Welcome to the Columbia Undergraduate Mathematical Modeling Workshop (CUMMW)!
The Columbia Undergraduate Math Modeling Workshop (CUMMW) is open to Columbia and Barnard undergraduate students with an interest in applying mathematics to real-world problems. Participants will explore various aspects of scientific research, including project design, data analysis, mathematical modeling, simulation, literature review, scientific writing, and teamwork.
Workshop Goals:
- Introduce interdisciplinary skills essential for research.
- Foster collaboration and teamwork.
- Strengthen oral and written communication skills.
Students from all majors and mathematical backgrounds are welcome to participate.
CUMMW serves as a stepping stone for involvement in prestigious modeling competition like the Mathematical/Interdisciplinary Contest in Modeling (MCM/ICM) and the Columbia Mathematical Modeling Contest (CMMC). Moreover, it acts as a preparation ground for CSUREMM, the mathematical modeling summer program offered annually by the Department of Mathematics.
The 2025 Spring session of CUMMW offers two tracks so you can tailor your experience to your goals and interests:
1. Basic Learning Track (Individual)
- For individuals who want to focus on learning the basics of mathematical modeling.
- Emphasizes foundational tools like programming, data analysis, and scientific writing.
- Work at your own pace, without the need to join a team.
2. Math Modeling Team Training Track
- For teams of three who want to prepare for mathematical modeling contests.
- Focuses on advanced modeling skills, collaboration, and professional writing.
- Teams that complete the preparation stage will be assigned mentors to guide their progress.
Take advantage of this opportunity to broaden your horizons, refine your skills, and prepare for exciting mathematical challenges at CUMMW!
The Spring 2025 session of CUMMW workshop takes place runs January 13 to March 14, 2025.
To register, please follow this link.
The registration form will stay open through January, with participants added biweekly on Mondays and Thursdays.
If you plan to join a team, we encourage you to sign up early, as the preparation stage must be completed by January 26.
Frequently Asked Questions
I haven’t taken many math or computing courses. Can I still participate?
Yes! The workshop includes introductory sessions on mathematical and statistical modeling to help you get started.
Are there any prerequisites for participating?
No, there are no prerequisites.
I’m not a math major. Can I join?
Absolutely! The workshop is interdisciplinary, and students from all majors are welcome to participate.
I don’t know any programming. Is that okay?
Yes, that’s completely fine. We’ll provide tutorials and resources to help you learn the basics of programming.
What happens during the workshop sessions? Will we learn new mathematical models?
The workshop is hands-on. You’ll work on a problem selected by your team and learn modeling techniques relevant to it. Mentors will guide you through the process, and you’ll receive resources to explore these techniques further on your own. Sessions will also include support for computation, simulation tools, and scientific writing practices.
Do I have to participate in the workshop to compete in the MCM/ICM?
No, workshop participation is optional. However, only teams that complete the workshop training will be eligible for sponsorship to participate in the MCM/ICM competition.
Where can I find more information about the workshop and competition?
Once you sign up for the workshop, you’ll be added to the Courseworks page, where detailed instructions and guidelines will be available. For more information about the MCM/ICM competition, see here.
Do I need a team to join the workshop or competition?
You don’t need a team to join the workshop. However, for the MCM/ICM competition, a team of three is required. If you don’t already have a team, the workshop is a great opportunity to meet potential teammates and form a group.
How and when do I sign up for the competition?
Teams that successfully complete the workshop training will be registered for the competition. Please refer to the Contest Rules, Registration, and Instructions page for more details.
Other Questions?
Please contact George Dragomir or Ivan Corwin.
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