Benjamin Thorn
Class Level
Graduated
Degree and Major
Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics
Hometown
Kelseyville, CA
Biography
I am a first-year Rogers Scholar and a senior majoring in Mathematics. After receiving my degree, I plan on pursuing a doctorate in mathematics and becoming a college-level math teacher. In high school, I was the Senior Class Rally Representative and a member of Student Council. I was part of the symphonic band from fifth grade through my senior year of high school. I also took honors classes and was part of the California Scholarship Federation. In the summer of 2002, I took flying lessons and soloed an airplane several times out of John Wayne Airport, located in Santa Ana, California. Currently, I have more than 34 hours of flight time logged. I graduated from high school in 2003 and entered beautiful CSU Stanislaus as a freshman that fall, becoming the first person in my family to attend college. I have been placed on the Dean's List several times. I am currently the Vice President of CSU Stanislaus' Math Club.
Why did you choose CSU Stanislaus?
Upon visiting CSU Stanislaus, I was taken in by its spectacularly beautiful campus. CSU Stanislaus was also only a few hours away from my home in Lake County, California. Turlock seemed to be a very clean, new, and fast-growing town. Being located in the center of California, CSUS is only a few hours away from most of the major attractions in California. After attending CSU Stanislaus for more than three years, I have found that the Mathematics Department, as well as other departments on campus, are very well respected and provide the finest quality education.
What advice would you give a prospective student?
Take the advice of others when choosing a school but ultimately make the final decision based on what you want since you will be going there for several years of your life. Work hard and do not procrastinate, yet do not overload your schedule with too much work. You should join a club and meet as many people as you can. Take advantage of the services that the University has to offer, such as the fitness, health, and tutoring centers which are all free to students. Ultimately, take school seriously, yet enjoy your college experience and make it one that you will never forget.
What has been your favorite academic or student life experience so far?
I am currently on an intramural dodgeball team and it is a blast. We have ridiculously funny uniforms and we just play to have fun and make fools of ourselves every time. We get to meet many people and just have a great time.
What is your career objective?
Teach mathematics at a university.
What clubs, sports, and activities have you participated in?
I am currently the vice president of CSU Stanislaus' Math Club. I have participated in a couple of intramural sports teams. I greatly enjoy working out because it is a great place to make friends and push each other towards a common goal.
Who is your most influential personal and/or University mentor?
Dr. Brian Jue and Dr. Thomas Abram are my favorite professors. They are both brilliant in mathematics and they are excellent teachers. Whenever I have a question about anything they are always more than willing to help me out. They are also hilarious; they turn their classes into very fun learning experiences. They are two of the friendliest and best teachers whom I have ever had.
E-mail Address: benmthorn76@hotmail.com
