Image
Think about math workshop for students belonging to underrepresented genders
Students belonging to underrepresented genders in math discussing careers in math at the Think About Math workshop in 2024

Workshop overview

This workshop is designed to ignite enthusiasm for mathematics and its applications, demonstrating that math is fun, relevant, and leads to exciting careers. TAM participants will meet with University of Waterloo Math alumni and current students, and learn about their career paths. They will explore various topics in applied math and learn about famous mathematicians along the way.

CEMC stories

Our contests, programs, tools, and resources have a significant impact on students and educators worldwide. 

Workshop details

The TAM workshop welcomes anyone who identifies as a girl.  We also welcome gender minorities who feel comfortable in a space that centres the experiences of women.*
Acknowledging that diversity goes beyond gender, we strongly encourage applications from girls who identify as Indigenous, Black, or as a member of a racialized group.  
Applicants must be in Grade 8 in the 2025-26 school year and entering Grade 9 in Fall 2026. They must be currently enrolled in a Canadian high school or middle school.
The CEMC invites students of all mathematical abilities to apply to TAM. Our goal is to create a friendly and collaborative environment in which students can explore fun mathematics. Therefore, we will not consider grades or contest scores when admitting students to this camp.  

*Why this audience?

Mathematics and computer science are powerful tools, and diversity among mathematicians and computer scientists increases the potential for positive impact. One of the CEMC’s primary objectives is to promote greater diversity in mathematics and computer science.  

See recent statistics on representation of women and gender minorities at the University of Waterloo in Math and Computer Science

Participants will work with a mentor to explore two topics in applied math that are not currently part of the high school curriculum. They will also meet with Waterloo Math alumni and current students to learn about their study and career path. Participants will get to tour the campus and attend a session on succeeding in high school mathematics. Finally, they will have the opportunity to research the life of a famous mathematician. In addition to these activities, each day, students will also have the opportunity to socialize and build community through activities such as sports and trivia.

Click here to view a tentative schedule for the workshop.

Dates: Monday, August 24 to Wednesday, August 26, 2026

Location: University of Waterloo

Timings:  

  • This camp takes place from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on each day.
  • Drop off time: 8:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m.
  • Pick up time: 5:15 p.m. 
  • Interested students can fill out the TAM online application form once applications open in January.
  • Based on these submissions, the CEMC will contact applicants about their selection status in May. From the applications, approximately 40 students are selected to register for and attend the workshop. If accepted, applicants will then be required to fill out a registration form with more information about logistics and pay the applicable fees to attend the workshop. 

Think About Math! is a completely free program offered by the CEMC. 

For any inquiries or questions, please feel free to contact us at cemc.events@uwaterloo.ca 

News and Updates

Jen Nelson, new CEMC Director
New CEMC Director

After 20 years as CEMC Director, Ian VanderBurgh will be stepping down at the end of June to begin an appointment as Associate Vice-President...