I am an Erin and Peggy Kleinfeld Scholar and a Ph.D. candidate in Mathematics at the University of Iowa. My research is focused on the applications of dynamical systems, computational neuroscience, synchronization and networks. My thesis advisor is Dr. Zahra Aminzare. I am also a Teaching Assistant for the Mathematics Department. 

 

I am a first generation college and university student but I have always been passionate about teaching and academic research as well as studying mathematics. This passion started while I was in Junior Secondary School and continued through my Senior Secondary and university education. While I am a first generation university student from a family that lives in a small, developing country in West Africa, I have been fortunate to be supported in my efforts to pursue my academic work. My hardwork earned me a Gambia Rising Scholarship for my undergraduate studies at The University of The Gambia. Before starting my Ph.D. program in Mathematics at the University of Iowa, I completed my Master’s degree in Mathematics at Ohio University and then taught Mathematics for a year at the University of Rio Grande and Rio Grande Community College. I plan to pursue a career in mathematical research and teaching.

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During my undergraduate studies, I was fortunate to engage in a full range of classes which solidified my interest in Mathematics. While a sophomore at The University of The Gambia, I won a competitive St. Mary’s College of Maryland Peace Fellowship for a semester as an exchange student. In my senior year of college, I was employed to teach mathematics at an institution of Elementary School Teachers’ preparation college. I constantly maintained high standards in my overall performance throughout my undergraduate education and eventually graduated with a BSc. Mathematics (Suma Cum Laude) and became my class valedictorian. Immediately after graduating, I was recruited to the Department of Mathematics, University of the Gambia as a Graduate Assistant. I love teaching and I have enjoyed every bit of my teaching experience.