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Ever wondered what a mathematician actually does? You might picture someone scribbling equations on a chalkboard, lost in a world of numbers. But what if I told you that some mathematicians are out there, dressed as pirates, explaining complex theories with inflatables and plasticine?
Meet Dr. Katie Steckles, a self-proclaimed 'maths communicator' who defies stereotypes and proves that a career in mathematics can be anything but boring.
Katie's journey, as you'll discover, is a testament to the power of embracing your passions, even when they involve caves, trampolines, and yes, even pirates.
Finding the Fun in Maths: It's Not Just About the A's
From a young age, Katie was a self-proclaimed 'awful nerd,' always curious and eager to learn. While she enjoyed building things with Lego and Meccano, her love for maths truly blossomed when her cousin introduced her to the world of mathematical puzzles.
"It wasn't that I wanted to be him, it was just that the puzzles were cool! I wanted to learn more about the puzzles."
This fascination led her to pursue a maths degree, but not for the reasons you might think. She wasn't fixated on a specific career path. Instead, she saw maths as a springboard to a world of possibilities.
Even a slightly less-than-perfect grade in her A-levels couldn't deter her. (Don't worry, we won't tell her university that you know her secret!)
University Adventures: Where Pirates and Problem-Solving Collide
University wasn't just about equations and theorems for Katie. It was about embracing new experiences and finding your tribe. She joined the trampolining club, the caving club, and even became president of the pirate society!
"We mainly dressed up and went on pub crawls...and raised money for charity. Because that sort of feels piratey, right?"
Jokes aside, Katie's university years highlight a crucial point: surrounding yourself with people who share your passions can be incredibly enriching.
Beyond the Textbook: Discovering the World of Maths Communication
While Katie enjoyed her foray into the world of academic research during her PhD, she realized that her true calling lay elsewhere: maths communication.
Attending a conference called 'How to Talk Maths in Public' was a turning point. It opened her eyes to a community of individuals who shared her passion for making maths accessible and engaging.
"It was really eye-opening to see that there is such a thing as the maths communication community...it's actually a job!"
And just like that, Katie embarked on a new adventure, one that would see her explaining complex mathematical concepts in theaters, art galleries, and even on YouTube.
The Third Corner of Maths: The Unsung Hero of Communication
Throughout her career, Katie has worn many hats: presenter, writer, workshop facilitator, and even part-time university lecturer. But there's one role she finds particularly satisfying: the organizer, the behind-the-scenes maestro who makes sure everything runs smoothly.
"I just like making things happen. I find logistics immensely satisfying."
Katie's willingness to tackle the less glamorous aspects of maths communication is a testament to her dedication and her understanding that even the smallest details can make a big difference.
Katie's Advice for Aspiring Maths Communicators: Embrace the Challenge, Ditch the Assumptions
For those inspired by Katie's journey and eager to share their own love for maths, she offers this invaluable advice:
"Always remember that the person that you're talking to doesn't have the same experience of maths as you do...don't kind of make assumptions about that."
In other words, avoid labeling things as 'easy' or 'hard.' Instead, focus on fostering a sense of curiosity and encouraging your audience to embrace the challenge of learning something new.
The Journey Continues: Exploring New Horizons in Maths Communication
So, what's next for this multi-talented mathematician? While she admits to resisting the urge to plan too far ahead, Katie is excited about the potential of online workshops and the opportunity to conduct research into effective maths communication methods.
One thing's for sure: Katie Steckles' journey is far from over. And as she continues to break down barriers and inspire others with her infectious enthusiasm, one can't help but feel that the world of mathematics is a much more exciting and accessible place thanks to her.
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