I am an international student who came to Waterloo from China to study computer science. I wanted to attend university overseas to broaden my horizons, so I researched the best computer science undergraduate programs in the world and found the University of Waterloo. I was attracted to the excellent math and computer science education and co-op opportunities that Waterloo provided. It was my dream school!
So far, my experience at Waterloo has surpassed expectations. I am currently doing my 6th co-op term as a research and development engineering intern with Uber ATG and plan to become a software engineer after graduating in April 2021. I‘ve been involved in all kinds of extracurricular activities. I was the event co-ordinator for the UW Women in STEM club, the organizer of UW Engineering Hackathon 2018, a student representative in UW Mathematics Society, and an alto in the University Choir.
But a major part of what makes Waterloo special is its promotion of diversity—the theme of this issue of e-Ties.
When I was growing up, I constantly heard people say, ‘girls are not good at math,’ ‘women cannot be great engineers.” As a woman who aspires to be both a great math student and a great engineer, I do not believe these things. Nevertheless, I want to be in an environment where I get encouragement, support and female role models.
The University of Waterloo’s Faculty of Math takes an active role in women’s empowerment. Recently, the Faculty hosted its first International Women in Math Day celebration virtually, which featured discussions with some of the Faculty’s leading female researchers and alumni. The celebration even got a special acknowledgement from the Prime Minister!
Why do we need events like this? This story about Sophie Janszen-Spitman, a student in the Faculty of Mathematics, and this #iamgoodatmath video testifies to the importance of fostering an inclusive environment for all women studying/working in Math.
An important part of creating this inclusive and supportive culture is shining a light on the female role models in our community. To that end, this issue features the inspiring stories of three women who have used math to make an impact in the world —a superstar researcher, a Wall Street star, and the first ever BMath recipient at the University of Waterloo.
But the success of these gender equity initiatives would not be possible without donors like Paul and Cathy Cotton, who have given generously to create scholarships for women in math. They describe their generous support of these initiatives as “a family affair.”
The Faculty also aims to promote racial diversity, and, in light of recent events, we have been discussing ways we can be more proactive in combatting racism both within the university community and beyond. In this issue, we have asked two alumni to share their reflections on anti-racism and highlight the some of actions that we in the Faculty of Math community can take to create a less discriminatory world.
Finally, this issue of e-Ties celebrates 2020’s graduating class.
On account of COVID-19, this year’s class will not have the opportunity for an in-person convocation, but on June 5th, many graduating students participated in the Math Alumni Virtual Celebration for the Class of 2020. The event brought together students, parents, faculty, and alumni, including Waterloo’s first graduate, Ron Mullin, for a full day of discussions, networking and games. A recurring theme of the day’s discussions was how to thrive during a recession. Alumni shared their own stories of hardship during economic downturns and assured graduates that, with a little resilience, they would find success.
I agree. In the Chinese language, the word “crisis” is composed of two characters, one meaning “danger” and the other, “opportunity.” Despite the difficulties the class of 2020 will face, they will also have chances to find their inner courage and realize their hidden potential. Eventually, all their hard work will pay off.
I hope you enjoy this issue of Math e-Ties!
Keer Liu
2019 Math Co-op Student of the Year
P.S. Find out how you can support current UWaterloo students through the Math alumni co-op challenge in honour of the 2020 graduating class, and have access to some of the brightest and most talented students and future employees. There is unprecedented federal funding, which means that employers could get up to 75% of a student wage subsidized. Non-profits may be eligible for complete funding.
