“We started by diving into linear algebra, a foundational subject for understanding and working with AI. We covered important topics such as matrices, vectors, and eigenvalues, and explored how these concepts are applied in machine learning algorithms. This solid grounding in linear algebra is essential for grasping more advanced AI topics,” Bill explains.

During his first week, Seth had an “incredible” time. He met and socialized with wide variety of students, plus learned how to navigate the St. Louis metro and shuttle services.

Alexei Kadyrov talks about his online experience at Awesome Math where he has been studying Algebra 2.5. During his virtual course, Alexei attended lectures and problem sessions, followed by challenging homework assignments, and tests.

“So far my journey at UChicago has exceeded my expectations in every way. In my friend group alone, there are people from New York, Ann Arbor, California, Britain, Hong Kong, and Turkey. Aside from my academic experience, I have learned so much about other parts of the world and cultures through these people,” Evan says.

Jordan quickly settled in, connected with a diverse variety of students, and learned unique concepts he had never experienced before. “The opportunity to meet so many new people from diverse places and backgrounds has been incredibly enriching,” Jordan says.

Zoya says that she has been “captivated by the subject matter,” and has been really enjoying the lab work sessions.

During his first week, Ahmik enjoyed exploring the campus and learning interesting facts about the university.

During her first week of the course, Sydney spent time reading and annotating passages from the Kenyon Review. “The pieces we’re reading range from essays and poems to short stories,” Sydney explains.

Tanya Arun reports on her virtual course “Foundations of Psychological Research” from the University of Chicago. Tanya spent her first week learning about the sub-fields of psychology, animal models, and research methods.

After settling in her dorm, Addison was happy to meet up with GFF students Zoya Chowdhury and Francis Bu who are also attending MMSS. She also met her roommate and explored the campus at MMSS.

Liam has been adjusting to dorm life and learning music theory. He says that his first week has been filled with “exciting and interesting moments.”

During her first week, Myra settled into her dorm room, connected with students from around the world, and made friends with students who are attending other courses as they shared their individual stories and experiences.

Francis Bu reports on his experiences at the Michigan Math and Science Scholars program, where he is studying “Surface Chemistry.” During the first week, Francis learned, through a wide variety of coursework and lectures, where his passion lies.

Madeline Dieters has hit the ground running at the Texas Academy of Figurative Art, Summer Teen Program. Her first week was spent working on an illustration in graphite and a still life in oil.

Ryan Dai reports on his experience at the University of Chicago Supper Immersion Program where he is studying “Pathways in Economics.” Ryan spent his first week getting settled and adjusting to the academic environment.

Robert Wigfall reports on his experience at Washington University’s High School Summer Scholars Arts & Sciences Program, where he is studying Biomedical Ethics. His first week was spent “making meaningful connections” with his classmates and exploring the St. Louis area.

Throughout the summer, sixteen outstanding Southern Illinois high school students will attend highly selective enrichment programs across the country in STEM and the Fine Arts through scholarships from the Garwin Family Foundation (GFF).