Q&A with Gilad Goulet
Why did you choose to attend the University of Mississippi?
I have four siblings, all of whom graduated from the University of Mississippi. They were all in their own disciplines (as different as engineering and art), yes, but nonetheless, I gleaned one thing from them all: the Ole Miss experience. Whatever you intend to pursue, there are people, places, and resources to explore and advance your interests. Whether it be academically inclined or not, the Ole Miss and Oxford community has a place for everyone. Though I first noticed this through my siblings’ experiences, I can now attest firsthand that it is true!
I have four siblings, all of whom graduated from the University of Mississippi. They were all in their own disciplines (as different as engineering and art), yes, but nonetheless, I gleaned one thing from them all: the Ole Miss experience. Whatever you intend to pursue, there are people, places, and resources to explore and advance your interests. Whether it be academically inclined or not, the Ole Miss and Oxford community has a place for everyone. Though I first noticed this through my siblings’ experiences, I can now attest firsthand that it is true!
What would you tell a high school student about your major? What is most important for them to know if they are interested in pursuing that field of study?
Mathematics is fundamental. At its core sits logical reasoning and argument formation. So, whether you would like to pursue pure mathematics in the future or not, the skills you learn whilst obtaining a mathematics degree are bound to be of use.
Mathematics is fundamental. At its core sits logical reasoning and argument formation. So, whether you would like to pursue pure mathematics in the future or not, the skills you learn whilst obtaining a mathematics degree are bound to be of use.
Why is your department a special place?
The mathematics department here at the University of Mississippi is rather small. Though it may not sound like it, that is a good thing. The small size of our department leads to much more intimate connections between other undergraduates as well as professors. It also means more opportunities for undergraduates that may not otherwise be possible, such as research. If you are keen enough, most professors in the department would be happy to work with you.
The mathematics department here at the University of Mississippi is rather small. Though it may not sound like it, that is a good thing. The small size of our department leads to much more intimate connections between other undergraduates as well as professors. It also means more opportunities for undergraduates that may not otherwise be possible, such as research. If you are keen enough, most professors in the department would be happy to work with you.
What professor or class has had the most impact on you?
I had a fantastic time in Dr. Lisi’s Calculus IV class. I must have made my enjoyment obvious as he emailed me inquiring as to whether I had ever considered getting a degree in mathematics. The encouragement and passion he brought to math through his teaching are a large part of why I decided to commit to a mathematics degree.
I had a fantastic time in Dr. Lisi’s Calculus IV class. I must have made my enjoyment obvious as he emailed me inquiring as to whether I had ever considered getting a degree in mathematics. The encouragement and passion he brought to math through his teaching are a large part of why I decided to commit to a mathematics degree.
What do you hope to do after graduation? What are your career goals/plans?
Though I am still not yet completely decided as to my next steps, I can likely see myself continuing my education and earning a PhD. Whether that takes me into academia or industry, I don’t know yet, but either way, I hope to have a career in which I get to solve new and exciting problems.
Though I am still not yet completely decided as to my next steps, I can likely see myself continuing my education and earning a PhD. Whether that takes me into academia or industry, I don’t know yet, but either way, I hope to have a career in which I get to solve new and exciting problems.
What is one thing you wish you knew as an incoming freshman that you’d tell your past self (about the general college experience)?
Don’t be afraid to get involved in whatever suits who you are! College can seem like a scary place, but you will be surprised at how many people are open and excited to meet new people. If you want to do research, reach out to a professor. If you are interested in that club, go to a meeting. Take advantage of the fact that you live on campus and your coursework is not yet too overbearing, and meet your lifelong friends!
Don’t be afraid to get involved in whatever suits who you are! College can seem like a scary place, but you will be surprised at how many people are open and excited to meet new people. If you want to do research, reach out to a professor. If you are interested in that club, go to a meeting. Take advantage of the fact that you live on campus and your coursework is not yet too overbearing, and meet your lifelong friends!
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