Reflection About Math

What topic in science or math do you currently find most interesting and why? When and how did you become aware of it? How have you explored it?

When a person asks about my interests, the reaction is always interesting. Most of the time they are both confused and surprised by the answer. The answer that evokes such a reaction? Math. Which is why, when I was told I could choose any topic for an essay, I knew I would write a math paper. A friend of mine suggested fractals, and, after a bit of digging around, I realized fractals were extremely compelling. I focused on the practical aspect of fractals because of my lack of knowledge-- how they could be incorporated into sustainable design at different levels. And, even after a semester of research,

They draw and create lifelike and abstract objects and people that never cease to amaze me. When I pick up a pencil to draw, I start hopeful, trying to create smooth lines. Then it goes downhill and I have to take a break to get rid of my frustration. My experiences with drawing are why I have always been hesitant about art and usually turn to more familiar ground with my math homework, something my friends tease me at times for finding relaxing and interesting. I often do my math homework last, knowing it is a satisfying way to end my hours of homework. However, last summer I borrowed a ukulele from my friend and soon became engrossed in learning it to the point I bought my own. So, since that summer, I turn to my ukulele during my free time. I bring it to school, to friends’ houses, and play while they draw or sing. I still try to draw at times, but it does not frustrate me, it reminds me that while I am not necessarily talented in this area, I have other ways of enjoying my time, whether it be math or playing the ukulele, the latter of these has allowed me to explore the creative aspect for myself I often believed was not there, or was

I was thrust into a new world with very little English. I soon learned the language to an extent where I now consider it my primary tongue. But, even with my rapid learning, I still had a learning gap which was prevalent in math. Many I know think I was always adept at math, that it was just something I was naturally good at, but at this time they would not say so. I struggled with the most basic concepts of math, the four basic operations, for years while my brother was accepted into an advanced math course, and I admired him for that, aspired to do the same. And so I did with motivation and help from both of my parents. I was able to graduate from the below-grade level and on-grade level classes and moved on to the advanced courses available at my school. When I moved to Canada, where they did not have advanced math or science courses, my learning was challenged again. But I refused to slow down my learning, so I learned on my own and then with a