What Happens at Math Camp...
September 3, 2010More than 100 new students arrived at the Harris School early last week to brush up their math skills before starting the fall semester on September 22. Each year, Math Camp covers everything from basic algebra to advanced calculus in preparation for core courses like statistics, economics, and others that require quantitative-heavy policy analysis. In honor of the three-week seminar, three recent grads reflect on their own Math Camp experiences, how it aided their studies, and shaped their careers.
Adam Freeman, MPP’10
Program Analyst
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General
I was only able to attend the second two weeks of math camp—the calculus section. My math background was strong, but despite my advanced high school courses and math minor in undergrad, it had been four years since I had done any advanced math. By the end, I was definitely better prepared for my course work (especially statistics).
It also offered an opportunity to meet my classmates before the quarter started. Having a good study group is really important at the Harris School, and math camp affords you time to figure out who you work well with before the core curriculum starts.
Freeman conducts evaluative studies on HHS programs (primarily Medicare and Medicaid), which are ultimately presented to Congress, program staff, and the general public.
Sohair Omar, MPP’10
Policy Analyst
State of Illinois Governor’s Office
My math skills were a bit rusty. Since I passed AP Calculus in high school, I didn’t have to take math in undergrad. I thought it would be a review (because I considered myself a pro), but I ended up learning a lot more about the fundamentals that I missed or forgot in my prior training. At the Harris School, we're taught that policy is driven by numbers. Therefore, policy process begins and ends with math. People can argue with you when you present them claims, but they can't argue when you present them with numbers. That's why Math Camp was so foundational to my public policy training.
Omar provides research and analysis on economic development and transportation programs to senior staff in the Governor’s office.
Aaron Winn, MPP’09
Research Analyst
Harvard University / Ideas42
When I first told my wife that I had to go to Math Camp before school started she laughed. If only it was a joke. It was hard, but I learned a lot. Even though I studied economics in undergrad, I would have never gotten through my first year of core classes without it. I realize now that Math Camp was symbolic of my experience at both the Harris School and the University of Chicago: Classes were challenging, but worth it. That knowledge and work ethic has been essential to my success post-graduation.
Winn examines the influence of income instability and social safety nets on the lives of low-income families through the lens of behavioral economics.
Contact Information
Communications Office
Phone: 773-702-7681
