How did you manage to accomplish so many remarkable feats during your time at NUS?
Most of the time I was just guided by the urge to learn more Mathematics. Once I saw, in my first year, how rich and deep this subject is, I had a strong desire to continue discovering more about it. That was what led me to my first Undergraduate Research Opportunity Programme (UROP) project, and each one led to the next. At the later stage of my studies (i.e., Year 3-4), some of the things I chose to do was for building a competitive profile for graduate school applications (e.g. the research programme I did at Williams College).
I believe I was able to do well because I was curious and was highly motivated. I was also rather self-disciplined and had a strong conviction to personal development. During my time in college, I focused mainly on things that would lead to the most personal growth, or things that I am genuinely passionate about. These include taking courses that are substantial, taking reading/research projects and serving as EXCO in student groups.
As a woman in a predominantly male field like mathematics, did you face any challenges? If so, how did you overcome these challenges?
Yes. In my cohort, the gender ratio among pure math majors is extremely skewed. It was challenging to establish or join study groups with all male students.
I feel that it is naturally easier for us to establish working relationships with people of the same gender. I would say if NUS had a network of female Math students or faculty that can help connect female students with each other, that would be very helpful. I would be very happy to render my assistance as Alumni if there is interest in establishing such a network among current students.
Who were the key individuals who supported and guided you throughout your four-year journey at the university?
Prof Zhang Lei was my supervisor for my first UROP reading project. This project enhanced my understanding of number theory and complex analysis which had shaped my mathematical taste and interest.
Prof Gan Wee Teck was my supervisor for my second UROP project and Honours Year Project (HYP). He connected me with his former students and other Professors, who also helped me a lot. Prof Gan was instrumental in supporting and guiding my studies in Mathematics at NUS.
Prof Chin Chee Whye, Prof Bao Huanchen, Prof Sun Rongfeng, Prof Dinh Tien Cuong, Prof Zhu Chengbo, Dr Jonathon Teo, Dr Wang Fei, and Prof Yao Yao are other faculty members who have helped and guided me in some way.
What advice would you give to your juniors who aspire to follow in your footsteps?
- Participate in class actively and show your passion in the subject through active thinking and hard work.
- Ask for advice from lecturers or supervisors on how you can take your learning to the next level. Be prepared to introduce your background to them and ask specific questions.
- Seek out peers with similar aspirations and be study buddies with them.
- Be open-minded towards what you learn and your future directions.
Xinyu is the winner of the Leong Teng Kiang Memorial Prize in Mathematics, Sugar Industry of Singapore Prize, Tan Teck Chwee Prize, and Special Programme in Maths. She would be pursuing her passion in Pure Mathematics as a PhD student at Harvard University in the United States.