CSUMB College of Science hosts annual Bruce W. Woolpert Algebra Academy
On August 7th, CSUMB’s College of Science hosted 140 eighth grade students for the annual Bruce W. Woolpert Algebra Academy.
The Bruce W. Woolpert Algebra Academy is an innovative algebra immersion program for middle school students that are motivated to learn and advance in the field of mathematics. As part of their summer program, these students spent the day at CSUMB taking part in interactive lab experiences and formal presentations.
Several College of Science faculty and lecturers played a key role in providing this experience. In the morning, lecturer Matt Jew provided a presentation on utilizing math in shark science. Dr. Peri Shereen followed up this presentation with a math instruction session.
Current Woolpert Scholar Recipients, Christina Magana-Ramirez and Adrian Rebollar-Cortes, wrapped up the morning by providing an insightful talk on why they chose to be math majors, their college experience, and advice for those that hope to pursue a degree in mathematics in the future.
In the afternoon, Dr. Gerick Bergsma and Dr. Robin Pelc provided an interactive activity on marine shells: how biology and math can be closely linked. Dr. Corin Slown dove into 3 dimensional reasoning while Dr. Daniel Fernandez applied the use of mathematics in the fog collection process. Lecturer Katherine Green utilized gaming to apply mathematics towards design, whereas CSUMB student, Elya Kandahari, provided an informative workshop on electrochemistry. Dr. Immanuel Williams completed the afternoon program by teaching the students about how statistics and data analysis can impact everything we see on a daily basis; including marketing, social media, and other forms of communication.
Through participating in this day of mathematical application, Algebra Academy students had the opportunity to explore their potential to pursue a career in mathematics.
Christy Sessions (Executive Director, Bruce W. Woolpert Algebra Academy) reflected on the successful event, with hopes for future continued collaboration:
It's a gift, on so many levels, to be able to partner with CSUMB. As a nonprofit that focuses on providing math enrichment for local students, we are thrilled that the university steps in with the resources to provide a valuable STEM component that complements our program. This year's event at CSUMB exposed our students to complex and exciting areas of study that opened their eyes and inspired them to learn more. The university team could not have been more organized, professional, and gracious! We look forward to continuing our lasting partnership with CSUMB for years to come!
To learn more about the Bruce W. Woolpert Algebra Academy, check out this video.