Learning Outcomes:
1: Identify own strengths and develop areas for growth
2: Demonstrate that challenges have been undertaken, developing new skills in the process
4: Show commitment to and perseverance in CAS experiences
As a leader of the Math Club, I have had the opportunity to apply my passion for mathematics while developing leadership and organizational skills. I have always enjoyed math and frequently helped my classmates with concepts or questions they found challenging. However, leading a club with members of varying math levels and interests presented a new challenge that required me to refine my communication and engagement strategies.
From my previous experience leading the ASL Club, where we introduced new ASL words in weekly meetings, I learned how to maintain engagement in a learning environment. I applied this knowledge to Math Club by ensuring meetings were interactive and catered to the needs of the members. We organized events such as Pi Day celebrations and a high school math competition, which encouraged participation and enthusiasm for mathematics beyond the classroom setting.
Additionally, I led SAT Math preparation sessions for club members who were in the process of learning how to solve SAT questions effectively within a limited time frame. As a senior, I had experience practicing SAT questions, which allowed me to guide members through problem-solving strategies. During these sessions, we provided a set of questions, allotted time for members to attempt them, and then collectively reviewed the challenging ones. Members were encouraged to raise their hands and ask questions whenever they faced difficulties, fostering a supportive and interactive learning environment.
To ensure that our sessions met the members’ needs, the club activities were flexibly adjusted. If members preferred to focus on their math subjects from school, we adapted the sessions to accommodate their requests, allowing them to review topics and seek help with specific problems. Moreover, we sought to support ESL students who faced language barriers in understanding math, particularly middle school students. By providing clear explanations and ensuring a welcoming environment for questions, we aimed to make math more accessible and less intimidating for these students.
Through this experience, I developed a greater ability to manage diverse learning needs and maintain engagement in a structured yet flexible manner. Leading Math Club challenged me to refine my leadership and problem-solving skills while deepening my commitment to creating an inclusive and supportive learning environment. Despite the challenges, I remained committed to fostering a collaborative space where students could develop confidence and enthusiasm for mathematics.