HMC Invites Students to Explore World of Mathematics

Undecided students and mathematics majors can explore careers in mathematics and graduate study opportunities at the AfterMath Conference on Saturday, Feb. 9 at Harvey Mudd College.

More than 90 people have registered for the free event, which is expected to draw more than a hundred students from throughout Southern California.

The conference will feature expert lectures, hands-on workshops and panels with graduate students and those in industry.

“Our dream is to inspire a new generation of mathematicians, who will bring brilliance and diverse perspectives to solve outstanding mathematical problems, benefitting the world around us and leading us into a better future,” said Assistant Professor of Mathematics Dagan Karp, co-founder of the Pacific Alliance for Mathematical Baccalaureates, which organized the event. Modeled after the National Alliance for Doctoral Studies in Mathematical Sciences, PAMB works to broaden participation in mathematics in Southern California and Hawaii.

AfterMath keynote speaker Philip Kutzko, professor of mathematics at the University of Iowa, co-founded and directs the National Alliance, which aims to increase doctoral degrees awarded to students from underrepresented groups.

“As a top producer of students who go on to pursue doctorates in the mathematical sciences, HMC is primed and ready to impact the pipeline of underrepresented scholars in mathematics,” said AfterMath co-organizer Talithia Williams, assistant professor of mathematics. “By hosting this conference, we’re bringing together local and national graduate programs, industry professionals, faculty and students, and showcasing the many possibilities that exist with a mathematics degree.”

Panelists include representatives from Aerospace Corporation, Math for America, Mercer, University of California at Irvine, UCLA and HMC. The event will also include a graduate school fair.

AfterMath is supported by the National Science Foundation, the National Alliance and the HMC Department of Mathematics. The event is free, but registration is required.