Henry Freegard
The University of Western Australia
I’m a Bachelor of Philosophy student at UWA presently undertaking my honours year. I have completed various research pursuits as part of my undergraduate courses ranging from applied calculus problems to topics in pure mathematics such as combinatorial designs. I’m currently studying Pure Mathematics and completing a research project as part of my studies.
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)
I am currently most interested in Group Theory and related fields, which is a field of mathematics that describes the naturally occurring symmetries of our universe and gives us many tools for studying them. There are many applications of this branch of mathematics, from cryptography to particle physics.
How did you get into mathematics/statistics/data science? Was there someone or something that inspired you to this field?
I’ve always been very interested in solving various types of puzzles and logic problems. I see mathematics as one of the greatest most intricate puzzles that humanity has ever endeavoured to investigate, so I have always loved the rigour and logic that the discipline espouses.
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 AMSI Travel Grant allowed me to attend lectures and workshops in person, which helped me understand and engage with the mathematical content to a much greater extent than had I pursued the unit online. It was also fantastic to have the opportunity to form valuable connections with other like-minded students and learn from their research endeavours.
What was the most valuable part of the program for you?
The opportunity to study cutting-edge mathematical theory and engage with a genre of mathematics that I wouldn’t otherwise be exposed to. It also formed excellent foundation for the mathematics I’d like to employ for further research.
In the long-term, what do you think are the benefits of having attended Summer School?
The Summer School engages you in specialist courses that enhance your skills as a mathematician and broaden your mathematical scope. It also can be helpful to secure connections in an educational institution outside of your own for further research opportunities.
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?
The AMSI Summer School’s Careers Day was a great success and featured a detailed showcase of potential careers in mathematics. The presenters were very friendly, knowledgeable, and approachable and gave great insight in what a career in Mathematics could resemble. It helped me identify a few areas that I’d be interested in taking my mathematical skills after university.
What advice would you give to someone who is considering applying for Summer School in 2026? Should they apply and why?
I would highly recommend applying for the Summer School if you’re interested in an immersive, thoroughly rewarding learning experience. The experience would be particularly enjoyable if you’re able to work well with other like-minded students.
What are your current career ambitions in the mathematical sciences sector?
My aspiration is to complete further research, possibly abroad, in the mathematical sciences and make my contribution to the growing reservoir of mathematical wisdom.
How did connecting with the community at AMSI Summer School support your experience?
I made some great friends who I will certainly stay in contact with as a result of the AMSI Summer School. It was enjoyable to discuss with other students their mathematical backgrounds and interests.
Any other feedback/comments you would like to provide on the AMSI Travel Grant or AMSI Summer School 2025?
Overall, the program was extremely well organised and co-ordinated, and I consider it a highlight of my academic career thus far. I would highly recommend the program to future students.