I talked to Minseo Kang, (senior, mathematics) who answered questions about her experiences as a woman in mathematics, including why she chose this path, the challenges that she’s faced, and future goals she has for after graduation.
What made you decide to go into mathematics?
I had always felt a calling towards it. I enjoyed math in high school, so I thought it would be a good background for the kind of thinking and logic needed for my future as a physician.
What are some of the mathematics courses you’ve taken so far, and which has been your favorite?
I have taken Calculus I to III, Intro to Linear Algebra, Linear Algebra, Foundations of Advanced Math, Real Analysis I&II, Differential Equations, and Abstract Algebra. I enjoyed Calculus I to III and Differential Equations the most, as they have been computational classes while the others have been proofs. Calculus is also the foundation of mathematics and other fields, so I believe that it could also help in medical research in my future.
Have you faced challenges so far as a woman in STEM? On the flip side, have you been able to experience triumphs or successes?
I have not experienced any challenges so far, as my department and this school have been nothing but supportive to my learning. In terms of successes, the interviewer and most of the people I talked to while applying for medical school have been intrigued about my choice of major. I was able to talk about how logic and critical thinking gained from mathematics helped me study more efficiently in my pre-medicine courses. Additionally, on the MCAT, I was able to use logic and critical thinking to effectively solve the CARS section.
What are some ways in which you have been able to experience or create community in your field?
There is a colloquium every Friday at 12:30 that I attended almost every semester throughout college. At the colloquium, speakers would come and talk to us about their field in math/physics and the possible job opportunities that came along with it. My friends in the math department and I would sit together at eigen* (Andrews University Mathematicians and Physicists Club) and enjoy listening to the speaker while eating the food provided. The sense of community at eigen* was a blessing for me.
Do you have any role models that you look up to?
I look up to my mother because she worked so hard to be where she is today. As an international student that came to Michigan State to study for her PhD, she successfully became a professor while also being the best mother to me. Currently, she is a professor in mathematics at Andrews University. Just like her, I hope to become a physician that people look up to and successfully start a family.
What are your career plans for after graduation?
After graduation, I plan to attend Loma Linda University School of Medicine and study to become a Physician. Right now, I am looking into orthopedic surgery, but I know that is subject to change as I get more clinical experience.
The Student Movement is the official student newspaper of Andrews University. Opinions expressed in the Student Movement are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the editors, Andrews University or the Seventh-day Adventist church.