Brockport Today

Ryan Dipaola

Why did you choose SUNY Brockport?

The College came to visit my school and they did one of those on the spot interviews. I really liked who I interviewed with and it was a great experience. I felt confident about getting into the school, it is not too far from my home and they had the program that I was interested in pursuing.

Why did you pursue a mathematics degree?

I was good at math in high school and I knew that I could do many different things with the degree.

What is your dream job after graduation?

My dream job to work in higher education. Working at a college in administration or a department, maybe in math. I am applying to Graduate school right now and Brockport is definitely one of my options I am considering.

Are you involved in any clubs or organizations on campus?

I worked for Brockport Student Government and in the Department of Mathematics. I currently grade papers and tutor for classes that I have taken. I get to work with a lot of the professors in the department.

Who is your favorite professor?

Dr. Pierangela Veneziani because she teaches her class in a way that people coming from multiple different perspectives can understand. We have students coming from the Department of Computing Sciences and other majors to take math courses and she always make sure everyone understands.

What has been your favorite course?

Mathematical modeling was offered by Dr. Veneziani. We took real life scenarios, abstracted them, turned them into math problems, and then used math to solve real life problems – it was really cool.

What are you working on for your senior thesis?

As a member of the Honors College, I am studying the use of mathematics in costume construction. I am interested in costume construction and I have already taken a few courses even though I am not a theatre minor. I have already learned how to sew, so my senior thesis is going to be documenting the mathematics I use while making a costume.

Is there any advice you want to give prospective mathematic majors?

Even if you have anxiety about math, the College so many resources for you, including the academic success center where there are tutors for specific math courses. Even if you don’t think you’re a math person, there are so many people here to help you succeed.

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