Meet a Mathematician! - Dr. Robin Wilson

Summary

Robin Wilson, a professor at Loyola Marymount University, shares his journey from being an average math student to a passionate mathematics educator and researcher. Initially drawn to science, Wilson's interest in math was ignited through a professional development program at UC Berkeley, leading him to major in math. His research in low-dimensional topology focuses on the study of shapes and their properties under deformation. Wilson also reflects on being one of the few black students in his math classes and the importance of mentorship, highlighting the influence of Dwayne Cooper and the Mathematicians of African Diaspora website. He emphasizes the value of asking questions and collaborative learning in math.

Takeaways

• 🎓 Robin Wilson is a professor in the Department of Mathematics at Loyola Marymount University.
• 👨‍🎓 Initially, he wasn't particularly good at math but had an interest in science, which led him to decide to teach mathematics.
• 🏫 He was part of a professional development program at UC Berkeley, which was one of the first programs designed for equity in math education.
• 🔍 His interest in low-dimensional topology was sparked by the opportunity to do research, which led him to pursue graduate studies.
• 🎓 The area of math he's interested in, low-dimensional topology, involves the study of shapes that can be preserved when deformed.
• 🤔 He explains knots as one-dimensional objects in low-dimensional topology, which can be distinguished by the space around them.
• 👨‍🏫 His proudest accomplishment is the graduation of his students, especially those who have overcome significant challenges.
• 👩‍🏫 His mother played a crucial role in advocating for him to take higher-level math classes, which influenced his academic trajectory.
• 🌟 Dwayne Cooper was a significant role model for him, demonstrating the possibility of balancing math research and education.
• 📚 The website 'Mathematicians of African Diaspora' was influential in expanding his knowledge about black mathematicians and their contributions.
• 🤝 He emphasizes the importance of asking questions, working together, and finding community in the study of mathematics.

Q & A

What is Robin Wilson's current position?

Robin Wilson is a professor in the Department of Mathematics at Loyola Marymount University.

How did Robin Wilson's initial attitude towards mathematics develop during his early years?

Initially, Robin Wilson was not particularly good at or interested in mathematics. It was not a focus for him, and he was more inclined towards science.

What influenced Robin Wilson to decide on teaching mathematics?

Robin Wilson's decision to teach mathematics was influenced by his participation in a professional development program at UC Berkeley, which was designed for equity in math education.

What is the area of mathematics that Robin Wilson is interested in?

Robin Wilson is interested in low-dimensional topology, which involves the study of shapes that can be preserved when deformed.

Can you describe the concept of 'knots' in low-dimensional topology as mentioned by Robin Wilson?

In low-dimensional topology, 'knots' are one-dimensional objects that can be deformed without breaking. They are studied to understand the space around them and how it differs when the object is knotted compared to when it is not.

What challenges did Robin Wilson face as a student in his math classes?

Robin Wilson was often the only black student in most of his math classes, which had an impact on his identity in the math classroom.

How did Robin Wilson's mother influence his academic path in mathematics?

Robin Wilson's mother was actively involved in advocating for him to take higher-level math courses, ensuring he was on track to take calculus by his senior year of high school.

What accomplishment is Robin Wilson most proud of in his career?

Robin Wilson is most proud of his students' graduations, particularly those who struggle but eventually succeed, as well as those who go on to different successful career paths.

Who was a significant role model for Robin Wilson during his academic journey?

Dwayne Cooper was a significant role model for Robin Wilson. He had success in the graduate program at Berkeley and made a big impact on many students.

What advice does Robin Wilson give to his students about learning mathematics?

Robin Wilson advises his students on the importance of asking questions and working together, emphasizing that math is more fun with friends and that collaboration can lead to less frustration and further progress.