Jordan Stirzaker
Monash University
I am studying all kinds of mathematics for my Bachelor of Science at Monash University. I have always loved maths and am enjoying my studies. I’ve recently developed a passion for probability in particular, and I am hoping to pursue further studies in this area.
1. Give me a quick overview of the type of mathematics you are studying, and/or the aims of your research and its potential applications/outcomes (how you would explain your work and studies to friends who don’t study maths?)
I’m in my third and final year of my bachelor’s degree looking to major in both pure maths and math stats. I’ve taken lots of units in topics across maths from more topics like analysis and abstract algebra to more applied topics like probability and optimisation.
2. How did you get into the mathematical sciences? Was there someone or something that inspired you to this field?
I’ve always enjoyed maths from a young age, I remember liking logic puzzles and simple problems when I was young. I like maths due to its objective nature. Something is always correct if it logically follows from what came before and it isn’t up for debate.
3. Winter School is designed to give students a deeper understanding of their area of research and expose them to others working in different fields/industries. Tell me about your Winter School experience. What was the most valuable part of the program for you?
The Winter School was an amazing opportunity to learn from many different people (both lecturers and students) who are further along in their education and employment than me. Hearing about the different areas people were researching and the experiences of others in industry (as well as how everyone got to where they are now) was invaluable.
4. What was your main take away/s from AMSI Winter School? Something you learnt? A connection you made? Do you have new ideas for your work/research or see it in a new light?
I would say my main take away is how it opened my eyes to the potential projects I would be interested in for honours/postgraduate study as well as a wide number of techniques and models that I am now familiar with for future problems I encounter.
5. You received a grant to attend AMSI Winter School. How important was this in terms of your ability to attend, fully participate in the program and meet others studying in similar fields?
The grant I received was extremely helpful to be able to organise flights and accommodation without needing to worry about financial pressure. Participating in person and being able to interact with the other students during breaks and work together during the tutorials was amazing.
6. What advice would you give to someone who is considering applying for Winter School? How would you describe the conference to them?
The conference is packed with so many interesting topics and like-minded people – if you find the topic for the Winter School cool, I would definitely recommend applying.
7. Where do you want the mathematical sciences to take you? Where do you see yourself in five, ten years time?
Currently my plan is to do honours next year and then likely masters/PhD. I’d love to do some research related to probability and stochastic processes. After that I’ll consider continuing in research or going into industry.
8. Any other feedback/comments you would like to provide on the travel grant or AMSI Winter School?
I’m thankful to have received the travel grant and to have attended the AMSI Winter School. It was a wonderful experience!