Maria discovered North Central College while searching online for actuarial science programs. But once she started classes, she found a new passion in pure mathematics. “As I took more math-based classes, I realized I liked them more than actuarial science and added a major in math.”

She quickly delved into opportunities in mathematics. In the summer following her sophomore year, she collaborated with a mathematics professor in research that used mathematical models to investigate the behavior of the virus that causes chickenpox and shingles.

Her junior year, she was honored as a Goldwater Scholar, the highest national undergraduate award for achievement in mathematics, science and engineering. She plans to pursue graduate studies and a Ph.D. in mathematics and teach at the college level.

“I loved all my experiences and am glad I chose to come to North Central.”