Ateneo Mathematics Society on its Diamond Year

For sixty years, the Ateneo Mathematics Society (AMS) has served as a support system for all Ateneo Mathematics majors. AMS has since pledged to support and take care of its members and other Mathematics students. According to Miguel Yapan, AMS’ past president, the organization primarily strives to help people understand and recognize the worth of mathematics through various projects and initiatives that reflect their core values.

Mathematics Appreciation

The Ateneo Mathematics Society has made it its mission to give students an avenue to appreciate mathematics. The organization hosts numerous projects that would boost mathematics appreciation, including seminars and workshops like Mathcon and Mathventure. These events conduct workshops and feature talks by esteemed mathematicians and professionals, which offer students a glimpse into the real-world applications of mathematics.

Education

Education is at the heart of AMS. The organization goes beyond the traditional classroom learning set up as it offers tutorial services that cater to the needs of the students. AMS also organizes problem-solving enrichment programs and collaborates with state universities to further this advocacy.

Math Excellence

Lastly, maintaining the integrity of mathematics remains a key mission for AMS. The organization’s flagship program, Sipnayan, is established among high schools in Metro Manila for promoting mathematical excellence through an inter-school math competition.

This, however, did not come easy for AMS to push through, especially in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. Transitioning back to onsite projects has been a tough challenge as they are all relatively new to the concept. Moreover, AMS is not immune to the constant issue of member burnout. The difficult nature of mathematics as a course contributes to the shift in perspective when it comes to student organizations. It also adds to the pressure to excel and focus on extracurricular activities and internships, rather than organization involvement as grade inflation became an issue in recent years.

However, AMS recognizes these challenges and it remains committed to overcoming them with careful effort. The organization makes attempts to do so by hosting hangouts and tambay weeks to support their members’ well-being. Their tutorial services also provide support as they help students cope and manage with academic pressure. Most importantly, AMS prioritizes quality over quantity in all its initiatives.

Looking ahead, AMS aims to establish a stable culture not only for Mathematics majors but for the entire student body. It aspires to further enrich the reputation of Mathematics, as well as its versatility and expansiveness when it comes to careers, especially within the Ateneo community.

Learn more about AMS by visiting: ateneomathsociety.org

-

Text: Althea Mycka Ella BongPhotos: Ateneo Mathematics Society