Junior Earns Top Honors at WVU Math Competition

Now in its fifth year, the competition welcomed students in grades 7-12 from across the region who share a passion for mathematics. Participants completed a rigorous two-hour written exam featuring challenging problems aligned with standard mathematics curriculum topics. Separate divisions were offered for students in grades 7-9 and grades 10-12.

“We truly enjoyed spending the day with so many talented young mathematicians from across West Virginia and beyond,” said Charis Tsikkou, associate director for undergraduate programs in the School of Mathematical and Data Sciences at West Virginia University. “Your enthusiasm, hard work, and love for mathematics are what make this event special, and we are grateful to all students, parents, and teachers who helped make this year’s competition such a success.”

Winners received monetary prizes, with first place earning $300.

The regional victory adds to an already impressive year for Yuwen. Earlier this spring, she qualified for the prestigious United States of America Mathematical Olympiad (USAMO), one of the nation’s premier high school mathematics competitions. She also earned top-50 honors in the Pennsylvania Math League competition.

In addition to her mathematics achievements, Yuwen was recognized as an AP Scholar with Distinction – the highest AP Scholar honor awarded by the College Board – for earning an average AP exam score of at least 3.5 and scores of 3 or higher on five or more exams.

At Upper St. Clair High School, Yuwen serves as co-president of the Math League and was also involved in the school’s spring musical, “Mamma Mia!”