Irina Kalashnikova, Ph.D. Student
Math, UPenn
Why I Chose Stanford
While pursuing my Bachelors and Masters in pure math, I realized I
wanted to do something more interdisciplinary and to study various
engineering applications of mathematics. I applied to close to a dozen
Ph.D. programs in applied/computational math but the choice boiled down
to Stanford's iCME and Princeton's PACM (Program in Applied &
Computational Math). I chose iCME for its breadth and the diversity of
the research done by the affiliated faculty. Having had limited
exposure to engineering applications, I wanted a program where I would
have the chance to explore various areas before settling on a research
topic. I felt the structure of the iCME program encouraged this type of
academic exploration. I was not sure if I would have the same
opportunity at a smaller university like Princeton, where the faculty
interests are less varied.
My Background
I was in a combined Bachelors/Masters program in pure Mathematics at the
University of Pennsylvania, graduating with both degrees in May 2006. I
also did a minor in Actuarial Science as an undergrad.
What Do You Work On
Since I'm a first year student, I'm still in the process of choosing a
research area. My research rotation during the fall quarter is on
finite element analysis.
What's Great About Studying Here
I was and continue to be impressed with the amount of collaboration that
goes on. People at iCME are genuinely interested in helping each other
learn, whether it be for a particular class homework or project, or just
for the sake of imparting knowledge they may have. The faculty are also
readily available, as are the more senior students. The various social
ICME events enable you to get to know other people in the program and
make you feel like you're part of the ICME community.
What Advice Would You Give Prospective Students
In terms of choosing a grad school, definitely visit the places you are
considering and talk with the students. You get a much better sense of
whether or not a particular university is the place for you when you
actually go there and meet some of the people in person. As for
preparing for grad school, I would say try to take classes in analysis
and linear algebra if you still have time. It's helpful to have a
strong background in both for the core courses.
What I Hope To Do After Graduation
Graduation's still a long way away for me, but right now I am looking at a career in academia.