My love for mathematics began in elementary school, when my teacher first introduced me to the “game” of Olympiad math. What started as curiosity soon became a passion: I was drawn to the elegance of numbers, the creativity of problem-solving, and the thrill of cracking questions that seemed impossible. Carrying this passion into high school, I joined the provincial Olympiad team for the national competition, where I spent three months immersed in intensive training.
During this time, Olympiad math not only deepened my skills but also connected me with teachers, seniors, and friends who shared my passion. Our team lived together in the dorms – playing sports, sharing meals, and studying side by side. I remember evenings spent pestering a senior to grasp a new theory, or late-night debates that stretched for hours until we cracked a stubborn problem. Immersed in this culture of curiosity and inquiry, I found a community that shared my joy in discovery. And let’s not forget our beloved coach, whose insights and collection of quotes made every lesson unforgettable.
One of my favorite quotes of his is: “If you can’t prove it, don’t use it.” He constantly reminded us that theorems are not just formulas; they are ideas that give you the tools to dissect problems. Understanding their essence allows you to use them flexibly and combine them to solve the most challenging problems. I realized this philosophy can also be true in life: achieving something meaningful requires grasping the root of the matter. His lessons have not only guided me in my mathematical endeavors but also in how I approach the world, driving me to dig in every aspect of life in order to create values.
