Praise for the Queen's Mathematics & Engineering program

In this video: Mike Brannan (Professor Pure Mathematics at Waterloo)

In this video: Curtis McDonald (PhD Student at Yale University)

In this video: Alexander Condello (Director of Algorithms, D-Wave Quantum)

Michael McCreesh (Sci '17)

Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering Ph.D. Program at University of California San Diego

The Mathematics and Engineering program provides a unique combination of mathematical knowledge and technical skills that sets up its’ graduates for success in many areas. The rigorous mathematical background developed in the core second- and third-year courses allow for a deeper understanding of the engineering courses taken outside the department. In addition, the content of the program’s third- and fourth-year courses in areas such as control theory or information theory easily match or exceed equivalent courses at the graduate level at many other universities, providing students with a foundation not usually acquired at the undergraduate level.

"The Apple Math program provided me with opportunities that would not have been available coming from any other program. "
Michael McCreesh (Sci '17)

Following graduation, the Apple Math program provided me with opportunities that would not have been available coming from any other program. Both due to the reputation of the program, and advice from the always helpful faculty, I was afforded opportunities with faculty at other universities that would not have been available otherwise. Further, once continuing my education at the University of California San Diego, the foundational knowledge in mathematics provided me with a significant leg up in preparation for the graduate level courses. I would highly recommend the Mathematics and Engineering program whether you have aspirations in academia or industry, as in either case you will come out incredibly well prepared.

 

Curtis McDonald (Sci '17)

Statistics and Data Science PhD program at Yale University

The applied mathematics and engineering program at Queen’s offers a unique education experience that produces problems solvers with the technical and theoretical knowledge to engage in modern problems in mathematics and engineering. The selection of advanced technical courses and a rigorous approach to problem solving from an engineering perspective allows students to understand not just which tools to use to solve a problem, but also how these tools work on a deeper level. By a student’s third and fourth year they are taking courses equivalent to many first or second year graduate courses at other institutions, providing a great head start and solid foundation for those pursing future studies.

"There is great collaboration with other students on research projects, and a chance to learn and grow together"
Curtis McDonald (Sci '17)

I would also like to note the incredible community and faculty of the department. There is great collaboration with other students on research projects, and a chance to learn and grow together. I have many fond memories working with other students on projects in my time. Additionally, the faculty make great effort to be engaged in student development and make themselves available for student questions and ideas. I am currently in my third year in the Statistics and Data Science PhD program at Yale University. When I first arrived here, the faculty where surprised at the level of knowledge I possessed as a new student, and I attribute this to my time at Queen’s. I rely almost daily on the concepts I learned early on in my studies at Queens, and this solid foundation has allowed me to purse my goals in research. For anyone interested in engaging with the deeper theory behind engineering and applied math problems, I would highly recommend the applied mathematics and engineering program at Queen’s.

 

Becca Bonham-Carter

MSc Student in Mathematics at the University of British Columbia, Robotics and ML Engineering Specialist at Mission Control Space Services

The Mathematics and Engineering program gave me the skills and opportunities to pursue interesting careers in both industry and academia, and ignited many new and exciting interests that I never knew existed. The emphasis on mastering engineering fundamentals through developing a strong base of mathematical knowledge imparts unique skills and creates a program which is challenging, but also thoroughly fulfilling. Through my time in the Math & Eng program, I learned how to think rigorously and more deeply understand complex engineering problems by leveraging the power that mathematical abstraction has make connections clear and turn problems into recognizable structures which can be soundly tackled with matching mathematical tools. I found that what I learned from the MTHE courses, the ways of thinking as well as the math itself, allowed me to more easily grasp concepts in my electrical engineering and physics courses, and more easily communicate engineering solutions in my work.

"The emphasis on mastering engineering fundamentals through developing a strong base of mathematical knowledge imparts unique skills and creates a program which is challenging"
Becca Bonham-Carter

Throughout my time in the program and since graduation, what I learned in the Math & Eng program has given me the opportunity to work in a variety of fields including human brain modeling, R&D for rovers for planetary exploration, machine learning for autonomous vehicles, systems & control theory, and developmental biology. The MTHE professors were amazing teachers and academic supervisors, and my cohort shared a strong sense of community. The engagement and support I received as student in the program encouraged me to seek out further studies in Mathematics and positions in industry involving a high-level of mathematical understanding. My experience in the Math & Eng program went far beyond my expectations from when I entered the program as a (mostly clueless) second-year student.

 

George Weekes

George Weekes (Sci '12)

Canadian Pension Plan Investment Board, Private Investments Analyst in Toronto

Apple Math's integration of mathematics and engineering provides a unique approach to education at the undergraduate level. Throughout my years in the program, a strong foundation in mathematics was mirrored with a broad range of engineering applications, allowing me to develop a fundamental skill set which lends itself to diverse applications.

"A strong foundation in mathematics was mirrored with a broad range of engineering applications."
George Weekes (Sci '12)

Whether continuing on to careers in academia or industry, Apple Math graduates are prepared with, not only the technical background required, but also critical thinking and problem solving skills which differentiates them from their peers. Personally, the true value of the program comes from its proven ability to prepare its graduates for a broad range of career paths. Having specialized in the mechanical stream, I have successfully applied what I learned in Apple Math to both a summer job in computer programming and my recent full-time position in finance. Not only did I graduate with a strong competency in my chosen discipline, but also the ability to build on this knowledge in any setting of work or study.

 

Zachary Kroeze

Zachary Kroeze (Sci '12)

MASc, Systems Control, University of Toronto

Apple was one of the reasons I have enjoyed my Queen's experience so much. I had to opportunity to develop quantitative skills in mathematics that will not only last me my whole life, but which also transfer to such a wide variety of subjects. Being in the M6 option, these math skills enabled me to tackle my mechanical engineering courses with ease. More surprisingly, they have also helped me transfer into an Electrical Engineering Master's program having very little knowledge of electrical engineering fundamentals. This is a testament to how mathematics plays a key role in the understanding of engineering fundamentals across all disciplines.

"These math skills enabled me to tackle my mechanical engineering courses with ease."
Zachary Kroeze (Sci '12)

Although this undergraduate program is a very demanding one, the small class sizes and excellent professors make the journey an enjoyable one. You will develop strong friendships with your classmates, and have the opportunity to volunteer within the Apple program. Like any program, you get what you put in to it, but this program has the opportunity to give you more.

 

Matthew Gilbert

Matthew Gilbert (Sci '11)

Master's student, Quantitative Finance Program, University of Waterloo

I am currently enrolled in my first semester at the University of Waterloo in the Quantitative Finance program. The program involves a combination of courses in probability, statistics and finance. Students in my program come from a wide range of backgrounds. Given this wide range of backgrounds, I feel that Applied Mathematics was the ideal undergraduate degree to prepare me for this program.

"My fourth year thesis project in Region Tracking Over a Sequence of Images taught me invaluable skills in MATLAB."
Matthew Gilbert (Sci '11)

In terms of the theoretical background in mathematics required for this program, I feel well prepared for my coursework by my studies in Applied Math. With respect to my technical skills, my fourth year thesis project in Region Tracking Over a Sequence of Images taught me invaluable skills in MATLAB which prepared me for the technical components of the program. Maybe the most important concept Apple Math taught me was the idea of time management, persistence and independent study.

 

Cameron McCormick

Cameron McCormick (Sci '11)

Data Systems Group, Energy Profiles Limited

I work for a small energy consulting company in Etobicoke, ON called Energy Profiles Limited. We provide impartial energy consulting services, and the focus of our services is independent and objective analysis. Our clients are large energy consumers, including commercial, retail, industrial, and multi-residential building owners and managers. My role with the company is as a member of the Data Systems Group. I among involved primarily with data analysis and computer programming. So, although I may not be using control theory or Lagrangian mechanics on they job, I am certainly using all of the skills I developed while completing my undergrad in applied math.

"Perhaps the two most important skills that I picked up are those of persistence and completeness."
Cameron McCormick (Sci '11)

Perhaps the two most important skills that I picked up are those of persistence and completeness (in the sense of they rigour of a proof, not in the sense of normed vector spaces!), and these skills have application everywhere in a career in industry. The Applied Mathematics program is likely the best place to pick up these skills. Those long nights in the cave do pay off, and I am very glad that I completed my undergrad in Applied Math!

 

Lauren Bates

Lauren Bates (Sci '10)

Analyst, Graduate Program at Direct Energy

There is no other undergraduate program that will provide you with the challenging education, world-class faculty, and opportunities found in the Apple Math program at Queen's. As an undergrad, I took several grad level courses, was a TA for 1st year math courses, wrote a thesis on facial recognition, and organized social events as the Apple Executive President. Even though I chose the mechanical option, I found myself prepared for a career in many industries. I am currently working as a software engineer in a rotational leadership development program. My background wasn't computer science, but Apple Math really leveraged me as a potential candidate because it showed I was able to learn advanced concepts quickly, solve problems, and think analytically.

 

 

Tobias Barton

Tobias Barton (Sci '10)

Mechanical Designer, J.L. Richards & Associates Ltd, Ottawa

Apple Math has made learning everything else so much easier for me. It's hard not to know what you're doing when you understand everything on such a fundamental level. No other Engineering program at Queen's could have given me this kind of training and preparation.

"No other Engineering program at Queen's could have given me this kind of training and preparation."
Tobias Barton (Sci '10)

 

 

Andrew Brennan

Andrew Brennan (Sci '10)

Ph.D. student in Bioengineering Harvard University

Apple Math is a unique blend of rigorous mathematics and practical engineering. Having done a Masters in mathematics at Queen's, I can say that the mathematical foundation is sufficient for a dedicated graduate to launch a career in mathematics. Similarly, the engineering is sufficient for a career in engineering. There is also great flexibility that derives from this rigorous/practical combination, and it is this power that I am now harnessing. I have recently switched fields to pursue a PhD in the neuroscience of human movement. The mind is often modeled as a control system, making the engineering and math skills invaluable as I learn the biological basis for movement control. Apple Math has proved to be a solid foundation for this program despite the fact that I have very little background in biology.

 

Andrew Cerisano

Andrew Cerisano (Sci '11)

Software Development Engineer in Test, Microsoft

Through all of the high level math courses and projects Apple Math has made me who I am today by forcing me to learn how to do complicated things extremely quickly, which is one of the most important skills in today's fast-paced work environment. Being able to adapt and learn new and exciting ideas is infinitely more important than excellence at previous year's work. Another crucial skill needed in today's work environment is the ability to manage your time efficiently. Apple Math has taught me to prioritize properly and make the best use of the time available to me. Acquiring skills such as these on top of the math and engineering coursework you learn, as well as the recognition of the program made Apple Math the perfect choice for me.

 

Jeff Calder

Jeff Calder (Sci '08)

Ph.D. student in Applied Mathematics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor

The Apple Math program gives you a solid understanding of the mathematical principles that are at the foundation of many of the models used in engineering. It gave me the skills to succeed as an electrical engineer working in industry and as a PhD student in a mathematics department at a top US school. There is no way I could have achieved all of this by going into any other Engineering program at Queen's.

"(Apple Math) gave me the skills to succeed as an electrical engineer."
Jeff Calder (Sci '08)

 

 

Dustin Freeman

Dustin Freeman (Sci '08)

Ph.D. student in Computer Science, University of Toronto

Dustin Freeman graduated from Apple Math Mech in 2008. After lots of soul-searching, he decided to apply his math skills to make futuristic computer interfaces that bring people together rather than split them apart. Apple Math gave him the confidence and ability to understand and rapidly prototype new vision algorithms and gesture detection techniques. In the summer of 2010, Dustin was at HP Research India working on gesture computers for people who have never seen a mouse; in 2011 he is working with Microsoft Research on the Kinect platform. In 2012, he continues his PhD work at the University of Toronto on creating gestural interfaces for theatre performers.

 

Jen Elgar

Jen Elgar (Sci '10)

Geophysical Software Developer, Earth Signal Processing Ltd.

The Apple Math program at Queen's has all of the factors that I think are important in a top-notch undergraduate degree. It is full of interesting challenges, the professors are world class, and it fully prepares you for the challenges that you will face upon graduation. I am currently working as a geophysical software developer in Calgary. I did not study geophysics in University, but in Apple Math we covered the mathematical principles that are at the base of the subject. Knowing the fundamentals has given me a huge edge. I was able to learn the geophysics behind my job quickly, which allowed me to contribute to my company in a short period of time.

"The Apple Math program has all of the factors that I think are important in a top-notch undergraduate degree. It is full of interesting challenges, the professors are world class, and it fully prepares you for the challenges that you will face upon graduation."
Jen Elgar (Sci '10)

 

Abdallah Elraghy

Abdallah Elraghy (Sci '10)

MASc student, University of Toronto Institute for Aerospace Studies

I am doing an MASc in Aerospace Engineering, and I am focusing on commercial aircraft shape design and optimization for my research. Queen's Apple Math has given me an excellent foundation in both Mathematics and Engineering for working in this area. No other Engineering program at Queen's would have given me this kind of preparation.

"Apple Math has given me an excellent foundation in both Mathematics and Engineering for working in this area. No other Engineering program at Queen's would have given me this kind of preparation."
Abdallah Elraghy (Sci '10)

 

Adrian Green

Adrian Green (Sci '10)

MSc student, Electrical & Computer Engineering, University of Toronto

Mathematics and Engineering gave me advanced technical knowledge in practical and interesting areas, which is now indispensable to me as a graduate student at the University of Toronto in Electrical and Computer Engineering. Apple was definitely the right choice for me, and provided me with many opportunities.

"(MTHE) gave me advanced technical knowledge in practical and interesting areas, which is now indispensable to me as a graduate student."
Adrian Green (Sci '10)

 

Nima Poulad

Nima Poulad (Sci '11)

Software Engineer, Microsoft

I currently work for Microsoft as a software engineer in the Graphics Division of the Windows Operating System in Seattle, United States. I can tell you how apple math has contributed to my success. As you can imagine, any career in the graphics field would involve doing a great deal of complex and sophisticated mathematics. Apple math helped me build a very strong background in math, to the point that I'm enabled me to perform strongly at my job. It was difficult for my managers here at Microsoft to believe an undergraduate student can possibly have such indepth understanding of mathematical concepts. They normally hire only Master and PhD students but ever since they learned about Apple math, they started to rethink their recruitment plan for the future. I hope you also choose Apple math, and discover your full potential!

"(MTHE) gave me advanced technical knowledge in practical and interesting areas, which is now indispensable to me as a graduate student."
Nima Poulad (Sci '11)

Further accolades for the Queen's Mathematics & Engineering program

 

Mireille Broucke
(Associate Professor, Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Toronto)
Some of my best former graduate students were from the Queens Apple program. These students, generally, are characterized by a stronger facility to relate the exigencies of practical problems with abstract, mathematical methods. This must be among the most powerful reasoning skills that a future designer of engineering systems can have.


Dong Eui Chang
(Associate Professor, Department of Applied Mathematics, Faculty of Mathematics, University of Waterloo)
I had a graduate student from Queen's Apple Math. I was very impressed by the analytical and computational skills he had acquired in the Apple Math program.


Rachid Deriche
(Inria Research Director, Head of the Athena Project-Team, Inria Sophia Antipolis-Méditerranée, France)
Over the past few years, a number of undergraduates of the Queen's Mathematics and Engineering program have been joining my team for summer internships at Inria Sophia Antipolis-Méditerranée (France). They have all been very impressive with their solid understanding of the mathematics at the heart of my research areas in computer vision, medical image processing, and computational brain imaging, and have all done truly exceptional work, leading to important contributions published in some of the most selective journals and conferences of my research areas. The Apple Math program is definitely an excellent and solid engineering program that I highly recommend to any undergraduate student interested in acquiring a rigorous mathematical training and being optimally prepared for graduate and PhD studies in numerous areas of engineering and applied mathematics, including areas such as computer vision and biomedical image processing.

Peter Doerschuck
(Professor, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Cornell University)
I recently saw two of the 4th year engineering projects that came out of the "Queen's Mathematics and Engineering" program. I am very impressed with the mathematical sophistication of the work. I think the level is a year or two beyond the level of typical good students from US electrical engineering programs and on a par with the level of good students from outstanding Indian and Chinese institutions which, like the "Queen's Mathematics and Engineering" program, really focus on developing the mathematical sophistication of the students. I am confident that there are many areas of graduate study which will find this level of preparation very attractive.


Manfredi Maggiore
(Associate Professor, Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Toronto)
The Mathematics and Engineering program at Queen's has developed a reputation of excellence in the panorama of Canadian Engineering education. At the University of Toronto, we greatly value graduate applicants from this program. The depth of their background in Mathematics and Engineering gives them an advantage in research over many of their peers coming from top institutions in Canada and worldwide.


Roland Speicher
(Professor, Department of Mathematics, Saarland University, Germany)
Last year I had a summer student from the Queen's Apple Math program, who made substantial contributions to a project on theoretical and practical aspects of random matrices. I was quite impressed by his background preparation and the strong combination of theoretical and practical skills. I can recommend the Apple Math program as a top choice to everybody who wants to get some rigorous theoretical foundation for his engineering interests.

Steven Waslander
(Sci '98, Assistant Professor, Department of Mechanical and Mechatronics Engineering, University of Waterloo)
I have benefitted greatly throughout my career from the foundation in mathematics that I received from the Math & Engineering program. It has helped me in understanding the fundamentals of my research area, autonomous mobile robotics, and many interesting research problems I have looked at relied on knowledge from core courses in calculus, real analysis, abstract algebra and differential equations. In fact, I prize the same basis in the graduate students I recruit, and look forward to all applications from the Math & Engineering program, as I know they have the tools needed to succeed in academia.


Janie Astephen-Wilson
(Sci '00, Assistant Professor, School of Biomedical Engineering, Dalhousie University)
Apple Math is an excellent program that uniquely prepares students for various fields/career paths that require creative thinking and problem-solving. After graduating in 2000, I went on to graduate school in biomedical engineering (MASc and later a PhD) and my Apple Math degree gave me a solid background to dive into the field. I continue to use the applied mathematics foundation I gained in the program to running my own human dynamics laboratory and research team as a professor in the School of Biomedical Engineering at Dalhousie University. Mathematical signals are evident in all physical phenomena, and the ability to understand complex signals associated with medical conditions and the human body's response to disease and treatment have allowed me to contribute to our understanding of debilitating diseases, such as joint arthritis. For this reason, I also am always interested in meeting and interviewing Apple Math students who might be interested in graduate studies or research work in my laboratory.


Anthony Yezzi
(Professor, Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology)
I had the pleasure of collaborating over the past two years with a recent graduate of the Queen's Mathematics and Engineering program and was extremely impressed with his strong combination of both theoretical and practical/applied skills. To be more specific, he developed analytically and formally proved the mathematical properties of a number of image processing tools, and he quickly and adeptly implemented, tested, and validated them with his own numerical codes. My own research area in the mathematical aspects of computer vision and shape optimization requires a significant amount of mathematical and numerical preparation by new PhD students who usually spend their first two years gaining this necessary background before becoming truly productive with original and publishable contributions. Instead, a recent graduate of the Queen's Mathematics and Engineering program was already productive from the outset of our collaboration while only in the middle of his Master's studies, and this collaboration has already lead to multiple journal, workshop, and conference papers before he even began his current PhD studies!