Two University of Mary students, Fiona Kelly and Thomas King, have been accepted into the Budapest Semesters in Mathematics program for the first time in the university’s history, according to an April 16 announcement. King will attend during the summer, while Kelly will participate in the fall.
The Budapest Semesters in Mathematics is a selective study-abroad program that brings together top undergraduate mathematics students from around the world. Each semester, about 60 students are chosen from North American colleges and universities. Dr. Andy Leinart, associate professor of mathematics at University of Mary, said: “It is extremely significant. This acceptance places students from our liberal arts and science programs on equal footing with those from major research universities worldwide.”
Hungary has a strong tradition in mathematics education and innovation. Students admitted to this program usually have high academic achievements. Both Kelly and King credit their early passion for math to influential teachers and family members who encouraged them to pursue challenging ideas.
King said: “I love learning math, and ever since I heard about this program, I knew it was something I wanted to do… Having spent so much time wondering if I would actually get in, it means a lot to have been accepted.” Kelly added: “I was struck by its logic and its worth, but most of all by its beauty… A good mathematical proof is just gorgeous.” She also credited her mother’s support for her interest in STEM fields.
Beyond academics, both students look forward to experiencing Hungarian culture during their studies abroad. King expressed excitement about exploring historic sites: “Having only seen something as old as 150 years, it is hard to comprehend how old that is,” he said.
University of Mary supports study abroad opportunities that enhance students’ global perspectives according to the official website. The university operates satellite locations across several states and maintains a campus in Rome according to the official website. It offers nearly 60 bachelor’s degrees along with graduate programs according to the official website, maintains affiliation with Benedictine Sisters of Annunciation Monastery according to the official website, seeks to cultivate servant leaders through its Christian framework according to the official website, and features a Year-Round Campus option for accelerated degree completion according to the official website.
Looking ahead, both Kelly and King plan further academic pursuits after their experience abroad. “I want to work on something that makes people excited to be alive and see it develop,” King said.
