Shir Levav Porat
Monash University
I am just about to start my Honours year at Monash University, focusing on computational group theory. I have really enjoyed learning about a wide range of topics throughout my undergraduate experience, but abstract algebra has particularly stuck with me.
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’m interested in groups – the formalisation of the study of symmetries. This year, I’ll be doing an honours project relating to computational group theory and group extensions, and I am very much looking forward to it.
How did you get into mathematics/statistics/data science? Was there someone or something that inspired you to this field?
I got lucky enough to attend the National Mathematics Summer School during my final year of high school, an experience which really opened my eyes to maths and just how much fun problem solving can be. Watching Good Will Hunting was also quite convincing…
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 was the reason I was able to fly over to Sydney and meet so many new people. I really appreciated being able to attend in person, it was definitely advantageous as I learned so much from the people I got to talk to.
What was the most valuable part of the program for you?
Obviously, the mathematics I learned was interesting and exciting, and I got to learn about topics I had never previously heard of. But on top of that, the social aspect was equally important – I met so many new people, and I’m sure we will meet again in some way or another.
In the long-term, what do you think are the benefits of having attended Summer School?
I really appreciated talking to other people and learning how they think about mathematics – it added to my own knowledge and showed me new ways to tackle different topics and challenges.
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?
This event showed us the vast range of careers available to mathematics students. I was especially moved by the speech given to us by Eddie Woo this year, about how much of a difference we can make in education.
What advice would you give to someone who is considering applying for Summer School in 2026? Should they apply and why?
The experience of being completely immersed in maths with fellow students for a month is something that I will never forget and highly encourage other aspiring mathematicians to do – you’ve got nothing to lose!
What are your current career ambitions in the mathematical sciences sector?
I’m not sure exactly what I want to do, since I am still early into my studies. However, I am certain that maths will be involved in whatever I choose to pursue.
How did connecting with the community at AMSI Summer School support your experience?
Some of my fondest memories from the summer school are from doing group assignments and working with other people to understand new topics and ideas.
Any other feedback/comments you would like to provide on the AMSI Travel Grant or AMSI Summer School 2025?
Many thank yous to everyone who made this experience possible for me and all the other students. It was truly unforgettable.