MAA Lecture for Undergraduate Students

Nathaniel Dean

By Samantha Corvino
Undergraduate, Slippery Rock University

The 2009 Joint Mathematics meeting was the epitome of what I truly needed as a student: mathematical conference experience on a national level, an opportunity to connect with a network of fellow mathematicians, and the tools I will need to succeed in a mathematical career. Not only did I achieve this, but I was able to expose myself to new math concepts and problems that face contemporary mathematicians. In particular, Dr. Nathaniel Dean, professor at Texas State University - San Marcos, was able to present Some Elementary Problems that Remain Unsolved.

Dr. Dean's lecture, presented by the MAA, was geared for students, but as it was evident with not one seat open and people lining up against the walls, many graduates and PhD holders were eager to listen and learn as well. I soon learned why the lecture was highly desired and anticipated. Dr. Dean focused on problems and research of today's era that have either not been fully researched to draw conclusions, or simply could not and cannot be solved. He proposed ideas for further DNA research, proposed personal developments on a brick overhang problem, discussed the hardship of solving the classic jar of water problem, and even included a fun reasoning game, "Chomp". As an undergraduate student, I felt comfortable attending this lecture; I was able to fully understand the problem, the development of any solutions, and why there were difficulties in finding a solution. Maybe it was his ability to compare each problem to a real-life situation, or simply that he dealt with the technology glimpses were such an upbeat attitude; ultimately, I was highly intrigued and engaged on what he was discussing.

After the lecture was over, the student hospitality center invited students to a meet-and-greet with Dr. Dean. With a little less than a dozen students, we were able to sit down, introduce ourselves, and have a genuine conversation with our very approachable speaker. He encouraged students to ask questions and propose ideas regarding the questions discussed at his lecture. Most students were able to contribute intellectual ideas and questions that lasted a full half-hour. Before we knew it, our time had passed and we were left yearning and questing for more knowledge. If I got one thing out of attending his lecture, it was that Dr. Dean believes in the future of mathematics; he not only has high hopes, but he also inspires a keen curiosity in all of his students to achieve their full potential.