LAURA SHINES BRIGHT AT EUROPEAN GIRLS’ MATHEMATICS OLYMPIAD

Year 10 student Laura has made her mark on the international mathematics stage at the 2023 European Girls' Mathematics Olympiad (EGMO) in Portorož, Slovenia. Laura not only claimed a gold medal at the prestigious event but achieved a perfect score, ranking equal first. She was the youngest competitor in the world to achieve this remarkable feat.

Laura’s selection for the Australian EGMO team followed a rigorous process through the Australian Maths Trust’s (AMT) Olympiad Program. Laura was elated after her selection was announced earlier this year. ‘Very surprised and excited, and also very nervous,' she said when asked about her reaction to making the team.

‘I was nervous because I'd never been to any international competition before, nor had I ever been on a flight halfway around the world!’ Despite her nerves, Laura embraced the challenge, joining students from 55 countries on this exciting adventure.

The Australian team equalled its best result in the competition, ranking third overall behind China and the United States.

‘I am very happy that [the students’] months of hard work, creativity and persistence have paid off,’ said Nathan Ford, CEO of the Australian Maths Trust.

Outside of competing, Laura enjoyed getting to know her team and other students from around the world, and exploring Portoroz, including the ‘absolutely amazing’ ice-cream.

‘The scavenger hunt was really fun - we went around the city and did interesting puzzles and challenges. I also really enjoyed the laser tag, despite not being very accurate,’ said Laura.

When her perfect result was announced, Laura was shocked. ‘Surprised would not even begin to cover it. It was also rather funny because I don't think I was checking the results at the time, so I just got a lot of messages from my friends and family.’

Looking ahead, Laura's calendar of mathematics events is not slowing down. While she eagerly awaits upcoming competitions such as the Australian

Mathematics Competitions (AMC) and the Australian Intermediate Mathematics Olympiad (AIMO), she is most excited for the next AMT December camp. ‘It's one of the only times I can meet other Maths Olympiad people face-to-face,’ she explained.

We congratulate Laura on her remarkable achievement and wish her the very best as she continues to do what she does well in maths.