I am really excited about offering Mathematical Beauty in Rome again for summer of 2010. Previous offerings were in 2008 and 2009, and they were absolutely amazing experiences for the sixteen undergrads in each class as well as myself. We are now planning for 2010, for which I hope you will consider applying.

    One of the reasons I offer this seminar is to give you, the math-engineering minded student, a chance to study abroad and explore a subject that will especially appeal to your technical interests. How did the Romans use geometry to design the Colosseum? What engineering principles are behind the Pantheon's large dome? How does an aqueduct work? Why does the Tower of Pisa lean, and why is it still standing? How is perspective achieved in Raphael's School of Athens? We explore these and many other questions, discussing theory in class and then actually visiting these sites to see the theory come to life!

    In addition to what you learn in the seminar, you will be immersed in the great historical city of Rome - the Eternal City - and experience a rich culture that has deeply influenced all of western civilization. Over the course of more than two millenia, Rome has produced so much of the world's greatest architecture and art, a good portion of which we can still see today. Rome is also a city of music - classical, opera, modern - with concerts held in beautiful courtyards, churches, piazzas, parks, and even amongst ancient ruins. And of course, there's the food! You have not experienced great pizza, pasta, espresso, and gelato until you've been to Rome (and I'll tell you where to find them).

   You might wonder whether you have the right background to take this seminar. The only prerequisite is basic first-year math (Math 10A or 20A). All majors are welcome. Majors of past students included structural engineering, mathematics, mechanical engineering, computer science and engineering, economics, chemical engineering, cognitive science, biochemistry, etc. Despite having different majors, these students all shared a curiosity and passion to understand the great engineering achievements of ancient Rome, and a deep desire to appreciate the mathematical beauty that underlies Rome's classical architecture. Does this sound like you? If so, this seminar is for you!

    I promise you that this will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience. This is a unique opportunity: it is the only math/engineering-oriented seminar in the UCSD Global Seminar series, and in fact, the only one of its kind nationally or internationally. I encourage you to inquire if you have any questions (send me email at pasquale@cs.ucsd.edu), and come to one of the information sessions (see Announcements) to find out more.

Joe Pasquale

Professor