In mathematics, maybe more than in any other science, research is an activity
of the mind. The primary goal of the mathematician is to understand - to
discover essential ingredients of complex systems in order to render them
simple, to find order within apparent chaos, to draw analogies between
different structures, and to find connections between seemingly disparate
branches of mathematics and science. To make interesting new contributions
in the field of mathematics requires a healthy mix of creativity, experience
and hard work.
The day begins with the Number Theory lecture which meets Monday through
Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. The more experienced students, and most returning students, will
also attend advanced classes. In 2007, we offered
advanced seminars in
Abstract Algebra; Geometry and Symmetry; and Modular Forms.
Participants spend
most of the remainder of their time working independently or in small groups
on problem sets distributed at the end of each class meeting. The problems
will encourage students to design their own numerical experiments and to
employ their own powers of observation to discover mathematical patterns,
to formulate and test conjectures, and to justify their ideas by devising
their own mathematical proofs.
They continue to work on problem sets throughout the day (and night). Some may work in groups; others individually. Counselors review student problem sets daily and are always available to help guide students in the right direction.
Many first-year students also meet in small groups to work on exploration projects, guided by a counselor.
Returning students have an opportunity to work on research projects proposed by visiting mentors.
Dorm Life
Students experience real college dormitory living. It is an
excellent opportunity for high school students to experience what college life will be like. There are separate male and female living quarters, and
curfews as well as visiting rules do apply. All PROMYS students and their
counselors live on the same floors in the dorm. A counselor is usually
placed within close proximity to the three or four students that he/she is
supervising. There are laundry facilities in the dorm, so bring
some money for laundry and detergent. Meals are served in the
dining room in Towers during specified hours. The cafeteria
offers a range of hot and cold meals and always has a vegetarian option.
The Kosher menu is not available during the summer.
Other Activities
Every Saturday morning from 9:00 A.M. until noon, we reserve the gym for
volleyball and/or basketball for anyone who wants to participate. "Early
risers" have also been known to jog along the Charles River before morning
lecture. Some students bring their musical instruments with them and wish
to practice on a regular basis. The dorm has a single practice room with
a piano. In addition, a music card is available through the Music Department, for
a small fee, which allows summer term students to reserve a
room and schedule individual practice times.
Other special activities include an annual ultimate frisbee match against
MIT, as well as field trips to the MIT Museum and the Boston Museum of
Science. Additionally, counselors and faculty plan numerous activities that
vary from year to year and are organized according to demand. These may
range from talent shows to film festivals.
Find Out More
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