Rory Stevens
Curtin University
Rory is partway through the Bachelor of Science at Curtin university, majoring in mathematics and specialising in optimization and industrial mathematics. They are interested in pursuing post-graduate qualifications after
their bachelors. When they are not studying, they enjoy crocheting and playing bass guitar.
1. 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 mainly study optimisation, specifically operations research. Studying optimisation gives me tools to solve many industry-related problems, such a supply-chain management, network optimisation (e.g., telephone wires, bus routes, internet cables), and project management. However, I wish to look further into the intersection between mathematical optimisation and machine learningfrom an academic perspective before I graduate.
2. How did you get into mathematics/statistics/data science? Was there someone or something that inspired you to this field?
I demonstrated an aptitude in mathematics during high school. My mother is also mathematician, and she has always been a big inspiration to me. It felt like the natural choice to make when choosing what to study in university.
3. You received a Travel Grant to attend AMSI Summer School 2024. 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 was very important in terms of my ability to fully participate inthis year’s AMSI Summer School. I am very thankful for the opportunity to meetlike-minded people, who I still talk to outside of the summer school. I also believe participating in the program in person allowed me to be more engaged with the content.
4. What was the most valuable part of the program for you?
The exposure to mathematics outside of what I would come across at my home institution was the most valuable part of the program for me. The student talksand lunchtime lectures were great opportunities for this. Furthermore, it was great to take a course that homed in on a specialization that is not focused on in the units from my home institution.
5. In the long-term, what do you think are the benefits of having attended Summer School?
I believe I will benefit greatly from the connections I made during the summer school. The events such as the lunchtime lectures and Careers Day also gave memory direction and reassurance in terms of my career goals and prospects.
6. Summer School included a special Careers Day program which aims to help give students an idea of the kinds of career paths available to math 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 Careers Day program provided me with more information with regards to mathematical career paths. This has helped me to feel more confident in pursuing a career in mathematics. I feel better equipped to explore a career in mathematics after I graduate.
7. What advice would you give to someone who is considering applying for Summer School in 2025? Should they apply and why?
I recommend applying for the Summer School. It is an invaluable opportunity to have access to connections and resources you may not be able to access from your home institution.
8. What are your current career ambitions in the mathematical sciences sector?
As I am currently still completing my bachelors, I am not entirely certain about my career ambitions. I would love to have a career in academia, as it would give me the opportunity to focus on topics that I am interested in. I would also like to contribute my own research to the field of optimization. However, I am also open to a career in industry, as it would be a great way for me to make a direct positive impact on people’s lives.
9. How did connecting with the community at AMSI Summer School support your experience?
Connecting with the community at AMSI Summer School motivated me to engage with the program fully. I also have learnt a lot through connecting with like minded people.
10.Any other feedback/comments you would like to provide on the AMSI Travel Grant or AMSI Summer School 2024?
I greatly appreciate the AMSI Summer School for the opportunities it provides to connect with other mathematical sciences students and broaden the known options available for mathematical careers. The AMSI Travel Grant enabled me to engaged in the program fully.