Jeremy Kozdon, Student
Physics, UCSC
Why I Chose Stanford
When looking at programs around the country in applied math and
computational science, I found that many of them were setup to cater to
people that had undergraduate math or applied math backgrounds, and this
didn't fit me. The broad scope of the iCME curriculum is what makes it
unique and allows anyone from a field that uses math and computation to
benefit and thrive. Also Stanford's research program is so diverse, that
since I didn't know what exactly I wanted to do, coming to Stanford
seemed like the logical choice.
My Background
I did my undergraduate education at UC Santa Cruz in physics (B.S.) and
computer science (B.A.), well technically a minor due to me forgetting to
take the comprehensive exam.
What Do You Work On
I work on numerical methods for PDE's. In particular I currently use
fundamental numerical error analysis techniques to understand
anisotropic errors made in numerical simulation of gas injection
processes for enhanced oil recovery. The hope is that in understanding
the types of errors that we develop numerical techniques to more
accurately predict oil recovery for certain types of unstable problems.
In conjunction with this I study coupling methods for enforcing
solutions in a volume conserving manner.
What's Great About Studying Here
It's California! Besides that there are a few things. First the program
is relatively small, yet not tiny. What does this mean? That you can
interact with a large portion of your colleagues on a regular basis and
know everyone, yet there is a diverse enough collection of students that
if you don't get along with someone it isn't the end of the world. Also,
the interdisciplinary nature of the program exposes you to topics that
you wouldn't have otherwise known about. The students and faculty are
generally friendly. Though you will work hard, you will probably enjoy it.
What Advice Would You Give Prospective Students
When you visit Stanford (or any other school) talk to the students. Find
out what they honestly feel about the program. Remember this is your
graduate education. If you dislike the people, the program, the location
you won't finish (or at least won't look back on it fondly). Certainly
you should go to the best program that you can, but you are also giving
up some of your prime years and you should keep this in mind.
What I Hope To Do After Graduation
Don't know. Teach? Work? Become a stable boy? That is too far down the
road.