In this series, Elon College, the College of Arts and Sciences is shining the spotlight on distinguished members of the Class of 2021 from a wide array of disciplines.
Math isn’t scary.
That’s the message Madeline Gall ’21 plans to spread to high school students as she begins a teaching career this fall. She double-majored in mathematics with teacher licensure and statistics.
“I majored in mathematics with teacher licensure because I love math and I want to work to eliminate the fear of mathematics in all students,” she said. “Statistics is a nice complement, as I love how applicable statistics can be. It is a great way to show my future students the real-world applications of their course work.”
Gall is a member of Mu Sigma Rho statistics honor society, Pi Mu Epsilon mathematics honor society and the Kappa Delta Pi education honor society.
Tell us about your undergraduate research experience.
I completed research at a sports analytics Research Experience for Undergraduates at Carnegie Mellon University with Lecturer in Statistics Ryne Vankrevelen. My research was titled “Which Hockey League is the Strongest? Comparing the Different Hockey Leagues Across the World.” I was presented with this topic by an analyst who works for the Pittsburgh Penguins, and we worked together to rank every professional hockey league to prepare for the NHL draft.
What are you proudest of during your time at Elon?
I don’t know if I have one moment where I have been really proud of myself, rather I am proud of how far I have come during the past four years. I am really proud of myself for getting to know my professors and fellow classmates through my coursework here at Elon. I am proud of myself for continuously going to office hours and pushing myself to learn and understand the curriculum. Lastly, I am proud of the mathematician that I have become.
Did any particular professor make an impact on you?
One professor that I consider to be a mentor is Professor of Mathematics Todd Lee. Professor Lee is the most genuine and real professor I have had at Elon, and has always pushed me to be a better student and critical thinker. Professor Lee has given me advice on life and cracked jokes when I need them and when I don’t. My Elon experience would not be what it is without Professor Lee because he not only cared about me as a student but also helped me grow as a person.
What are your future plans?
After graduation I will be working as a secondary mathematics teacher at Apex High School in Wake County, North Carolina.
What advice would you give future Elon students?
My best advice is to not be afraid to be wrong. I have learned the most in the classrooms where I am comfortable being wrong. I know this is easier said than done but find your math buddies and get to know your professors! You will have more than enough support to accomplish all of your goals.
What’s your favorite Elon tradition?
My favorite Elon tradition is singing the fight song at any sporting event. I love supporting Elon by belting this song with my friends, even when we are losing!