing information even if you don’t think it is. If you put in the effort, you will get something.”