Advanced mathematics and physics students have been preparing for the F = MA exam and the American Invitational Mathematics Examination (AIME), two upcoming academic competitions that allow these students to exhibit their physics and mathematics skills, respectively. For sophomore Eugene Wang, these exams present opportunities for him to show off what he has learned in class. However, the preparation process for these exams is challenging.
“Part of it was being signed up for Physics 1 in school.” Wang said. “I took the class and I’ve done decently well in other Olympiads in the past, so I just felt like this was another opportunity for me to give something new a try, and try to explore something I haven’t really been able to explore that much before.”
The F = MA exam, held on February 12, presents a different challenge for students like Wang, because the test not only covers equations, but also the application of abstract concepts and being able to show an understanding with the content beyond the math. However, Wang believes that apart from his own studying, the way the Physics 1 course is taught has allowed him to familiarize himself with the complex topics, and the diversity of content is actually an advantage.
“The test is obviously challenging.” Wang said. “What I like about the exam is that a lot of the concepts are abstract. It’s not just like plugging numbers into equations and stuff. So it’s good to give myself an opportunity to think. And I think that going through the process as well lets me gain better problem-solving skills.”
Wang is also preparing for the AIME, an invite-only, 15-question, 3-hour math competition for top performers on the AMC 10/12. The AIME is being held on two separate dates to allow for all qualified students to take it; AIME I on Feb. 5, and AIME II on Feb. 11.
“The AIME is quite challenging.” Wang said. “Every answer is an integer between 1 and 999. In general, it’s just a lot of the questions, and they’re much more difficult than the AMCs, which are multiple choice. And since it’s short answer this time, there’s not much of a luck aspect to it. So it’s just grinding through problems.”
Despite the challenges, Wang is determined to perform to the best of his abilities, as stellar performance on the AIME could lead to an invitation to the United States of America Math Olympiad (USAMO), and possible college application advantages. Either way, Wang is grateful for the opportunity even if he does not qualify any farther.
“A lot of people would say that if you qualify for the next run, which would be the USAMO, then that would be beneficial for college applications.” Wang said. “I think in general, it’s just being able to try something new and just like the learning experience that comes with it, I think it’s going to help me be better at physics, whether that be in school or just in general, getting better.”
