Students Win Top Honors in Math Modeling Challenge
By using differential equations to address real-world questions, six undergraduate students from the University of Florida College of Liberal Arts and Sciences earned top honors at an international math modeling challenge.
The SIMIODE Challenge Using Differential Equations Modeling VI (SCUDEM VI), held in the fall of 2021, tasked students with solving “challenge problems” by creating a mathematical model. The competitors then presented their solutions to judges through 10-minute videos.
This year, the UF representatives were among 317 students competing as part of 106 different teams. Both UF teams’ solutions were deemed “Outstanding,” the highest distinction awarded in the challenge.
In one team, students examined the risks and benefits encountered by birds who steal the hair of living animals to build their nests. The following students were recognized for their work:
- Adam Kocsis, a freshman studying computer science with a minor in mathematics
- Alaguvalliappan Thiagarajan, a freshman studying mathematics
- Daniel Warshofsky, a senior studying astrophysics and mathematics
The second UF team explored the best possible timing for a cyclist to carry out a “bike throw,” a maneuver that racers use to gain a burst of speed at the end of a race. The team comprised these members:
- Greeshma Avaradi, a sophomore studying mathematics and statistics with a minor in actuarial science
- Alisha Bhatia, a freshman studying mathematics
- Ben Sherwin, a sophomore studying mathematics, physics and astrophysics
The students received preliminary assistance from graduate student mentor Shasha Gao and faculty coach Tracy Stepien, assistant professor of mathematics.
Congratulations to all of the UF students who were recognized at SCUDEM VI.
