Raymond Li
Monash University
I studied a double degree in science (pure mathematics) and computer science, and am now starting my honours in mathematics at Monash University. My interests in mathematics lie mainly with discrete maths – for my honours project, I am looking at transversals in latin squares.
Can you give me a quick rundown about the type of mathematics you are studying and its potential impacts for the broader community (think how you would explain your work and studies to others who don’t study maths)
My honours project is on latin squares, in particular transversals in latin squares. One particularly interesting application of latin squares is in cryptography and error correcting codes – which use specific sets of these latin squares called mutually orthogonal latin squares.
How did you get into mathematics/statistics/data science? Was there someone or something that inspired you to this field?
I actually started my science degree as a chemistry major while concurrently doing maths units, but I found myself enjoying higher level maths units more and more.
You received a Travel Grant to attend AMSI Summer School 2025. How important was this in terms of your ability to attend, fully participate in the program and meet others studying in similar fields? Do you think it was an advantage to attend the program in-person?
The travel grant played a major factor in my being able to travel to Sydney, and being able to live so close to everything made it easier to attend all the additional events, which was also a great boon.
What was the most valuable part of the program for you?
Definitely the opportunity to meet many like-minded peers and others studying the same fields – I have made many connections with people that I may interact with many years into the future.
In the long-term, what do you think are the benefits of having attended Summer School?
Being able to talk to so many people in the same position or slightly further along than me, which gave me a clearer idea of my path heading into the future.
Summer School included a special Careers Day program which aims to help give students an idea of the kinds of career paths available to maths graduates in industry and private sector research areas. Do you feel better equipped to explore career options in the mathematical sciences after attending AMSI Summer School?
Yes, I definitely have a much broader and better understanding of the many career opportunities after studying maths.
What advice would you give to someone who is considering applying for Summer School in 2026? Should they apply and why?
Definitely apply – it was a great experience and you get to meet many amazing people, and learn some really cool special topics in mathematics that may not otherwise be run as courses.
What are your current career ambitions in the mathematical sciences sector?
Currently not 100% set on anything, but heavily leaning on looking at pursuing further research – in discrete mathematics in particular.
How did connecting with the community at AMSI Summer School support your experience?
Connecting with everyone helped make the experience much more enjoyable – I imagine taking this online without any social interaction would be fairly mentally taxing. Being able to be a part of such a great community, however, made every day exceptionally enjoyable.
Any other feedback/comments you would like to provide on the AMSI Travel Grant or AMSI Summer School 2025?
Had a blast!